This is where a pioneering individual like Helen Hazer Thomas steps in, bridging the gap between technical expertise and organizational leadership. After twelve years as a senior electrical engineer, designing software and hardware for continuous monitoring systems, Helen made a pivotal career shift to join cybersecurity.

1. Cyber Queens
The Rise of Women Leaders in
the Digital Defense Realm
The Silicon Leaders
Excellence in The Spotlight
Helen HazerThomas'
Small Business Strength:
Path to Cybersecurity Awareness
and Empowerment
Inclusive Innovators
How Women Leaders
Reshaping the Cybersecurity
Leadership Paradigm
The Most
Impactful
Womenin
Cyber Security
for 2024
Helen Hazer Thomas
Director of Governance,
Risk and Compliance
Digital Beachhead
VOL-03 | ISSUE - 01 | 2024

2. A woman with
a voice is, by definition,
a strong woman.

4. Editor’s
Desk

5. n recent years, the field of cybersecurity
Ihas become an integral aspect of our
increasingly digitized world. With the
constant evolution of cyber threats, the need
for effective and innovative cybersecurity
measures has never been more critical. In this
dynamic landscape, women leaders have
emerged as key driving forces, contributing
significantly to advancements and betterments
in the cybersecurity niche.
Historically, the technology and cybersecurity
sectors have been male-dominated, with
women often underrepresented. However, the
narrative is changing as more women are
stepping up with their leadership roles in the
industry. Breaking through gender barriers,
women leaders bring unique perspectives and
diverse skill sets to the table, contributing to a
more inclusive and holistic approach to
cybersecurity.
Women leaders in cybersecurity are catalysts
for innovation. By fostering diverse teams and
encouraging collaboration, they create
environments that stimulate creativity and out-
of-the-box thinking. This approach is essential
in addressing the constantly evolving nature
of cyber threats, where innovative solutions
are crucial for staying ahead of malicious
actors.
Recognizing the importance of a well-trained
workforce in cybersecurity, women leaders are
actively involved in promoting education and
training initiatives. By championing programs
that encourage more women to pursue careers
in cybersecurity, these leaders are helping to
address the industry's skill shortage while
simultaneously promoting diversity.
Effective cybersecurity is not just about
technology; it also involves cultivating a
culture of security within organizations.
Women leaders often excel in building
inclusive and supportive work environments,
which are essential for developing resilient
cybersecurity cultures. Through mentorship
programs and advocacy, these leaders inspire
the next generation of cybersecurity
professionals.
In the face of cyberattacks and security
breaches, women leaders have demonstrated
exceptional crisis management skills. Their
ability to remain composed under pressure,
make informed decisions, and effectively
communicate with stakeholders contributes
significantly to the swift and efficient
resolution of cybersecurity incidents. Women
leaders in cybersecurity are at the forefront of
addressing ethical considerations related to
technology and data security. Their
commitment to ethical practices ensures that
cybersecurity measures align with values and
principles, safeguarding not only digital assets
but also the trust of users and stakeholders.
The Women's Day special edition of The Silicon
Leaders showcases The Most Impactful
Women in Cyber Security for 2024, who are
breaking down gender barriers, fostering
innovation, emphasizing education and
building resilient cultures. These leaders are
addressing ethical concerns and are
contributing to a more robust and effective
cybersecurity landscape.
The industry stands to benefit greatly from
the diverse perspectives and expertise that
women leaders bring, ensuring a safer and
more secure digital future for us all.
Flip through the pages and have a delightful
read!
JamieCason
Women Leaders
Fortifying Cybersecurity

6. 08

7. CXO
20
22
ARTICLES
Architecting Security
for SMBs
Wri en by Alisha Smith
Protecting Children
with Cybersecurity
-Wri en by Rachel Herren
Cyber Queens
The Rise of Women Leaders in
the Digital Defense Realm
Inclusive Innovators
How Women Leaders
Reshaping the Cybersecurity
Leadership Paradigm?
16
26

