We know from previous Netwomen blog posts that in most technology companies, women are sparsely represented and women of colour are even more rare. This is the case for all industries, especially as you move up to the higher positions. McKinsey states that only 28% of people in senior management roles are women and a mere 19% of the C-suite is female. Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields in technology, with global spending increasing by 12-15 % year-over-year. In addition, this sector has a huge talent gap needing about 3.5 million more people to be able to work optimally.

Women only make up 24% of Cybersecurity professionals. However, they are responsible for some of the most crucial work in this field, from founding security companies to setting corporate and government policies, pioneering DEI initiatives, and representing their companies in C-suites, on Boards and global security organisations.

What is Cyber Security?

The Uk Government website defines Cyber security as how individuals and organisations reduce the risk of cyber attack. Cyber security’s core function is to protect the devices we all use (smartphones, laptops, tablets and computers), and the services we access ( both online and at work) from theft or damage. It’s also about preventing unauthorised access to the vast amounts of personal and private information we store on these devices, and online.

Cyber security is so critical because our smartphones, computers and the internet are now such a fundamental part of modern life. It is now more important than ever to take steps that can prevent cyber criminals getting hold of our accounts, data, and devices. 

We think that by celebrating and uplifting the women making an impact in the Cybersecurity sector within Tech, can demonstrate to women everywhere that they have an option to travel this path to leadership and success in this exciting and expanding field. Whilst doing this, we can move towards better equity and inspire even more incredible women like these to excel in the field while simultaneously supplying Cybersecurity with the diverse talent it needs to succeed!

Also, just recently, registration has opened for the CyberFirst Girls Competition 2023. The annual competition is run by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and aims to introduce girls aged 12 and 13 to cyber security, with the ultimate goal of increasing diversity in the industry. 

Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon, CEO of Stemettes, has said:

“The gender gap in technology is holding all of us back. In cyber, this gap is important to fill as we need to keep folks safe and secure as technology becomes more important”

Spread the word about this competition to help get young girls involved in this growing sector!

Without further ado, here are some women we wish to highlight. These women are inspirational and would be great to follow on LinkedIn so that you can follow and support their motivational work.

Dr. Mona Lisa Pinkney

Job Title: CISSP, CISM, CISA, PMP, Senior Site Leader, Atlanta Technology Center, Global Technology, North America Technology, Nike

Experience: 25 years in the Cybersecurity and Technology fields.

Mona is currently working at Nike where she has helped to build the Global Atlanta Technology Center, working to define the vision and strategy of the project for the organisation. She is also the co-founder of Nike’s Black Employees in Technology Network, which works to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion through mentorship and sponsorship of underrepresented groups.

Amazing work Mona!

Here is her LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-mona-lisa-pinkney-cissp-cism-cisa-pmp-8b661213a 

Beverley Alderson

Job Title: senior cyber broker at Aon

Experience: over 20 years

Throughout Beverley’s career she has mentored and sponsored many women who have gone on to have successful careers in the cyber market after her custodianship and is a pioneer of early adoption of cyber insurance and cyber security principles.

Outstanding Beverley!

Beverley’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/beverley-alderson-5609aa42

Gal Helemski

Job Title: Co-Founder & CTO/CPO, PlainID

Experience: over 20 years of developing innovative solutions to cybersecurity problems.

Gal is responsible for strategy, product development, and evangelism for PlainID, which has positioned itself as a leader in Identity Access Management and providing businesses and teams with simple and intuitive means to control their authorization processes. Gal was also named one of the “Top 25 Women Leaders in Cybersecurity of 2021” by The Software Report.

Well Done Gal!

Here is her LinkedIn for you to follow: linkedin.com/in/gal-helemski-b9542231

If anything peaks your interest about this sector, you should get involved in cybersecurity. There is tons of untapped potential in this industry and employers are actively looking for many more employees. The tech sector needs your diverse perspectives and fresh ideas!

Join Netwomen today where we connect these types of opportunities for you and elevate ambitious women across the globe with our 3 monthly events and supportive community.

https://www.netwomen.co/memberships/