Nominations Open for 2026 Security Serious Unsung Heroes Awards
Nominations are currently being accepted for the 2026 Security Serious Unsung Heroes Awards, a prestigious event dedicated to acknowledging the individuals who work diligently behind the scenes to enhance security in the UK from cyber threats. Scheduled for 20 October at Balfour St Barts in London, this year’s ceremony will coincide with Cybersecurity Awareness Month, gathering an array of cybersecurity professionals, educators, researchers, journalists, and industry leaders.
The awards this year bring an innovative twist with the introduction of a new category: Best Academic Entrepreneur. This category aims to recognize those academics who have successfully ventured beyond the confines of their universities, transforming their cybersecurity research into viable business opportunities. The introduction of this category is bolstered by CyberASAP, the UK’s Government-supported Cyber Security Academic Start-Up Accelerator Programme, which proudly celebrates its tenth anniversary this year. Over the past decade, CyberASAP has seen its alumni secure an impressive £75 million in follow-on investment, resulting in the establishment of 45 cybersecurity companies along with numerous acquisitions and technology licenses within the industry.
Emma Fadlon and Robin Kennedy, Co-Directors of CyberASAP, shared their enthusiasm regarding the new award category. They emphasized the vital role that academics serve in fostering innovation within the cybersecurity ecosystem. Fadlon stated that equipping scholars to commercialize their research and thrive in the market aligns perfectly with the program’s mission. This sentiment underscores the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in addressing contemporary cybersecurity challenges.
In another significant development, the European open-source threat management firm, Filigran, has stepped forward as a sponsor for the awards, joining the ranks of CultureAI, OneAdvanced, and The Zensory. Their sponsorship plays a crucial role in keeping the entry and attendance fees free for all participants. Filigran has developed an advanced threat management (XTM) platform, which is designed to help security teams comprehend pertinent threats and continually validate their defenses. Cindy Valladeres, Head of Brand, Community, and Communications at Filigran, expressed pride in supporting the awards, highlighting the contributions made by individuals through their collaborative efforts and expertise in cybersecurity.
Pulse Conferences has also partnered with the event, lending their support as an event partner. Clive Room, the Director of Pulse Conferences, will join Yvonne Eskenzi, the Co-Founder and Director of Eskenzi PR, to co-host the award ceremony. Their partnership reflects the collaborative nature of the event, as various organizations unite to celebrate the dedication and accomplishments of cybersecurity professionals.
Now in its latest edition, the Security Serious Unsung Heroes Awards aim to shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked contributions of cybersecurity professionals. The diverse range of award categories covers vital areas such as technical security, education, leadership, journalism, diversity, wellbeing, and security awareness. The recognition provided by these awards is essential for raising awareness about the multifaceted nature of cybersecurity and the various professionals involved.
Yvonne Eskenzi, who plays a pivotal role in organizing the event, articulated the core belief that people are the heartbeat of cybersecurity. “Cybersecurity is ultimately powered by people. Behind every new defense, disrupted attack, and protected organization are individuals working tirelessly to make the digital world safer,” she remarked. Eskenzi also noted that, amidst the ongoing focus on emerging threats and technological advancements, the invaluable contributions of many dedicated professionals often go unappreciated. The Security Serious Unsung Heroes Awards represent an opportunity not just to recognize these individuals but to celebrate the passion and expertise that make the cybersecurity landscape unique.
For the 2026 awards, categories include CISO Supremo, Rising Star, Security Mentor, Best Ethical Hacker/Pentester, Data Guardian, Best Educator, Diversity Champion, Cybersecurity Wellbeing Advocate, and Channel Champion. Additionally, there will be recognition for security teams, awareness campaigns, journalists, bloggers, and podcasters, ensuring that the breadth of contributions to cybersecurity is acknowledged.
The judging panel is comprised of representatives from notable organizations including Computer Weekly, Infosecurity Magazine, CultureAI, CyberASAP, OneAdvanced, Pulse Conferences, HiddenText, Bora, and Eskenzi PR, further ensuring the legitimacy and prestige of the awards.
Nominations for these esteemed awards will close at 5 PM on 23 September 2026. All nominees, nominators, and their guests are cordially invited to celebrate at the awards ceremony in London on 20 October. This event promises to be a momentous occasion, recognizing the dedicated efforts of those who make the cybersecurity realm safer and more secure for all. For those interested in nominating individuals for this grand recognition, further details are available on the awards’ official website.