8. contact@thesiliconleaders.com
March, 2024
Copyright © 2024 The Silicon Leaders, All rights reserved. The content and
images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or
otherwise, without prior permission from The Silicon Leaders.
Reprint rights remain solely with The Silicon Leaders.
Follow us on
https://www.facebook.com/TheSiliconLeaders/
We are also available on :
CREDITS
The
Silicon
Leaders Excellence
in
The
Spotlight
Merry D'Souza
Editor-in-Chief
James Taylor
Deputy Editor
Jamie Carlson
Executive Editor
Anish Miller
Assistant Editor
David King
Visualizer
Reva Adams
Art & Design Director
Dave Stonis
Associate Designer
James Saw
Senior Sales Manager
John Matthew
Marketing Manager
Patrick Beretta
Technical Head
Sandy Madison
SME-SMO Executive
Dave Morgan
Business Development Manager
David, Joe
Sales Executives
Steve, Simon
Business Development Executives
Dominique T.
Digital Marketing Manager
Frank Adams
Research Analyst
Robert Brown
Circulation Manager
Stella Andrew
Database Management
Technology Consultant David Stokes

9. "Women in leadership
positions bolster
cybersecurity by weaving
a fabric of
collaboration, trust, and
foresight into the digital
landscape

10. Helen Hazer Thomas
Director of
Governance, Risk and
Compliance
Digital Beachhead

11. COVER STORY
Small Business Strength:
Path to Cybersecurity Awareness
and Empowerment
Helen HazerThomas'
oday's digital landscape is a
Tsprawling web of
interconnected devices and data
flows. Every keystroke, every
transaction, and every piece of data is
constantly vulnerable to a barrage of
cyberattacks. Therefore, safeguarding
sensitive information and maintaining
regulatory compliance is crucial for
businesses of all sizes. However, the
responsibility doesn't fall solely on
technical teams. Leaders play a critical
role in fostering a culture of
cybersecurity awareness and prioritizing
data protection across the organization.
This is where a pioneering individual like
Helen Hazer Thomas steps in,
bridging the gap between technical
expertise and organizational leadership.
After twelve years as a senior electrical
engineer, designing software and
hardware for continuous monitoring
systems, Helen made a pivotal career
shift to join cybersecurity.
Driven by a passion to combat cyber
threats and assisting companies in
navigating compliance requirements, she
Participating in NCL
was an invaluable
experience, it
allowed me to refine
my cybersecurity
skills, from pen-
testing to Open-
Source Intelligence
(OSINT), in a
simulated real-world
environment.
“
“

