I’ve spent years travelling to conferences, events, and speaking engagements sharing insights on cyber security, AI, neurodiversity, and building inclusive security cultures. It’s been an absolute privilege to connect with so many brilliant people in our community, and I’m genuinely grateful for every opportunity I’ve had to contribute to the conversation.
But life has a way of reminding us what truly matters. Last Thursday I was supposed to speak at the CSO Summit and Awards, but I couldn’t be there after all. I absolutely HATE letting anyone down, and I am BEYOND grateful to the amazing Holly Foxcroft for stepping in and delivering my talk in my place. When the chips are down it warms my heart so much to know there are people in this amazing community who have my back.
But for 2026 and the foreseeable future, I’ll no longer be accepting in-person speaking engagements, paid or otherwise, unless they’re relatively local to me. I will however try my very best to attend conferences and events as a delegate, but I don’t want the added stress or pressure that being a speaker at them brings. I’d rather be able to come to things as a delegate but also have the option to not be there if I am needed more at home. For example, I have a ticket to Bsides London, and I still plan to attend provided the household is stable and well in a week or so’s time. But if for any reason they are not, I will release my ticket. Being close to home isn’t just a preference for me right now, it’s a necessity.
The reason behind this is actually because of my beloved dog Poppy, my 12-year-old German Shepherd/Husky cross who has already defied the odds more times than I can count. Last Sunday, she gave me yet another scare as she ended up at the emergency vets and then at our usual vets yesterday when she had to be admitted there for treatment. She’s stable now and seems to have bounced back already after her ordeal, but at her age, every day together is precious. I know that at age 12 she won’t be around forever, and I want to make the most of every day that I have with her.
As I’ve said in posts before, she has quite literally saved me, and I want to do everything I can for her and spend as much time with her as I can while she is still here, as I am painfully aware that her time with me will come to an end sooner rather than later. When the time comes that Poppy is no longer with me (something I don’t want to think about, but I know is inevitable), then things will change and I will be able to accept in-person speaking engagements again.
This however does NOT apply to anything speaking engagements wise that is virtual or online. I’m still here, still passionate about my work in cyber security, AI, neurodiversity and creating psychologically safe learning environments. I can deliver keynotes, workshops, panels, act as an MC or moderator/chair and conduct training sessions online just as effectively, and I’m excited to continue contributing to our community in that way.
This isn’t about stepping back from the work I love in any way. It is about being present for my Poppy because – and let me be clear – she is a member of my family. It is about me making the most of the time I still have with her while I still have it. And if my journey in this field has taught me anything, it’s that vulnerability isn’t weakness, and boundaries aren’t barriers, they’re essential.
Thank you for understanding, and if you’re organising an event and think I might be a good fit for a virtual speaking slot, I’d love to hear from you.
Photo of me and my beloved Poppy for the cuteness factor (Poppy of course who is super cute, not me).
