Announcing the Reissue of the “Rise of” and “Varied Origins” Series of Books

Announcing the Reissue of the “Rise of” and “Varied Origins” Series of Books

I’m also over the moon to announce that the books that I compiled:
 
The Rise of the Cyber Women: Volume 1
The Varied Origins of the Cyber Men: Volume 1
The Rise of the Cyber Women: Volume 2
The Rise of the Cyber Women: Volume 3
 
will be reissused and published by Security Blend Books on Saturday 8 March 2025, in line with this year’s International Women’s Day 😁 🎉
 
There will, however, be ONE very big key change with the reissue of these books. From Friday 7 March 2025, they will no longer be available to buy via Amazon Direct Publishing, and you will only be able to get them via the Security Blend Books website here https://securityblendbooks.com/collections/books.
 
So why the change?
 
Well, James Bore, the Founder of Security Blend Books, sums it up brilliantly in this blog. I happen to agree with it 100%, hence from 7 March these books will only be available to buy via the Security Blend Books website.
 
“The Varied Origins of the Cyber Men: Volume 2” will be released on 19 November 2025 (in line with International Men’s Day) and “The Rise of the Cyber Women: Volume 4” will be released on Sunday 8 March 2026 (in line with International Women’s Day), and further details of how to send a submission for inclusion will be released soon.
 
In the meantime, I want to take this opportunity to send a massive thank you to James and Security Blend Books, as it is the perfect home for the “Rise of…” and “Varied Origins…” series of books 😊 😊 
 
Poetry Book Launch Event and Signing: “The Show Must Go On” – In Conversation with Lisa Ventura MBE

Poetry Book Launch Event and Signing: “The Show Must Go On” – In Conversation with Lisa Ventura MBE

One of my lifelong dreams is finally being realised with the publication of my first poetry collection entitled “The Show Must Go On: A Journey Through Life in Poetry”.

The collection will be released officially on Thursday 3 April 2025 and on the same day I’ll be taking part in a book signing and “In Conversation With….” style event at Script Haven,  104 High Street, Worcester, WR2 2HW, starting at 7.30pm.

Hosted by Dan Levi Burton, there will also be special appearances and readings from Giovanni “Spoz” Esposito (former Birmingham Poet Laureate) and locally renowned poet Suz Winspear.

Tickets for the event, priced at £5.00, are available now via WeGotTickets via the link below:

https://wegottickets.com/event/649155

The official event write up is below:

Mark your calendars for an evening of inspiration and creativity as Lisa Ventura MBE unveils her first published poetry collection, The Show Must Go On. The event, taking place at Script Haven, 104 High Street, Worcester, will begin at 7:00 PM and promises a memorable blend of storytelling and community.

The Book

The Show Must Go On is a heartfelt and evocative collection that explores themes of resilience, loss, and hope. Lisa’s poetry delves into her personal journey of overcoming challenges, celebrating triumphs, and reflecting on pivotal historical events, such as the Twin Towers attack and the Aberfan disaster. Her work invites readers to discover their own strength and perseverance through life’s trials.

The Event

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Lisa Ventura MBE, an accomplished poet, journalist, and cyber security specialist who has made significant contributions to the literary and cyber security/tech worlds. So much so that not only has she won numerous awards for her work on the global stage in cyber security, but she was also awarded an MBE in King Charles III’s first birthday honours list in June 2023 for services to cyber security and diversity, equity, belonging and inclusion.

As a published and accomplished writer, Lisa is well known on the literary circuit having founded the Worcestershire Literary Festival in 2010. She has been writing ever since she could pick up a pen and put it to paper as a child, and in “The Show Must Go On”, Lisa brings her passion for storytelling and poetry to life.

The evening will feature:

  • An engaging conversation with Lisa Ventura MBE as she talks about the inspiration behind some of her poems included in the book, led by Dan Levi Burton.
  • Special performances by former Birmingham Poet Laureate Giovanni “Spoz” Esposito and former Worcestershire Poet Laureate Suz Winspear.
  • A chance to purchase signed copies of the book.

Whether you’re a poetry lover, a fan of Lisa’s work, or simply looking for an inspiring evening, this event is not to be missed.