12. now serves as the Director of
Governance, Risk and Compliance at
Digital Beachhead. Through her
efforts, she ensures that businesses meet
regulatory standards and empowers
them to proactively defend against cyber
threats.
With a robust educational background,
including a Master of Science in
Electrical Engineering, a master's in
Management Information Systems, and
an MBA from UNLV, Helen brings a
wealth of expertise to her role. Beyond
her professional pursuits, she finds
solace in leisurely rounds of golf and
exploring new destinations.
Helen's fluency in French and Persian,
along with her proficiency in Spanish,
reflects her global perspective and ability
to connect with diverse audiences. At
Digital Beachhead, she leads the charge
of providing cyber compliance audits,
policy development and cyber awareness
training, ensuring that organizations are
equipped to navigate emerging
cybersecurity issues with confidence.
Empowered by Education
Helen's journey into cybersecurity began
during the rigors of pursuing a dual
MBA/MIS degree while managing her
small business. Immersed in academia,
she seized every opportunity to glean
insights from industry experts who
graced her classrooms. It was during her
MIS program that she stumbled upon
the National Cyber League (NCL)
competition—a challenging arena
facilitated by Cyber Skyline. "Participating
in NCL was an invaluable experience,"
Helen reflects, "it allowed me to refine my
cybersecurity skills, from pen-testing to Open-
Source Intelligence (OSINT), in a simulated
real-world environment.”
Post-graduation, Helen embarked on a
mission to bolster her expertise further,
and enrolled in additional graduate
courses encompassing computer
forensics, data management and app
development. Her tenacity led her to
craft a retirement calculator app using
Swift, showcasing her burgeoning skills.
However, despite her qualifications,
entry-level job opportunities in
cybersecurity remained elusive due to
the prerequisite of field experience.
Undeterred, Helen stumbled upon a
lifeline on LinkedIn—a 10-month
remote cybersecurity boot camp offered
by UNLV in collaboration with
ThriveDX.
She notes, "The boot camp bridged the
experience gap with seasoned instructors offering
invaluable industry insights and networking
opportunities." Early in the program, she
crossed paths with Mike Crandall, CEO
of Digital Beachhead, who extended her
an internship offer. This serendipitous
encounter laid the foundation for her
subsequent role as a cybersecurity
analyst, a position she continues to excel
in today.
Guided by Mentorship
Guided by mentors like Professor Greg
Moody from UNLV and Mike Crandall,
Helen navigated the labyrinthine realm
of cybersecurity with untiring resolve.
She acknowledges, "Their guidance was
instrumental but none of it would have been
possible without the firm support of my
husband, Johnny." Helen's journey stands
as a reflection of the adage that success
isn't merely a solitary pursuit but a
collaborative effort fueled by
perseverance and staunch support.
Today, as the Director of GRC at Digital
Beachhead, Helen leverages her
expertise to assist clients in navigating
the complex landscape of cybersecurity.
From risk management to CMMC
compliance, her team provides tailored
solutions that prioritize each client's
unique needs and budgetary constraints.
Empowering Against Digital Threats
"The increase in cybersecurity incidents and
ransomware made me want to learn more about
ways to protect ourselves," reflects Helen,
echoing the sentiments of many amidst
the rising tide of digital threats.
Motivated by a sense of duty, she eagerly
entered the fray against cyber-attacks
and recognized the pervasive impact
they have on individuals as well as
organizations alike.
With cyberattacks affecting virtually
everyone in some capacity, Helen
acknowledges the pressing need for
skilled cybersecurity professionals. The
Cyber Seek site underscores this demand
by revealing a stark talent gap where job
openings outnumber qualified
candidates. This revelation stresses the
vital importance of continuous
education in the field, a commitment
Helen upholds in accordance with Phi
Kappa Phi's ethos—Let the love of learning
rule humanity.
Staying abreast of new tools and
technologies is imperative to thwart
potential threats effectively in the
cybersecurity realm. Helen's journey
exemplifies the proactive approach
required to safeguard digital assets in an
increasingly perilous cyber terrain.
Small Business, Big Risks
Helen confronts some of her most
challenging projects when small
businesses seek assistance following a
breach or unusual incident. She shares
that it's difficult to witness their reaction,
knowing that with basic cybersecurity
practices, the incident could have been
prevented further potentially saving their
business.
Lamentably, many small businesses
underestimate their susceptibility to
cyber threats, leaving them ill-prepared
for malicious attacks. Helen emphasizes
The Most Impactful Women in Cyber Security for 2024

