In the cybersecurity industry, professional networking events and conferences are often saturated with alcohol, creating a challenging environment for individuals who do not drink. Jennifer VanAntwerp, a seasoned marketing professional, recognized this common thread across various industries and decided to take action. She founded Sober in Cyber in 2023, a platform that provides a sober environment for professionals to network without the pressure to consume alcohol.

VanAntwerp’s initiative is timely, coinciding with the growing “sober curious” movement, where individuals are reevaluating their relationship with alcohol and opting to drink less or not at all. A recent NCSolutions survey revealed that 41% of Americans intend to reduce their alcohol consumption in 2024, indicating a shift towards non-alcoholic beverage options.

Within the cybersecurity industry specifically, the prevalence of unhealthy drinking habits is concerning. A survey conducted by Tines found that 19% of respondents in the cybersecurity field consume more than three drinks daily, exceeding the recommended limits by health authorities. This trend underscores the importance of offering alcohol-free alternatives at networking events and conferences.

Tom Eston, a security professional who has been sober for nine months, emphasized the challenges of navigating social situations where alcohol is a focal point. Despite facing occasional awkward moments, Eston is committed to his alcohol-free lifestyle and advocates for more inclusive networking environments.

Others, like Jennifer Leggio, have experienced exclusion and discomfort due to their sobriety at industry events. Alcohol-related networking opportunities can be limiting and isolating for individuals who choose not to drink, highlighting the need for greater awareness and accommodation within the cybersecurity community.

Sober in Cyber aims to address these issues by providing a platform for professionals to connect without the pressure to partake in alcohol-centric activities. Beyond hosting sober gatherings at conferences, VanAntwerp has expanded the initiative to include a Discord community, virtual meetups, and collaborative events with organizations like Mental Health Hackers.

While the cybersecurity industry still has a long way to go in terms of accommodating sober professionals, VanAntwerp remains optimistic about the gradual shift in perceptions. By advocating for alternative options and promoting successful alcohol-free events, she hopes to redefine the landscape of professional networking and make it more inclusive for all attendees.

Overall, Sober in Cyber serves as a pioneering effort to create a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals in the cybersecurity field who choose to abstain from alcohol. Through education, advocacy, and community building, VanAntwerp’s initiative is driving positive change and fostering a more inclusive culture within the industry.

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