Elevate - Women in Tech

In this episode of the Elevate Women in Tech podcast, host Kellie Kwarteng engages with cybersecurity professionals Lisa Ventura MBE FCIIS (founder of Cybersecurity Unity), Richard Wilson (Group Head of Information Security at Spirax Group), and Amelia Hewitt (founder of Hewett Partnerships Limited and Cybaid) to explore the critical importance of genderDiversity in cybersecurity.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Business Case for Diversity: Statistics show cybersecurity teams with above-average gender diversity are 35% more likely to identify novel attack vectors and 21% more effective at detecting security incidents before significant damage occurs.

Recruitment Challenges: With women making up just 22% of the UK cybersecurity workforce and only 19% of FTSE 100 CISOs, the panel discusses the substantial skills gap in the industry and explores how to attract diverse talent through skill-based hiring rather than focusing solely on traditional qualifications.

• Early Education Misconceptions: Amelia shares how career perceptions form as early as age seven, emphasising the need to introduce cybersecurity concepts in primary education and challenge stereotypes about required skills for the profession.
• AI and Diverse Teams: The panel examines how diverse teams create more resilient security solutions by challenging assumptions, avoiding groupthink, and spotting blind spots in systems - particularly vital when developing AI security measures.
• Retention Strategies: The conversation highlights the importance of retention through inclusive policies like caregiver allowances, flexible working arrangements, and benefits that support all employees' needs, not just parents.

Featured Insights:

• The myth that cybersecurity requires a strong technical background prevents many talented individuals from applying
• AI bias in recruitment tools may be filtering out qualified candidates from underrepresented groups
• The cybersecurity threat landscape is evolving, requiring diverse perspectives to anticipate and counter new attack vectors
• Creating truly inclusive workplaces requires understanding what different employees actually want, not making assumptions

Why Listen:

This episode delivers practical advice for organisations seeking to address the cybersecurity skills gap by attracting and retaining diverse talent. For individuals considering a career in cybersecurity, the panel offers encouragement to look beyond traditional pathways and recognise the value of varied skills and perspectives in the industry.

Listen now to discover how gender diversity creates stronger cybersecurity teams and what actions you can take to break the binary in your organisation.

Keywords:

Gender equity, cybersecurity, diversity, recruitment, retention, women in tech, skills, talent attraction, neurodiversity, AI in cybersecurity, career pathways, inclusive workplace, skills gap

In this episode of the Elevate Women in Tech podcast,host Kellie Kwarteng interviews Rebecca Taylor, a Threat Intelligence Knowledge Manager at SecureWorks a Sophos Company, who was recognised as Computing's Security Woman of the Year 2024 and Most Inspiring Woman in Cyber 2024. Rebecca shares her remarkable journey from being a personal assistant to becoming a cybersecurity expert, demonstrating that non-traditional backgrounds can thrivein the industry.

Key Highlights:

• Rebecca reveals her 11-year career path from PA to Threat Intelligence Knowledge Manager
• The conversation challenges persistent myths about cybersecurity careers, including that you need to be technical or have loved STEM subjects from childhood
• Rebecca explains threat intelligence as "anything that pertains to our understanding of the threat," and demystifies the "dark web" using an iceberg analogy
• The discussion explores how women currently make up 25% of the global cybersecurity workforce
• Rebecca shares insights from her TEDx talk "Digital Shadows" about the dangers of premature digital footprints for children
• Revealing her upcoming book "Securely Yours, An Agony Aunt's Guide to Surviving Cyber" (OUT NOW)

Why Listen:

This episode offers a refreshing perspective on cybersecurity careers, making the field accessible to listeners from allbackgrounds. Rebecca's journey proves that passion, core skills, and willingness to learn can overcome traditional barriers to entry. The conversation provides practical advice for anyone interested in cybersecurity while delivering eye-opening insights about online safety that are relevant to everyone.

Tune in to discover how your unique skills might translate to cybersecurity, understand the realities of the dark web, and learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones in the digital age.

