Elise Ghent | President of CyberWomen@Warwick | CyberWomen Groups

 

I am a passionate university student at the University of Warwick, driven by a deep-rooted love for technology and its transformative capabilities. My journey in the field of cybersecurity began when I made the pivotal decision to choose computer science as a GCSE subject. It was during this time that my IT teacher’s persuasive enthusiasm ignited my curiosity and led me to embark on an exciting path.

From the moment I delved into the world of coding and problem-solving, I knew I had found my calling. The limitless possibilities and the ever-evolving nature of technology fascinated me, and I yearned to explore its potential to create positive change.

As I progressed through my academic journey, I became increasingly aware of the gender disparities within the tech industry. This realization ignited a fervent desire within me to contribute to the cause of diversity and inclusion. I wanted to empower and uplift underrepresented groups, particularly women, in the field of cybersecurity.

To bring this vision to life, I actively got involved in a cyber diversity initiative at my university. Serving as the External Communications Officer, I worked tirelessly alongside a dedicated team to establish and grow our initiative. Together, we organised a highly successful national conference that brought together over 200 attendees, including professionals, students, and industry experts.

In addition to the conference, we curated a series of engaging and informative webinars, designed to bridge the knowledge gap and provide valuable insights into the world of cybersecurity. These webinars became a platform for sharing expertise, fostering discussions, and inspiring individuals to explore career opportunities in this ever-expanding field.

Recognising the importance of nurturing talent from an early age, we embarked on an ambitious school outreach program. We visited secondary schools and delivered talks that aimed to demystify cybersecurity, challenge stereotypes, and encourage young minds to pursue STEM subjects. Witnessing the spark of curiosity and enthusiasm in the eyes of these students was truly rewarding, as we planted seeds of inspiration that could shape their future career paths.

This year, I have taken on the role of President of our cyber diversity initiative, leading a team of passionate individuals who share a common mission. Our upcoming conference, scheduled for October, is already in the works. We are actively engaging with various companies and cybersecurity experts to create an enriching experience for our attendees. Moreover, we are dedicated to expanding our reach to involve secondary school students and sixth formers, as we firmly believe in inspiring and empowering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

Through my leadership role and active involvement in this initiative, I aspire to foster an inclusive community that celebrates diversity, encourages collaboration, and provides opportunities for growth. I firmly believe that diversity in all its forms brings forth fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and ultimately leads to more effective problem-solving in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity.

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