The inaugural Security LeadHER conference held in Nashville, Tennessee, from June 12-13 was hailed as a groundbreaking and successful event. Organized by ASIS International and the Security Industry Association (SIA), the conference aimed to advance, connect, and empower women in the security profession.
The conference brought together approximately 300 current and future “LeadHERs” and attendees of all backgrounds and genders. The program kicked off on June 12 with a range of engaging activities, including a behind-the-scenes security tour of Nashville’s renowned Ryman Auditorium, a visit to the National Museum of African American Music, and a women’s self-defense class. The day ended with a lively networking reception at Johnny Cash’s Bar & BBQ.
The following day, the conference commenced with an inspiring keynote from Eliza VanCort, a renowned speaker, author, and consultant. VanCort shared her personal journey and offered valuable guidance on how to claim success, stand tall, raise one’s voice, and be heard. She addressed important women’s leadership issues and provided participants with communication and presentation skills to achieve their goals personally and professionally.
The conference featured two tracks, focusing on Leadership and Security & Innovation. Industry-leading subject matter experts delivered presentations addressing topics such as setting boundaries, addressing virtual threats and harassment, mitigating unconscious biases against women in security, protecting data in the cloud, and the science of sex and its impact on the industry. These sessions provided actionable guidance and valuable insights for the attendees.
The conference concluded with a captivating keynote from Charity Blackwell, a diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioner, spoken word artist, emcee, and poetry specialist. Her performance and address explored the significance of owning one’s legacy through their work, leaving the attendees inspired and motivated.
Elaine Palome, the director of human resources, Americas, at Axis Communications and co-chair for Security LeadHER, expressed her gratitude for the hard work done by the SIA and ASIS communities to make the event a memorable experience. She highlighted the inspiring nature of seeing more than 300 women and their allies gather to share stories, ideas, and knowledge, and hinted at plans for next year’s event.
Antoinette King, founder of Credo Cyber Consulting LLC and event co-chair for Security LeadHER, described the event as a smashing success, with palpable energy in the room. She emphasized the insightful educational sessions and praised the keynote speakers for their valuable insights and inspiration.
The success of Security LeadHER 2023 was made possible in part thanks to the support of various sponsors, including Apple as the Featured Sponsor, dormakaba, Intel, and Wesco as Premier Sponsors, and Axis Communications and Securitas as Executive Sponsors, among others.
ASIS International, founded in 1955, is the world’s largest membership organization for security management professionals. With 34,000 members and chapters across the globe, ASIS is renowned for its role in learning, networking, standards, and research in the security industry. Through certifications, award-winning publications, and influential events like the Global Security Exchange (GSX), ASIS provides its members with the necessary resources to protect people, property, and information assets.
The Security Industry Association (SIA) is the leading trade association for global security solution providers. With over 1,400 member companies representing thousands of security leaders and experts, SIA shapes the future of the security industry. Through advocacy, industry standards, education and training, market opportunities, and collaboration with other organizations, SIA enhances the professionalism and market position of its members. SIA ensures its members have access to influential buyers and influencers through events like ISC Expos and conferences.
In summary, the inaugural Security LeadHER conference was a resounding success, bringing together a diverse group of security professionals to advance and empower women in the industry. With engaging activities, motivating keynotes, and informative sessions, the conference left attendees inspired and eager to make a difference in their careers. The support of various sponsors and the collaboration between ASIS International and the Security Industry Association played a crucial role in making the event a memorable experience. Looking ahead, the success of Security LeadHER 2023 sets the stage for future conferences that will continue to promote gender equality and inclusivity in the security profession.