Cyber trailblazers breaking barriers: Insights from women cybersecurity leaders at Gitex 2024

By 2025, women are expected to comprise 30% of the global cybersecurity workforce, with projections rising to 35% by 2031. While this represents notable progress, discussions at Gitex 2024 underscored that the journey toward gender parity is far from complete.

One solution emphasized during the event was the critical role of mentorship and supportive networks in empowering women within cybersecurity. The panelists highlighted that mentorship from both men and women can serve as a vital mechanism for attracting more women to the sector, offering guidance, career development, and growth opportunities. “The cybersecurity barrier is challenging for women; we are breaking barriers and encouraging more women to pursue STEM careers. But we must do even more,” said H.E. Tigist Hamid Mohammed, Director General of the Information Network Security Administration in Ethiopia.

Dr. Abeer Khedr, Group Head of Cybersecurity at the National Bank of Egypt, echoed this sentiment: “Cyber leadership at the client side means reaching CISO levels or beyond. In Egypt, entry-level positions in cybersecurity show a 60:40 ratio of women to men. The real challenge arises as women advance into middle management. To shift the narrative on cyber leadership, we need more women in boardrooms. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are among the top three nations with the highest percentage of women on boards, across both tech and other sectors.”

Another key point discussed was the retention of women in cybersecurity roles by fostering workplace environments that prioritize professional development, flexible working arrangements, and work-life balance. Organizations that embrace these practices are better positioned to retain female talent and reduce attrition.

The session also showcased the inspiring stories of women who have successfully broken barriers within the cybersecurity industry, ascending to leadership roles and shaping the future of the field. These leaders not only safeguard their organizations from cyber threats but also serve as role models for the next generation.

Several targeted initiatives were highlighted, such as leadership development programs tailored for women and underrepresented groups. These programs offer specialized training, networking opportunities, and career pathways to CISO-level roles. “We become trailblazers when we fall, keep standing, and continue thriving in the ecosystem together,” noted Dr. Reem Faraj Al-Shammari, a Cybersecurity and Technology Thought Leader in the Energy Sector in Kuwait.

The panellists stressed the importance of early intervention to inspire girls and underrepresented groups to pursue careers in STEM. Initiatives such as scholarships, internship programs, and early exposure to technology were identified as crucial measures in closing the gender gap and encouraging more women to enter the cybersecurity field.

Hands-on programs such as coding boot camps, workshops, and partnerships with educational institutions were also recognized as effective tools for bridging the gap between academic education and the real-world challenges of cybersecurity.

In conclusion, the demand for a diverse workforce has never been more urgent as the cybersecurity sector continues to expand. The dialogue at Gitex 2024 with prominent women leaders in the field illuminated both the progress made and the significant work that remains. By addressing the skills gap, improving recruitment and retention efforts, and expanding opportunities for women and underrepresented groups in STEM, the industry can pave the way for a more inclusive and secure future.