In a world increasingly dependent on digital infrastructure, the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, and so does the role of women in this critical field. Irene Corpuz, a cyber policy expert at the Dubai Electronic Security Center and co-founder and board member of Women in Cyber Security Middle East (WiCSME), shared her insights on effective strategies for encouraging women in cybersecurity and the challenges small businesses face in prioritizing cybersecurity at The World Cybercon META Edition hosted by The Cyber Express in Dubai.

Strategies to Encourage Women in Cybersecurity

Irene Corpuz believes that collaboration and communication are key to empowering women in cybersecurity. One of the most effective strategies is to collaborate and communicate our objectives and advocacy for increasing and empowering women in cyber," she states. By showcasing women in various roles—from mentors and speakers to leaders—on platforms like conferences, the visibility and success of these women can inspire others to pursue their ambitions in the field. "Seeing other women grow and succeed motivates them to pursue their dreams and careers," Irene emphasizes. She highlights the importance of a supportive community, which acts as a backbone for women in cybersecurity, helping them navigate and thrive in the industry.

Trends in Women's Participation in Cybersecurity

Reflecting on her journey, Irene observes a positive trend in the participation of women in cybersecurity. When WiCSME was founded in 2018, women made up only 12% of the cybersecurity workforce. However, this number has significantly increased to 25% by last year. This growth is attributed not just to WiCSME but to the collective efforts of various women-in-cyber organizations worldwide. "There’s a continuous growth, and awareness of the importance of diversity and inclusion in cybersecurity is becoming more widespread," Irene notes. This trend signifies a growing recognition of the value that diverse perspectives bring to the cybersecurity industry.

Challenges for Small Businesses in Cybersecurity

Transitioning the conversation to small businesses, Irene sheds light on the challenges they face in prioritizing cybersecurity. "Small businesses and young entrepreneurs often face constraints in financial resources," she explains. As these businesses focus on growth and expanding their customer base, investing in cybersecurity often becomes a secondary priority. However, Irene stresses the importance of embedding a cybersecurity and awareness culture from the beginning, even if it means taking small steps. "Startups and SMEs need to take baby steps in embedding cybersecurity and awareness culture within their employees," she advises. As these companies mature, their cybersecurity measures should evolve accordingly to build a resilient defense against cyber threats.

Conclusion

The insights shared by Irene Corpuz underscore the significance of community support and visibility in empowering women in cybersecurity. Furthermore, her perspective on the challenges faced by small businesses highlights the necessity of integrating cybersecurity practices gradually and consistently. As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, the contributions of women and the resilience of small businesses will play a pivotal role in shaping a secure digital future.