Cybersecurity is still a male-dominated field, with ISC2 estimating in April 2024 that the percentage of women in the industry is roughly only 20-25%. Likewise, the report indicated that pay disparities continue to exist, particularly for women of colour working in the field.
“This International Women in Cyber Day, it’s important to consider the barriers to entry for women in the industry,” says Camellia Chan, CEO and Co-founder, Flexxon. “Whilst a lot has been achieved to help girls and women forge a career in the sector, there’s still more to do.”
September 1st 2024 marks IWCD. The initiative is designed to champion the achievements of women in the cybersecurity industry, whilst raising awareness about the challenges women face in the field.
Advocating for diverse talent
IWCD seeks to call attention to the variation of skills women bring to the cybersecurity sector, in addition to acknowledging more work needs to be done to make the industry more inclusive.
As technology evolves rapidly, cybersecurity remains a critical field that protects our digital lives. However, the journey to securing our cyber world has not always been inclusive, particularly for women. Women in Cyber Day is an essential observance that highlights the achievements, challenges, and vital role women play in cybersecurity.
At MissDotAfrica, we are committed to fostering diversity and empowering women to excel in technology and cybersecurity. Today, we honor the women who are overcoming obstacles, safeguarding our digital networks, and shaping the future of cybersecurity.
Women in cybersecurity bring unique perspectives and problem-solving approaches that are invaluable to the field. Their diverse insights contribute significantly to understanding the complexities of cyber threats and developing comprehensive security solutions. From ethical hackers to security analysts and chief information security officers (CISOs), women are making significant contributions and leading efforts to protect our digital infrastructure.
Challenges Facing Women in Cybersecurity
Despite the progress, women in cybersecurity still face significant challenges. Gender bias, pay disparities, and a lack of mentorship opportunities are just a few of the obstacles that women must overcome to succeed in this field. Many women report feeling isolated in their roles, often being one of the few or only women on their teams.
These challenges highlight the need for supportive environments, mentorship programs, and policies that promote diversity and inclusion. At MissDotAfrica, we are dedicated to providing resources and support to women aspiring to enter or advance in cybersecurity. We believe that by addressing these barriers, we can pave the way for more women to excel and lead in this critical industry.
Recognizing Women in Cyber Day
Women in Cyber Day is a celebration of the outstanding achievements of women in cybersecurity. It is a day to recognize their contributions, raise awareness about the importance of gender diversity in cyber, and inspire the next generation of women to pursue careers in this field.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Women in Cybersecurity
The future of cybersecurity is promising, and women have a crucial role to play in shaping it. As we celebrate Women in Cyber Day, let us commit to fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. By empowering women in cybersecurity, we can build stronger, more resilient systems and ensure a safer digital world for everyone.
At MissDotAfrica, we are proud to support women in tech and cybersecurity. Together, we can continue to dismantle barriers, challenge stereotypes, and inspire a new generation of women leaders.
Source: MissDotAfrica