Relevant links:

•  SANS Institute - https://www.sans.org/cybersecurity-focus-areas/
• UK Cyber Security Council - Career Pathways - https://www.ukcybersecuritycouncil.org.uk/careers-and-learning/cyber-career-framework/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20404142818&gbraid=0AAAAApflzhayqCu2PW75Lq-Qx8Z43XTOH&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIpKzhtvSejQMV9JNQBh2MWjdPEAAYASAAEgIS3_D_BwE
• Securely Yours - Book link - https://amzn.eu/d/1pVjhTv
• TedX – Digital Shadows https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyfhkfE3nHA

Empowering Women in Tech: Sharon Moore MBE's Journey

In this episode of the Elevate Women in Tech podcast, host Kellie Kwarteng sits down with Sharon Moore, MBE - CTO for public sector in the UK at IBM technology - to explore leadership, innovation, and inclusion in the technology industry. With over 20 years of experience across outsourcing, consulting and sales, Sharon shares insights from her remarkable career and her passionate advocacy for women in tech.

Key Topics Covered:

• Technology Leadership Role: Sharon leads industry-specific technical vision for IBM in the public sector, helping with business development while getting "to the heart of government" to understand what they want to do and share where IBM has a vision for how technology can help make government better and more effective for everybody.
• Career Milestones and Challenges: Sharon shares pivotal moments including graduating with a first in software engineering, meeting mentors who shaped her path as an architect, and transitioning from outsourcing to consulting to sales while maintaining her technical focus. She admits she "didn't realise that I was a woman in tech for quite a while" but gradually became aware of unconscious bias and microaggressions many face.
• Creating Inclusive Communities: Sharon's advocacy began with creating communities where women could feel they belonged in the industry: "It really started for me about creating communities and hopefully safe spaces where women could get together and feel like they belonged so that we could keep them in the industry."
• Diverse Teams and Innovation: Sharon emphasises how diverse teams improve problem-solving: "When we work in diverse groups, we think through a problem more, we bring more angles to a problem. So we're more likely to come up with some of the gotchas that otherwise we wouldn't have come up with."
• Professional Development through BCS: As a trustee of BCS, Sharon discusses how the Chartered IT Professional (CITP) certification provides "that independent standard that shows your competence, your professionalism, your accountability, your credibility in the industry."
• Mentorship vs. Sponsorship: Sharon distinguishes between mentors who provide guidance and sponsors who advocate for you when you're not in the room: "There absolutely have been people who have been voices for me when I've not been in the room."
• Advice for Women in Tech: Her guidance includes: "Grab every opportunity that you can because who knows what things will come to you... but the learning to say no is we do need to get boundaries." She also cautions against being pigeonholed into stereotypical roles expected of women.
• Vision for the Future: Sharon envisions a more inclusive tech industry: "Diversity is not about creating conflict... We want justice for everyone. I would like to see us in a world five to 10 years time where we're embracing that even more."

Featured Insights:

• The value of creating communities for women in technology
• How BCS provides professional development and networking opportunities
• The importance of the CITP certification for establishing credibility
• The critical distinction between mentorship and sponsorship
• How diverse teams create more innovative solutions

Why Listen:

This episode provides valuable perspectives for both women navigating careers in tech and leaders committed to creating more inclusive environments. Sharon's journey offers practical insights on building resilience, finding community, and driving positive change in the technology sector.

Keywords:

Leadership, Technology, Women in Tech, Diversity, Inclusion, IBM, Public Sector, Advocacy, Career Journey, Mentorship, BCS Women, CITP Certification, Diversity in Tech, Mentorship, Sponsorship, Women in IT, Professional Development, Inclusion, Career Growth, Networking

Listen now to discover how Sharon Moore's journey can inspire your own path in technology and inclusion.

Networks of Power: Building Resilient Communities in an Era of Pushback

In this episode of the Elevate Women in Tech podcast, host Kellie Kwarteng sits down with Dr. Vanessa Vallely, OBE - pioneering founder of We Are the City and We Are Tech Women - to explore how resilient networks are empowering women and underrepresented groups in tech during a time of significant social and corporate pushback.

Key Topics Covered:

• Shifting DEI Landscape: Vanessa discusses the rebranding of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives as organizations face cultural and political resistance. Despite changing terminology, the need for support and safe spaces for underrepresented groups remains critical.

• The Importance of Networks: The conversation highlights why women’s and gender networks are more vital than ever, providing safe spaces, mentorship, and opportunities for connection beyond the workplace. Vanessa emphasizes the power of mixed-gender events and the crucial role of male allyship in driving progress.

