The “Most Inspiring Women in Cyber Awards” organized by Eskenzi PR in media partnership with the IT Security Guru aim to highlight the exceptional women in the cybersecurity industry. The selected winners are acknowledged as Ones to Watch in 2024 by a distinguished panel of judges. In this feature, one of the winners will be introduced through a Q&A format, where the nominee shares insights in their own words with minor edits for clarity and additional commentary from their nominator.
In the year 2024, the sponsorship for the awards came from BT, Think Cybersecurity Ltd., and Plexal, with support from partners like Eskenzi PR, Assured, and Women in Cybersecurity UK & Ireland Affiliate.
The recipient of the award is the founder of a cybersecurity startup, TisOva, dedicated to protecting students from online scams. The individual’s role involves a wide range of responsibilities such as conducting customer research, engaging with stakeholders, nurturing partnerships, participating in accelerator programs, securing investments, leading a team of engineers, and developing marketing strategies to build brand awareness and attract customers.
Furthermore, the recipient is actively involved in industry events, conferences, and mentorship programs to stay updated on industry trends and forge strategic partnerships. Beyond their role as a founder, they are committed to advancing cybersecurity through mentorship, advocacy, and public speaking engagements, aiming to drive positive change within the industry and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
The journey towards a career in cybersecurity for the recipient began with inspiration from a TV series and led to pursuing relevant degrees and working in cybercrime investigations and cybersecurity roles. The individual’s decision to found TisOva in 2023 was driven by a desire to address the impact of online scams on students and enhance online safety.
In providing advice to new starters in cybersecurity, the recipient emphasizes the importance of adopting a mindset of possibility, continuous learning, problem-solving, networking, seeking mentorship, and giving back to the community. They encourage individuals to embrace curiosity and take action to create tangible impact in the industry.
A misconception in cybersecurity that the recipient aims to address is the belief that older people are more vulnerable to online scams, whereas students face significant risks, making them more susceptible to various cyber threats. TisOva’s mission is to raise awareness about the unique vulnerabilities of young adults to cyber scams and empower them with resources to protect themselves online.
Reflecting on their journey in cybersecurity, the recipient wishes they had known earlier about the dynamic nature of professional relationships and the importance of focusing on areas within cybersecurity that align with their interests and strengths. They urge new starters to explore different roles and specialties to discover their true passions and guide their career path towards fulfillment and success.
In conclusion, the recipient of the Most Inspiring Women in Cyber Awards exemplifies dedication, innovation, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the cybersecurity industry. Their journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring cybersecurity professionals to pursue their goals with determination, continuous learning, and a focus on creating meaningful change within the industry.