13. COVER STORY

15. the importance of implementing
security awareness and education to
thwart cybercriminals. Without proactive
measures in place, businesses
inadvertently facilitate the work of
threat actors.
Recognizing the limitations of reactive
measures, Helen and her team focus on
enhancing the cybersecurity posture of
small businesses. By considering their
budget constraints and risk factors, they
tailor solutions to fortify defenses and
recommend actionable plans.
Additionally, they collaborate with
clients to develop robust incident
response strategies, enabling swift
recovery and resilience in the face of
future threats.
The Tech Savvy Guardian
Drawing from her electrical engineering
career, Helen possesses an adeptness
with software and hardware that
accelerates her grasp of cybersecurity
tools. While not all cybersecurity
domains demand coding expertise,
Helen finds her object-oriented
programming knowledge invaluable.
Coupled with her MIS and business
acumen, she navigates project
management, data handling, and risk
mitigation with finesse. From secure
user interfaces to application
development, Helen's multifaceted skill
set equips her to tackle diverse
challenges in the cybersecurity domain.
Adapting to Regulatory Changes
"It is critical to keep up to date with changes in
rules and regulations, from domestic ones like
HIPPA and CMMC to global ones like
GDRP," Helen advises. Understanding
each client's unique circumstances is
crucial for crafting cost-effective
compliance strategies tailored to their
needs.
However, constraints such as time,
budget, or technological limitations
often pose challenges. "Small businesses
face a scarcity of cybersecurity tools customized
to their scale," she highlights the need for
innovative solutions. Helen and her team
employ creative approaches to navigate
these obstacles ensuring small businesses
meet their compliance obligations
efficiently.
Strength in Adversity
"In my journey through electrical engineering
and Management Information Systems, I've
encountered few women," reflects Helen.
Despite predominantly male-dominated
work environments, she remains
undeterred. "I'm used to it," she
acknowledges, drawing strength from
her father's wisdom to believe in herself
and silence doubts from others.
Amidst challenges, Helen maintains
composure, guided by her father's advice
to navigate obstacles methodically. Her
resilience and firm self-belief propel her
forward, proving her capabilities in every
endeavor.
It Starts at the Top
Stressing the vital role of leadership
commitment, Helen asserts, "The
stakeholders and executives must be on board to
improve cybersecurity posture." In today's
landscape, where cyber threats loom
large, mitigating risks is imperative for
organizational survival. Convincing
decision-makers of the importance of
allocating resources to cybersecurity is
principal.
"It starts with security awareness training,"
she emphasizes, citing it as a cost-
effective yet powerful measure. With
leadership buy-in and strategic
investment, organizations can fortify
their defenses against evolving cyber
threats safeguarding their operations and
reputation in an increasingly digital
world.
Preventing Breaches
"Cybersecurity must be integral to product
development," insists Helen, accentuating
proactive measures over-reactive fixes.
The rush to market and budget
constraints often sideline security
considerations further risking user data.
Thorough third-party pen-testing is
essential to preempt vulnerabilities pre-
launch.
On the other hand, emerging
technologies like quantum computing
necessitate continual adaptation of
encryption methods for robust security.
By embedding cybersecurity into every
stage of development and staying
abreast of technological advancements,
organizations can safeguard against
evolving threats and protect both their
products and users.
Empathy and Expertise
Helen starts with, "Some of our clients are
very small companies with large responsibilities.
As a small business owner, I understand the
challenges our clients face." She
AI will play a
great role in
cybersecurity by
improving threat
detection tools
that are proactive
in alerting and
preventing
attacks.
“
“
COVER STORY

16. acknowledges the myriad responsibilities
they juggle. From accounting to sales,
product development, and marketing,
the burden can be overwhelming.
Drawing from her own experiences,
Helen lends a compassionate ear to
client concerns, even when they struggle
to articulate them. This empathetic
approach fosters trust and enables her to
provide tailored solutions that address
each client's unique needs. In the
unfolding panorama of small business
ownership, Helen's understanding and
support are invaluable resources for her
clients' success.
AI's Double-Edged Sword
Highlighting AI's potential to
revolutionize threat detection and
prevention, Helen asserts, "AI will play a
great role in cybersecurity by improving threat
detection tools that are proactive in alerting and
preventing attacks." With its capacity to
analyze vast amounts of data and
pinpoint anomalies, AI-driven tools
offer proactive defense against
cyberattacks, mitigating risks at an early
stage. Yet, she cautions that threat actors
also harness AI for nefarious purposes
posing new dangers such as deep fakes
and sophisticated phishing campaigns.
Concerned by the underrepresentation
of women in cybersecurity, Helen is
committed to fostering diversity in the
field. Teaching cybersecurity alongside
Mike at various universities, she
endeavors to inspire and empower the
next generation of professionals,
particularly women. At Digital
Beachhead, internships are offered to
students, providing valuable experience
and paving the way for future
employment opportunities.
Helen's dedication to cultivating a
diverse and skilled workforce
accentuates her vision for a more
The increase in
cybersecurity
incidents and
ransomware made
me want to learn
more about ways
to protect
ourselves.
“
“

