Women and Girls in Cyber 2024

From the 13th to the 15th of August 2024, some girls and I represented the Computing Society at the Women and Girls in Cyber conference themed ’ inspiring the next generation: Empowering future women cyber security professionals’ hosted by the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA). The event was a remarkable opportunity to delve into the latest developments in cybersecurity, with a special focus on the role and empowerment of women in the field as well as men who are the allies.

1. Our Experience

The conference was an enriching experience, filled with insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and inspiring sessions. Our team actively participated in various sessions and talks that highlighted the importance of diversity in cybersecurity, the challenges women face in the industry, and the steps needed to overcome these difficulties. We also got thrilled to participate in a short exercise called catch the flag, where we had a hands on practice that gave us a feel of life of a cyber security professional.The atmosphere was vibrant, with many young women like ourselves eager to ace the challenges.

2. Key Takeaways

Advancements in Cybersecurity: We gained an understanding of the latest technological advancements, including the rise of artificial intelligence in security systems, the growing importance of data privacy, and the evolving nature of cyber threats.

Empowering Women in Cyber: “Even women can succeed in the cybersecurity world or in the tech world in general, because as long as you have a brain, then you are capable of doing everything you can imagine; nothing is beyond your limit”; Angella Khumula quoted from one of the speakers.

Challenges and Opportunities: The conference also addressed the challenges women face in cybersecurity, including lack of representation. However, it was inspiring to see the numerous initiatives aimed at overcoming these challenges, such as networking groups, scholarships, and professional development programs. Our friend Mercy Nagoli was honored to join Justice Zione Ntaba and honorable Fyness Mwagonjwa on panel discussion, outlining issues pertaining to cyber bullying. From this panel discussion, I learnt that we have to be proactive in safeguarding ourselves on the internet. ” If you cannot be proud of it anywhere else don’t share it! ” Justice Zione emphasized.

Networking and Collaboration: The event offered a platform to network with professionals and peers who share our passion for cybersecurity. We left with valuable connections that could lead to future collaborations and opportunities.One of the potential employers who was also one of the speakers highlighted that, employers are willing to recruit females but based on the skills that the female recruits are showcasing and not just because of the fact that they are ladies.This has left us with a lighting path to work on our skills as ladies who are aspiring to be cyber security and all other tech career professionals.

The Women and Girls in Cyber conference was a transformative experience for our team. We returned with not only a deeper knowledge of cybersecurity trends but also a renewed commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within our society. The lessons learned and connections made will guide our future initiatives and inspire more women to pursue careers in cyber security.