In a complex cyber threat landscape, increasing #diversity, particularly gender diversity, in

#cybersecurity contributes to stronger #cyberresilience and better security outcomes.

For those who may not yet be convinced of #dei (diversity, equity, inclusion) for its own sake, the panel discussion organised by the ISC2 Singapore Chapter, and moderated by yours truly, highlighted how diversity in cyber not only bolsters existing cybersecurity processes and outcomes, but also makes good business sense.

I had the opportunity to ask an amazing panel of women cybersecurity leaders Daisy Radford, Wendy Lim, Pauline Yam, and Cheri Lim, to share examples of how diversity had made a significant impact. Their answers included more strategic and creative decision-making, reduced bias in AI datasets, more empathetic and communicative leadership, and more attention to detail, among other things.

We also discussed what #actions could be taken at an individual, organisational, and industry level to ensure more women enter and thrive in cybersecurity roles. The panellists also highlighted their own efforts, such as sponsorship, mentorship, and the role of partnerships and allies.

Given the shortfall of more than 2 million cybersecurity workers in Asia, these and other efforts must be ramped up. And we need the whole cybersecurity community to play a part – after all, cybersecurity is a team sport!