On February 26, 2026, the renowned BT Tower in London played host to an inspiring ceremony, the Most Inspiring Women in Cyber Awards. This prestigious event honored the remarkable contributions of 21 women from various corners of the globe who have made significant strides in the cybersecurity field. These awards celebrated not only individual accomplishments but also noteworthy efforts aimed at addressing the gender divide in cyber. A sense of comradery and support resonated throughout the room, highlighting the essential mentorship efforts directed towards empowering the next generation of women in the industry.
Organized by Eskenzi PR and backed by prominent sponsors including Fidelity International, Plexal, Bridewell, and BT, the awards aimed to shine a spotlight on the critical role women play in cybersecurity. Priyanka Tyagi and Rose Calzado from Fidelity International initiated the evening with an inspiring keynote address detailing their internal efforts to cultivate a Women’s Community in Cyber, outlining its formation, ongoing achievements, and future objectives.
The ceremony’s international outlook was further emphasized by the decision to live-stream the event, ensuring that individuals unable to attend in person could still partake in the celebrations. This aspect underscores a commitment to inclusivity and to spreading the message of empowerment across borders—bridging the gap for those not physically present.
The selection of this year’s winners was a meticulous process, with an esteemed panel of judges facing the challenging task of narrowing down an impressive field of 200 exceptional women to identify just 21 nominees. The panel included prominent figures such as Rebecca Taylor, Threat Intelligence Knowledge Manager at Sophos, and Adaora Uche, GRC Lead at THG. Their involvement speaks volumes about the recognition and credibility that the awards carry within the industry. The judges also drew on their partnerships with organizations like WiCyS UK&I Affiliate, WiTCH, and Seidea, which helped reach women whose contributions might otherwise remain unnoticed.
Yvonne Eskenzi, Co-Founder of Eskenzi PR & Marketing, expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate such talented women. She remarked on the collective spirit of inspiration and empowerment that filled the venue, highlighting how each nominee was exceptional in her own right. Every winner undoubtedly deserved the accolades, marking an event dedicated to honoring unsung heroes in cybersecurity.
The evening’s agenda also featured a panel discussion focused on themes of authentic leadership and self-valuation in today’s workplace. Yvonne Eskenzi helmed the panel, which included voices from various sectors within cybersecurity, enriching the conversation further. The presence of established personalities, such as Dr. Valerie Lyons, COO at BH Consulting, and Janette Bonar Law, Information Security Manager at Channel 4, underscored the importance of these discussions in addressing contemporary challenges and opportunities in the industry.
The award winners were remarkable not just for their credentials but also for their commitment to shaping a diverse and inclusive cybersecurity landscape. This year’s Top 21 honorees included individuals like Dr. Stav Elbar, a Software Engineer at Google, and Indu Sajeev, the Chief Information Security Officer at ASOS, amongst others. Each winner brought unique insights and valuable contributions, reflecting a rich tapestry of experiences in the ever-evolving cyber domain.
The “Ones to Watch” category showcased five promising women poised to make a significant impact—highlighting future leaders who are making strides early in their careers. This inclusion points to the ongoing efforts to nurture emerging talent in the field.
Reflections from the winners themselves encapsulated the impact of the awards on their careers and aspirations. Chidimma Opara, a Lecturer at Teesside University, noted the award as a testament to her commitment to increasing visibility for underrepresented professionals in cybersecurity. Similarly, Sonia Kumar echoed the sentiments of community and opportunity while emphasizing the importance of diversity in thought as a pillar of innovation in cybersecurity.
The evening concluded on a note of hope and resilience, with multiple winners expressing their gratitude and motivation to continue paving the way for future generations. Through their achievements and dedication, they inspire not only those in attendance but also countless women globally, advocating for a more inclusive and diverse cybersecurity workforce.
In essence, the Most Inspiring Women in Cyber Awards highlighted the power of recognition, community, and mentorship. By honoring those who strive to elevate not just themselves but also others in the field, the event pointed toward a brighter future in cyber, one that promises both equity and opportunity for all.