17. inclusive and resilient cybersecurity
landscape.
Investing in Your Cyber Future
"For some—it's a four-year degree, for
others—it's a boot camp, for me—it was a
combination of both," explains Helen,
emphasizing the diverse paths into
cybersecurity. Acquiring a solid
foundation in cybersecurity
fundamentals is key, enabling individuals
to discern their niche within the field.
"Investing in yourself will pay for itself," she
advises, highlighting the value of
continuous learning and certification,
with CompTIA Security+ as a pivotal
starting point.
Persistence is key in navigating the
competitive job market, Helen
underscores. Entry-level roles like
internships or help desk positions offer
invaluable experience, paving the way
for career advancement. She stresses
that networking is essential to
advocating for active participation in
professional associations like ISSA and
engagement with peers via platforms
like LinkedIn.
Furthermore, Helen encourages women
to seek mentorship and support through
women-centric associations such as
WSC and WiCyS. "Connecting with other
women in the field can be empowering," she
affirms highlighting the importance of
camaraderie and inspiration in forging a
successful career in cybersecurity.
For some-it's a
four-year degree,
for others-it's a
boot camp, for
me-it was a
combination of
both.
“
“
COVER STORY

18. The Rise of
Women Leaders in the
Digital Defense Realm
he digital defense realm, once
Tpredominantly male-dominated, is
experiencing a transformative shift as
women increasingly ascend to leadership roles,
guiding the industry into a new era of
cybersecurity.
This article explores the rise of women leaders in the
digital defense realm, emphasizing their significant
contributions and impact on shaping the future of
cybersecurity without mentioning any names.
Breaking Through Cyber Glass Ceilings
Historically, cybersecurity has been a field
characterized by a gender gap, with women
underrepresented in leadership positions.
However, a notable shift is occurring as more
women break through traditional barriers and
assume key roles in shaping digital defense
strategies. These Cyber Queens are challenging
stereotypes and reshaping the narrative of
leadership in the cybersecurity domain.
Diversity as a Catalyst for Innovation
The rise of women leaders in digital defense
brings a valuable diversity of perspectives to the
field. Studies consistently show that diverse
teams are more innovative and effective in
tackling complex challenges. Cyber Queens
contribute unique insights and approaches,
fostering a more dynamic and adaptive
cybersecurity landscape.
Embracing Multidisciplinary Expertise
Women leaders in digital defense often bring
multidisciplinary expertise to their roles. With
backgrounds spanning technology, law,
www.thesiliconleaders.com
16