• Challenges in Tech and STEM: The episode addresses concerning trends, such as declining numbers of girls in STEM subjects and the underrepresentation of women in AI and cybersecurity. Vanessa and Kellie underscore the importance of early inspiration, diverse role models, and accessible pathways into tech careers.

• Mentorship vs. Sponsorship: Vanessa argues that while mentorship is valuable, sponsorship - where leaders actively advocate for and open doors for women- is essential for real advancement. She shares practical examples of how sponsorship accelerates careers and builds future leaders.

• Building Resilient Communities: The discussion covers strategies for sustaining momentum in gender equality work, even as organizations face economic and political pressures. The role of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), in-person events, and cross-industry collaboration is explored as key to collective resilience.

• Actionable Advice: Listeners receive concrete tips for building career strategies, expanding networks, and leveraging both mentorship and sponsorship. Vanessa encourages continuous learning, amplifying quieter voices, and fostering a culture of allyship across all levels of tech organizations.

Featured Initiatives:

• We Are Tech Women’s global events, including One Tech World, Tech Women 100 Awards, and Women in Tech Week, are spotlighted as platforms for connection, learning, and recognition.

• Ongoing research and advocacy to address barriers to women’s progression into senior tech roles, with a focus on the economic benefits of gender diversity.

Why Listen:
This episode is essential for tech professionals, DEI advocates, and organizational leaders seeking to understand the evolving challenges in gender equality and how resilient networks can drive sustainable change. Learn how to build supportive communities, foster allyship, and take practical steps to ensure everyone in tech can thrive- even in an era of pushback.

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Connect with your Host Kellie Kwarteng - Founder and CEO of Halzak - 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲𝘀

Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.

Keywords:
Women in tech, DEI, gender equality, resilient communities, tech networks, male allyship, mentorship, sponsorship, AI diversity, cybersecurity, We Are Tech Women, career advancement, Employee Resource Groups, inclusive leadership, STEM pipeline, workplace culture.

Listen now to discover how resilient networks are shaping the future of tech and what you can do to be part of the change.

Join host Kellie Kwarteng and guest Professor Liz Bacon, Principal and Vice Chancellor of Abertay University and former BCS President, for an inspiring conversation about professional standards, technological innovation, and the transformative power of professional recognition in tech.

From her early days in programming to becoming a leading voice in technology education, Liz shares her journey of breaking barriers and championing professional excellence in the tech industry.

Key highlights:

• The significance of Chartered IT Professional (CITP) registration
• How professional certification validates technical expertise and ethical standards
• Breaking barriers for women in technology and STEM
• Navigating career growth through voluntary roles and professional engagement
• The transformative potential and challenges of Artificial Intelligence
• Importance of continuous professional development in tech
• How professional bodies like BCS support technology professionals at all career stages

Liz offers candid insights about her remarkable journey from a programming enthusiast to an academic leader, sharing practical strategies for professional growth and the critical role of ethical standards in technology.

Whether you're starting your tech career, looking to advance your professional recognition, or wanting to understand the future of technology, this episode provides actionable insights for breaking through barriers and achieving your goals.

𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘦𝘱𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘥𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT. Join BCS to apply for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) - the only Chartered IT registration validating your technical expertise and accountability in tech. Find out more at bcs.org/trustyou

Useful resource links:Connect with Professor Liz Bacon - LinkedInBritish Computing Society (BCS) - Professional Registrationhttps://www.abertay.ac.uk/https://www.abertay.ac.uk/

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Connect with your Host Kellie Kwarteng - Founder and CEO of Halzak - 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲𝘀Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.

Join host Kellie Kwarteng and guest Michael Kwarteng, co-founder of Halzak and the Elevate Women in Tech community, for a powerful International Men's Day special episode about breaking the silence around prostate cancer. In this unique men's takeover episode, Michael bravely shares his journey as a prostate cancer survivor at age 47, transforming his experience into vital advocacy for men's health.

Key highlights:

Michael offers candid insights about his journey from diagnosis through recovery, sharing both the physical and emotional challenges of his experience. His story demonstrates why health advocacy knows no gender and how breaking silence saves lives.

Whether you're a man over 40, have a family history of cancer, or want to support the men in your life, this episode provides crucial information about prostate cancer awareness and the importance of early detection.

