The Most Inspiring Women in Cyber Awards have been a beacon of recognition for outstanding women in the cybersecurity industry for the past five years. From newcomers to seasoned professionals, the awards celebrate women at every level who have made significant contributions to the industry. Each nominee is a testament to the talent and dedication that thrives within the cybersecurity sector.
As nominations open for this year’s awards, some of the esteemed winners from 2024 shared their experiences and accomplishments since receiving this prestigious recognition. Lisa Ventura, the Founder of Cyber Security Unity, has been hard at work developing her platform to unite the industry through collaboration. She is also gearing up to launch initiatives for neurodiversity and AI under the umbrella of Cyber Security Unity. Lisa has also secured a book deal with Kogan Page Publishers to release a book on AI and Cyber Security in February 2026. She has been actively engaged in speaking engagements, publications, and advocacy campaigns to promote cybersecurity careers.
Dr. Andrea Cullen, Co-Founder of CAPSLOCK Education Ltd, has focused on expanding their business and engaging in B2B growth within the sector. She has also been actively participating in events to serve as a role model for aspiring professionals in the cybersecurity field. Zinet Kemal, Cloud Security Engineer at Best Buy, has been dedicated to empowering the next generation in cybersecurity. She has launched new initiatives for online safety for children, published cybersecurity-themed children’s books, and won multiple awards.
Rosie Anderson, Head of Strategic Solutions at Th4ts3cur1ty.Company, has ventured into public speaking engagements to raise awareness about cybersecurity and inspire the next generation of talent. She has spoken at various events, including prestigious conferences like Defcon. Hazel McPherson, an esteemed CISO, has been instrumental in driving initiatives such as BSides Bristol, networking events for women, and involvement in industry policy collaborations. She has also been recognized with several awards and accolades for her contributions to the cybersecurity community.
For these exceptional women, winning the Most Inspiring Women in Cyber Award was a validation of their hard work and dedication to the industry. It symbolized recognition for their achievements and served as a platform to inspire others to pursue careers in cybersecurity. The award reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for inclusivity and diversity in the field, as well as serving as role models for future generations of cybersecurity professionals.
As nominations for the 2025 Most Inspiring Women in Cyber Awards are now open, the cybersecurity community is encouraged to put forward deserving candidates for recognition. The awards are sponsored by leading organizations in the industry and supported by community partners committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in cybersecurity. Nominations close on January 22, 2025, and individuals can submit their nominations through the provided link.
In conclusion, the Most Inspiring Women in Cyber Awards continue to shine a spotlight on the extraordinary contributions of women in the cybersecurity industry. The winners from previous years serve as inspirations for aspiring professionals and advocates for diversity in the field. Their accomplishments reflect the ongoing progress and innovation within the cybersecurity sector, driven by talented and passionate individuals dedicated to making a difference.