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

Trailblazing women in cybersecurity discuss closing the gender gap, expanding STEM careers, and addressing the global skills shortage.

Credit: idg

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 …