AGC names new Director of Communications

I am pleased to announce that Dawn Po Quimque has been appointed as the Director of Communications for the Artisanal Gold Council (AGC).

For the past three years, Dawn has excelled as a Communications Specialist for the planetGOLD Philippines project. Her ability to translate complex technical concepts, such as mercury-free processing, supply chain due diligence, and community formalization, into engaging and accessible narratives has significantly contributed to the project’s success. Under her leadership, our campaigns have amplified local voices, increased project visibility within the planetGOLD global network, and highlighted the real-world impact of responsible artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM).

In her new role, Dawn will:

• Lead AGC’s global communications strategy, enhancing our brand and narrative as a leader in the professionalization of ASGM and promoting mercury-free, environmentally responsible practices.
• Expand and energize our digital presence across web platforms, social media, and multimedia storytelling.
• Support communications efforts across planetGOLD country teams, including those in Zambia and Senegal, ensuring consistent, high-quality outputs that showcase project milestones.
• Strengthen stakeholder engagement by providing timely and impactful updates to donors, governments, supply chain actors, civil society partners, and, most importantly, artisanal mining communities.
• Offer communications support to AGC projects in Colombia and Guyana.

Dawn will report directly to me regarding AGC-wide communications and branding while continuing her work with AGC Philippines under the leadership of Country Manager Abigail Ocate.

Please join me in congratulating Dawn on this well-deserved promotion. I look forward to our continued collaboration as we strive to make artisanal gold mining safer, more equitable, and better integrated into global responsible supply chains.

For inquiries or to get in touch, Dawn may be reached at dpoquimque@artisanalgold.org or via Viber/WhatsApp at +63 917 358 4589.  

Finally, I’d like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Ryan Painter, whose leadership as Director of Communications during AGC’s recent transition brought energy and innovative solutions to our branding and outreach. All the best in your new adventures Ryan.

Dawn's official first day will be July 1, 2025.

Warmly,

Rene Roger TissotExecutive DirectorArtisanal Gold Council