Canberra hosts inaugural Women in Cyber Day Awards

The Canberra Cyber Hub and Fujitsu Cyber Security Services hosted the inaugural International Women in Cyber Day Canberra Awards on 3 September 2024. The awards celebrate the exceptional contributions of women in the cyber security sector and underscore the importance of diversity in the industry.

This event, inspired by the global International Women in Cyber Day movement, aimed to bring together Canberra’s cyber security community. It recognised the women who excel in their fields while promoting inclusion and diversity across the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

Laura O’Neill, Head of Fujitsu Cyber Security Services, remarked, “It is fantastic to come together to celebrate the achievements of women in the cyber security industry and discuss how we can improve the industry.”

Five award categories were highlighted, each recognising various aspects of leadership, mentorship, and advocacy in cyber security. The Fujitsu Cyber Security Services' Cyber Leader of the Year Award was given to Davina Mansfield, acknowledged for her leadership and commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace. The Cyber Mentor of the Year Award went to Amy Roberts, recognised for her outstanding mentorship and support of women in cyber security. Laura O’Neill was celebrated with the Change Maker of the Year Award for driving transformative change by increasing the representation of women and diverse individuals within the sector.

Zoe Adam received the Cyber Catalyst Award as a rising star actively promoting diversity and inclusion initiatives. Dr Rosetta Romano was honoured with the Canberra Cyber Hub's Inclusion in Action Award for her efforts in creating an environment that embraces the talents of all individuals in cyber.

The awards breakfast also featured speeches from industry leaders, including Laura O’Neill, Lieutenant General Susan Coyle, Chief of Joint Capabilities at the Department of Defence, Jacqui Loustau, Founder and Executive Director of the Australian Women in Security Network (AWSN), Gai Brodtmann, Chair of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, Natalie Legg, CEO of A23, and Jessica Hunter, First Assistant Director-General of Access and Effects Operations at the Australian Signals Directorate. The speakers shared personal stories and insights, emphasising the role of diversity in fostering innovation and resilience within the cyber security sector.

The Canberra Cyber Hub and Fujitsu Cyber Security Services have announced their commitment to making the International Women in Cyber Day Canberra Awards an annual event. They aim to build on the momentum of this inaugural celebration, which marks a significant milestone in Canberra's journey towards becoming a national leader in both cyber security and gender diversity.