Sochima Okoye, a cybersecurity consultant at CSA Cyber, was recently featured as one of the Most Inspiring Women in Cyber for 2025. Okoye shared her journey into the cybersecurity industry and the challenges she faced as a woman in the tech field. Her story is one of determination, perseverance, and empowerment.
In her role as a cybersecurity consultant, Okoye’s job involves performing security assessments for various businesses, identifying vulnerabilities in web and mobile applications, and providing recommendations for enhancing security measures. She enjoys the diversity of projects she works on, the opportunity to engage with different technologies, and the thrill of uncovering new possibilities each week. Travel is also a part of the job, depending on the location of the client, adding another dynamic element to her work.
Okoye’s path into cybersecurity was not traditional, as she initially studied Pharmacology at university before transitioning into tech. Starting in a project management role at a cybersecurity firm, she gradually developed an interest in the technical aspects of cybersecurity and learned the skills needed for the job. Over time, with the support of colleagues and mentors, Okoye honed her hacking abilities and successfully transitioned into the security consultancy team full-time.
One of the significant challenges Okoye faced as a woman in the tech industry was undervaluing her skills and lacking confidence in her abilities. She struggled with imposter syndrome and found it challenging to advocate for herself and her achievements. However, through the support of like-minded individuals and communities like WiCyS and Ladies of London Hacking Society, Okoye was able to reframe her thinking and build a strong network of women who shared similar experiences. By focusing on her strengths and celebrating her accomplishments, she overcame these self-doubts and continued to excel in her career.
Additionally, Okoye has been a vocal advocate for women in cybersecurity, creating spaces for women to connect, support each other, and thrive in the industry. She runs a scholarship initiative for the fwd:cloudsec Europe conference, aiming to provide opportunities for students and career changers to attend the event and advance their careers. By ensuring the initiative reached a diverse audience and having a committee that recognized the talent of female applicants, Okoye was able to contribute to narrowing the gender gap in cybersecurity and promoting inclusivity in the field.
Throughout her career, Okoye has been inspired by a multitude of role models and mentors, including her older sister Nenna, a software developer and educator. Nenna’s passion for teaching and her dedication to empowering women in tech have been particularly impactful on Okoye, motivating her to pay it forward and make a difference for other women in the industry.
Sochima Okoye’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-belief, and community support in overcoming challenges and achieving success in the cybersecurity field. Her dedication to empowering women and promoting diversity in tech makes her a truly inspiring figure in the industry.