Support our cause:

We're raising £250 for Prostate Cancer UK to help support families facing this challenge. Every donation helps provide vital support services and advance research.

Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/elevatewit-173038854001?utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=page%2Felevatewit-173038854001&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=pfp-share

Useful resource links:

Connect with Michael Kwarteng - LinkedIn

Contact Prostate Cancer UK:

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Connect with your Host Kellie Kwarteng - Founder and CEO of Halzak Connecting diverse talent with inclusive tech companies

DM me if you would like to:

This special episode demonstrates how when we empower any group to take charge of their health, we all rise together. Let's continue breaking down barriers and supporting each other, regardless of gender.

Join host ⁠⁠Kellie Kwarteng⁠ ⁠and guest ⁠Natasha Barker⁠, Domain Architect at Matalan and Drapers 30 Under 30 honoree, for an inspiring conversation about building confidence, breaking barriers, and thriving in tech leadership.

From graduating as a junior infrastructure architect to becoming a influential domain architect, Natasha shares her journey of transformation and the power of saying "yes" to opportunities.

Key highlights:

Natasha offers candid insights about her transformation from an unconfident graduate to a respected technical leader, sharing practical strategies for career advancement and the importance of building professional networks.

Whether you're starting your tech career, looking to step into leadership, or wanting to boost your professional confidence, this episode provides actionable advice for breaking through barriers and achieving your goals.

𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘦𝘱𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘥𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 ⁠BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT⁠. Join BCS to apply for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) - the only Chartered IT registration validating your technical expertise and accountability in tech. Find out more at ⁠bcs.org/trustyou⁠

Useful resource links:

Connect with Natasha Barker - ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

British Computing Society (BCS) - ⁠Professional Registration⁠

⁠Drapers 30 Under 30 Class of 2024⁠

Be sure to Follow Elevate- Women in Tech on

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Connect with your Host Kellie Kwarteng - Founder and CEO of Halzak - 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲𝘀

Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.

Join host Kellie Kwarteng and guest Joanne Monk OBE, an independent consultant and LGBTQ+ advocate, for a powerful episode exploring transgender identity and workplace inclusion. This candid conversation follows Joanne's inspiring journey of transition and her dedication to creating more inclusive environments for the transgender community.

Key highlights:

Joanne shares invaluable insights on supporting transgender employees, creating inclusive workplace policies, and the importance of belonging in organizational culture. Whether you're a member of the LGBTQ+ community, an ally, or an employer, this episode offers practical guidance for fostering truly inclusive environments.

Be sure to Follow Elevate- Women in Tech on⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Newsletter⁠

Connect with your Host Kellie Kwarteng - Founder and CEO of Halzak - Connecting companies with diverse technical talent

Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.

Join host Kellie Kwarteng and guest Robert Baker, board member of UN Women and European Women on Boards, as they explore the crucial role of male allyship in creating a more inclusive tech industry. This insightful episode unpacks how men can effectively support and champion women in tech, while addressing the barriers that often hold them back.

Key highlights:

Robert shares valuable insights on transforming workplace culture, building trust, and creating environments where women want to stay and contribute. Whether you're a male ally, aspiring to be one, or a woman in tech looking to build stronger partnerships, this episode offers practical advice for fostering truly inclusive environments.

Useful resource links:

Connect with your Host Kellie Kwarteng - Founder and CEO of Halzak - Connecting companies with diverse technical talent

Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.

Join host Kellie Kwarteng and guest Louisa Hussey, menopause coach and women's health advocate, as they shatter the stigma surrounding menopause in the tech industry. This candid episode explores how perimenopause and menopause impact women's careers and why it's crucial to create supportive work environments.

Key highlights:

Louisa shares invaluable insights on managing symptoms, boosting confidence, and thriving in your career during menopause. Whether you're a woman in tech, a colleague, or an employer, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration for fostering truly inclusive environments.

Discover how addressing menopause openly can transform company culture, retain top talent, and elevate women in tech leadership roles. Don't miss this crucial conversation on breaking down barriers and empowering women in the tech industry.

Useful resource links:

Free Symptom Tracker
https://louisahussey.myflodesk.com/symptomtracker

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisahusseyeft/

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Connect with your Host Kellie Kwarteng - Founder and CEO of Halzak - Connecting companies with diverse technical talent

Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.