19. Cyber Queens
| March 2024 |
17

20. psychology, and other fields, these
leaders understand that effective
cybersecurity requires a holistic
approach. Their ability to bridge
technical and non-technical aspects
positions them as versatile and strategic
decision-makers.
Fostering a Culture of Inclusivity
Cyber Queens are at the forefront of
fostering an inclusive culture within the
digital defense realm. They recognize the
importance of creating environments
where individuals of all genders,
backgrounds, and experiences feel
empowered to contribute. This inclusive
culture not only attracts diverse talent
but also strengthens the industry as a
whole.
Leading Cybersecurity Education
Initiatives
Women leaders in digital defense are
actively involved in cybersecurity
education initiatives. Recognizing the
need for a skilled and diverse workforce,
they champion educational programs,
mentorship, and outreach efforts to
encourage more individuals, especially
women, to pursue careers in
cybersecurity. Their advocacy
contributes to the development of the
next generation of cyber professionals.
Innovating in Threat Intelligence
Cybersecurity threats are constantly
evolving, and Cyber Queens are at the
forefront of innovating in threat
intelligence. Their analytical skills,
combined with strategic thinking, enable
them to navigate the complex landscape
of cyber threats. By staying ahead of
emerging risks, women leaders
contribute to enhancing the resilience of
digital defense strategies.
Driving Cyber Resilience Strategies
Women leaders play a pivotal role in
driving cyber resilience strategies within
organizations. Their focus on proactive
measures, incident response planning,
and collaboration with cross-functional
teams enhances the overall cyber
resilience of institutions. Cyber Queens
understand that resilience is not just
about preventing attacks but also about
effectively mitigating and recovering
from incidents.
Advocacy for Ethical Cyber Practices
Ethical considerations in cybersecurity
are paramount, and women leaders are
strong advocates for ethical cyber
practices. They emphasize the
importance of responsible use of
technology, data privacy, and adherence
to ethical standards in the development
and deployment of cybersecurity
solutions. This ethical foundation builds
trust and credibility in the digital defense
realm.
Navigating the Intersection of
Privacy and Security
The intersection of privacy and security
is a complex terrain, and women leaders
adeptly navigate these challenges.
Recognizing the importance of
protecting individuals' privacy while
maintaining robust security measures,
Cyber Queens develop strategies that
strike a balance between safeguarding
sensitive information and ensuring user
trust.
Promoting Work-Life Integration in
Cybersecurity
Women leaders in digital defense often
champion work-life integration,
recognizing the importance of
maintaining a healthy balance between
professional and personal
responsibilities. By advocating for
flexible work arrangements, supportive
company policies, and fostering a culture
that values well-being, Cyber Queens
contribute to creating a sustainable and
inclusive work environment.
Addressing the Cybersecurity Skills
Gap
The cybersecurity industry faces a
significant skills gap, and women leaders
are actively engaged in addressing this
challenge. Cyber Queens support
initiatives aimed at closing the skills gap
by encouraging diverse talent to pursue
careers in cybersecurity. Their
involvement in mentorship programs
and industry partnerships helps bridge
the divide and strengthen the workforce.
Leading Incident Response and
Crisis Management
Women leaders play crucial roles in
incident response and crisis management
within the digital defense realm. Their
strategic thinking and calm leadership
during high-pressure situations
contribute to effective resolution of
cybersecurity incidents. Cyber Queens
excel in guiding teams through crises,
mitigating risks, and ensuring a swift and
coordinated response.
Conclusion
The rise of women leaders in the digital
defense realm, aptly referred to as Cyber
Queens, signifies a transformative shift
in the landscape of cybersecurity. Their
contributions extend beyond technical
expertise to encompass leadership,
innovation, and advocacy for a more
inclusive and ethical cybersecurity
environment. As Cyber Queens
continue to shape the future of digital
defense, their leadership serves as a
testament to the crucial role that
diversity and gender equality play in
fortifying our digital world against
emerging cyber threats.
www.thesiliconleaders.com | March 2024 |
18
18

21. CYBERSECURITY IS A JOURNEY
THAT REQUIRES VIGILANCE AND
ADAPTATION ALONG THE WAY.

22. Architecting Security
for SMBs
Written by Alisha Smith
rom analyzing mobile apps to
Fnavigating the intricacies of
ophthalmic science, my path has
always been guided by a passion for
understanding how things work and a
drive to protect them. Today, as a SOC
Specialist at Digital Beachhead, I
leverage this combined curiosity and
expertise to empower small and
medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with
robust cybersecurity solutions.
Joining Digital Beachhead mere months
after graduating with a bachelor’s in
cyber security engineering, I found a
company committed to making cutting-
edge security accessible to all. My role
focuses on establishing and maintaining
efficient Security Operations Centers
(SOCs) tailored to the specific needs of
SMBs. This involves:
Ÿ Vigilantly monitoring and analyzing
security events: With a keen eye for
anomalies, I sift through network
logs, identify potential threats, and
promptly alert clients to take action.
Ÿ Continuously optimizing security
posture: I regularly review and
update SOC configurations,
incorporating the latest threat
intelligence and vulnerability
assessments to ensure long-term
protection.
My journey doesn't stop there. As a
cybersecurity advocate, I believe in
knowledge sharing. I curate informative
news columns for Digital Beachhead,
keeping clients informed about evolving
cyber threats and best practices. My goal
is to demystify cybersecurity and
empower them to make informed
decisions about their online safety.
Looking ahead, I'm excited to further
hone my skills, delve deeper into
emerging cyber threats, and contribute
to Digital Beachhead’s mission of
democratizing cybersecurity. For me,
being a "Woman in Cybersecurity" isn't
just a label; it's a responsibility to push
boundaries, challenge the status quo, and
build a safer digital world for everyone,
especially for underserved SMBs.
www.thesiliconleaders.com
20

