I am absolutely thrilled and deeply honoured to share that I’ve been shortlisted for the Outstanding Woman in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) award for the West Midlands at The Women’s Awards 2025.
This recognition feels particularly meaningful as someone who entered the cyber security industry back in 2009 when it was still in its infancy. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the incredible growth and evolution of the STEM sector, particularly in technology and cyber security.
More Than Personal Achievement
This recognition is not just a personal achievement, it highlights the vital importance of encouraging more women to pursue careers in STEM fields. I hope my journey can inspire other women to see that there are no barriers to what we can achieve in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Having been honoured with an MBE in King Charles III’s birthday honours list in 2023 for services to cyber security and diversity/inclusion, this shortlisting reinforces my commitment to championing diversity and inclusion within the technology industry. Through the newly established AI and Cyber Security Association, I will continue to ensure that the next generation of women feel empowered to make their mark in STEM.
My Work and Mission
My work focuses on the human factors of cyber security, cyberpsychology, neurodiversity and AI in cyber, while also providing crucial cyber security awareness and culture training to organisations across the UK. It’s rewarding to see this recognised by The Women’s Awards, which celebrate the regional contributions of women across the Midlands through rigorous judging by expert panels.
Looking Forward to the Awards
The Women’s Awards 2025 Gala Awards Evening will take place on Friday, October 3rd, 2025 at the IXL Events Centre in Warwickshire. The event promises to be a wonderful celebration bringing together outstanding women from across the East and West Midlands, featuring a three-course meal, awards presentation, and valuable networking opportunities.
This shortlisting adds to my growing list of accolades, including my recent Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Information Security and multiple industry awards recognising contributions to the cyber security sector. But more importantly, it represents the collective progress we’re making in encouraging women’s participation in STEM fields.
Whether I win or not, being recognised alongside such incredible women across various sectors, from STEM and business to healthcare, education, and community service, is an honour in itself. We’re all working to make significant impacts in our respective fields and communities, and that collective effort deserves celebration.
A Message of Inspiration
To any women reading this who are considering a career in STEM, I want you to know that there truly are no barriers to what we can achieve. The technology industry, particularly cyber security, needs diverse voices and perspectives now more than ever. Through my work with the AI and Cyber Security Association, I’m committed to creating pathways and opportunities for the next generation of women in STEM.
Thank you to everyone who has supported my journey. This recognition motivates me to continue championing diversity and inclusion while working to keep our digital world safe and secure.
For more information about The Women’s Awards 2025, visit www.thewomensawards.com.