23. C
X
O
| March 2024 |
21

24. How Women Leaders
are Reshaping the
Cybersecurity
Leadership Paradigm?
he realm of cybersecurity
Tleadership is undergoing a
transformative shift as women
leaders, often overlooked in the past,
take center stage as inclusive
innovators. This article delves into the
ways women leaders are reshaping the
cybersecurity leadership paradigm,
breaking barriers, and fostering a more
inclusive and innovative approach
without mentioning any specific
names.
Dismantling Stereotypes in
Cybersecurity
Women leaders in cybersecurity are
actively dismantling long-standing
stereotypes that have hindered diversity
in the field. Their expertise and
accomplishments challenge the notion
that cybersecurity leadership is
exclusively male-dominated, paving the
way for a more inclusive paradigm
where talent and capability are
recognized without regard to gender.
Cultivating Inclusive Leadership
Styles
Inclusive innovators in cybersecurity
bring forth leadership styles that
prioritize collaboration,
communication, and mentorship.
Women leaders often cultivate inclusive
environments where diverse
perspectives are valued, contributing to
more effective decision-making and
problem-solving. Their leadership
styles emphasize teamwork and
harness the collective intelligence of
diverse teams.
Promoting Diversity in
Cybersecurity Teams
Women leaders are actively promoting
diversity within cybersecurity teams.
Recognizing the strength that comes
from a mix of backgrounds,
experiences, and perspectives, they
advocate for hiring practices that
prioritize inclusivity. This commitment
to diversity extends beyond gender,
encompassing a broad spectrum of
talents and backgrounds within
cybersecurity teams.
Fostering Mentorship and Skill
Development
Inclusive innovators play a key role in
fostering mentorship programs and
skill development initiatives within the
cybersecurity community. They
understand the importance of guiding
the next generation of professionals,
especially women, and providing them
with opportunities to acquire the skills
necessary for leadership roles in digital
defense.
Breaking Down Barriers to Entry
Women leaders are actively involved in
breaking down barriers to entry in the
cybersecurity field. Through
educational initiatives, outreach
www.thesiliconleaders.com
22

25. Inclusive Innovators
| March 2024 |
23

26. programs, and advocacy efforts,
they work to create pathways for
individuals from diverse
backgrounds to enter and excel in
cybersecurity careers. Their
commitment to accessibility
broadens the talent pool and
strengthens the industry.
Championing Ethical
Practices and Responsible AI
Inclusive innovators in
cybersecurity are champions of
ethical practices and responsible
artificial intelligence (AI). They
advocate for the development
and deployment of cybersecurity
solutions that prioritize privacy,
transparency, and ethical
considerations. Their influence
contributes to shaping a
cybersecurity landscape that
aligns with principles of
responsible technology use.
Navigating the Complexity of
Cyber Threats
Women leaders excel in
navigating the intricate landscape
of cyber threats. Their ability to
analyze complex situations, think
strategically, and adapt to
evolving threats positions them as
effective leaders in digital defense.
Inclusive innovators bring a
multidimensional approach to
addressing cybersecurity
challenges, leveraging diverse
skills and experiences.
Creating Supportive Work
Environments
Women leaders actively
contribute to the creation of
supportive work environments
within cybersecurity
organizations. Their emphasis on
fostering a culture of respect,
equity, and inclusion enhances
employee satisfaction and
retention. Inclusive innovators
understand the importance of a
positive workplace culture in
attracting and retaining diverse
talent.
Embracing Intersectionality in
Cybersecurity Leadership
Inclusive innovators recognize
and embrace intersectionality in
cybersecurity leadership. They
advocate for an inclusive
approach that considers the
intersection of various identities,
such as gender, race, ethnicity,
and background. This
acknowledgment ensures that
leadership paradigms are sensitive
to the diverse experiences of
individuals within the
cybersecurity community.
Shaping Policies for a Secure
and Inclusive Future
Women leaders actively
contribute to shaping policies that
govern cybersecurity practices.
Their involvement in policy
development ensures that
considerations of inclusivity,
privacy, and ethical standards are
integrated into the regulatory
framework. Inclusive innovators
influence the creation of policies
that not only enhance security but
also contribute to a more
equitable digital future.
Advancing Cybersecurity
Education Initiatives
Inclusive innovators actively
advance cybersecurity education
initiatives, recognizing the pivotal
role of education in cultivating
the next generation of
cybersecurity professionals. They
contribute to the development of
curriculum, mentorship
programs, and outreach efforts
aimed at encouraging individuals,
especially women, to pursue
education and careers in
cybersecurity.
Leading Industry
Collaboration and Partnerships
Women leaders play a key role in
fostering collaboration and
partnerships within the
cybersecurity industry. Their
collaborative approach transcends
organizational boundaries,
encouraging information sharing,
joint research efforts, and the
development of best practices.
Inclusive innovators recognize
that collective action is essential
in addressing global cybersecurity
challenges.
Conclusion:
The paradigm of cybersecurity
leadership is undergoing a
profound transformation under
the influence of women leaders
who serve as inclusive innovators.
Their commitment to breaking
stereotypes, promoting diversity,
fostering inclusive environments,
and shaping ethical practices is
reshaping the very fabric of
digital defense. As these inclusive
innovators continue to pioneer
change, the cybersecurity
landscape evolves into a more
resilient, adaptive, and inclusive
space that reflects the diverse
talents and perspectives needed to
navigate the complex challenges
of the digital age.
www.thesiliconleaders.com | March 2024 |
24
24

27. cYBERSECURITY IS ABOUT
PROTECTING DIGITAL ASSETS
BUT MORE THAN THAT
PROTECTING PEOPLE.

28. CXO
Protecting Children
with Cybersecurity
-Written by Rachel Herren
efore making the change to
BCybersecurity, I had spent my
entire career working with
children who were victims of sexual and
physical abuse. My position was as a
Forensic Interviewer, working alongside
Law Enforcement and Child Protective
Services to interview children ages 3-17
in detail about their abuse. While the
majority of the perpetrators in these
cases were known to the children, there
were quite a few cases of online
exploitation, and it became very
apparent very quickly how little children
actually know about online safety and
how their parents know even less.
In each interaction I had with non-
offending caregivers, I would provide a
list of apps to look out for and the best
practices to help their children stay safe
online, but within a few months,
everything on the list would become
obsolete and have to be replaced with
new emerging threats.
Back in spring 2022, I started a program
with the University of Colorado Boulder
and ThriveDx to earn my Certificate in
Cybersecurity so that I can become the
one on the front lines for these threats
instead of trying to follow along and
catch up. I worked for Digital Beach-
head as my entry point as a cybersecurity
professional, and I want to continue my
journey to support and defend children
in need.
The DQ Institute, an International
“think tank” dedicated to setting global
standards for digital education, outreach
and policies, recently released their 2023
Child Online Safety Index, and one of
the statistics that sticks out the most to
me is that around 70% of children have
experienced at least one Cyber-Risk (i.e.
cyberbullying, online sexual behaviors,
offline meetings, etc.) every year since
2017.
As technology continues to advance and
move forward at a rapid pace, the
strategies and techniques that predators
use to target children online evolve just
as quickly. Children are targeted because
they have easy access to apps, video
games, and the internet, and only have
minimal knowledge of the risks
associated.
Cybersecurity education is not only
important but needed for our youth;
they need to be informed about the
most common passwords, how to spot
phishing attempts, and keeping personal
information private. My goal in the
Cybersecurity field is to one day assist
with building a Cybersecurity based
program for children that teaches online
education regarding topics that most
programs aren’t usually comfortable
touching (i.e. online predators and their
techniques, pornographic images and
how they can stay online forever, etc.), as
well as computer programming skills,
how to mitigate cyberattacks, and how
to protect themselves and their identity
online. We owe it to children to protect
them and make the internet a safer
place, and Cybersecurity is the way to
make that happen.
www.thesiliconleaders.com
26

29. | March 2024 |
27

30. True cybersecurity leadership
transcends gender. It's about
competence, commitment, and
the courage to protect our
digital frontier.

32. The Silicon Leaders
Excellence in The Spotlight