Book Review: Secure by Choice by Sarah Aalborg

Book Review: Secure by Choice by Sarah Aalborg

As a Cyber Security Awareness Specialist, I’m always learning and looking for new things and ways to engage with those who don’t have cyber at the forefront of their minds to help them develop a security first mindset. Recently I’ve picked up some new gamification training methods and deeper analysis of the human brain and cyberpsychology, so when I heard about Sarah Aalborg’s new book it piqued my interest massively.

If you are interested in any way in the human aspects of cyber security, “Secure by Choice” by Sarah Aalborg is an absolute must-read. It provides a very insightful exploration into the impact of cognitive biases on security risk assessments, and it gave me some huge food for thought. For example, if you have ever wondered why you suddenly see ads following you around your web browsers and social media channels about the very things you are thinking about or searching for online, or if you have suddenly been bombarded with emails from online services when all you did was just browse a website and not by from it, you’ll find out in “Secure by Choice” why this happens.

Sarah Aalborg brilliantly illustrates how our brains are wired to apply biases, which often leads us to having skewed perceptions of risk. Throughout the book there are clear analogies and relatable explanations of why our brains apply these biases and what we can do about them from a security risk perspective.  There are also some fantastic insights on how we can gently encourage security behavioural change through understanding why people act the way that they do.

For security professionals seeking to enhance their decision-making processes, I cannot recommend this book enough Through understanding the psychological aspects that influence our risk perception, readers will learn and develop more effective strategies to manage and communicate security risks more effectively.

Sarah Aalborg brings complex psychological concepts to life in “Secure by Choice” and makes them more accessible, ensuring that the content in the book is both engaging and applicable to real-world security scenarios. It is a crucial resource for those who want to gain a better and deeper understanding of the interplay between cognitive psychology and security. If you want to make unbiased decisions that will help to strengthen the security posture of the organisation you work for, or if you are involved in or interested in cyber security awareness, social engineering and the human elements of cyber security, this book is for you.

To buy a copy of “Secure by Choice” from Security Blend Books, visit https://securityblendbooks.com/products/secure-by-choice

Embracing the Power of Diversity: The New DEIB Initiative at ICE Barcelona

Embracing the Power of Diversity: The New DEIB Initiative at ICE Barcelona

ICE Barcelona, the flagship event for the gaming industry, is based on being much more than just a place for excellence and innovation in gaming; they strive to be a community that reflects the diverse, inclusive, and equitable society they wish to build in the gaming industry. To this end, they have launched a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) initiative, a comprehensive effort to foster an environment where every individual in gaming feels valued, respected, and empowered. I’m proud to be an ally for the initiative and to be speaking at the event next year in January.

Why is the DEIB Initiative Happening at ICE?

Barcelona is a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and perspectives, and as an important global event ICE Barcelona is no exception. While ICE Barcelona celebrates this diversity, they also recognise the challenges that can come with it. Inequities, unconscious biases, and systemic barriers can unintentionally undermine the very values the gaming industry holds dear.

The DEIB Initiative at ICE Barcelona stems from their realisation that everyone in gaming must actively work to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has equal opportunities to thrive in the industry. Through addressing structural inequalities and creating a culture of belonging, the gaming industry not only aligns with global best practices but also uphold the values of fairness and mutual respect that is central to gaming.

Why is DEIB Important?

  • It empowers individuals: when people feel they belong, their confidence grows, creativity flourishes, and their ability to contribute meaningfully skyrockets.
  • It drives innovation: diverse teams outperform homogenous ones by bringing fresh perspectives and challenging assumptions—key ingredients for breakthrough ideas.
  • It helps to build a resilient community in gaming: an inclusive environment in gaming fosters trust, collaboration, and adaptability, enabling us to navigate challenges with unity and purpose.
  • It upholds global relevance: as the leading conference in the gaming space, ICE Barcelona must mirror the diversity of the global community it serves, ensuring that is prepared to lead in an interconnected world.

What Will the DEIB Initiative Include?

The DEIB initiative at ICE Barcelona will include:

  • A DEIB allyship programme: ICE Barcelona has asked some of the leading names in the gaming industry to become an DEIB ally for ICE Barcelona.
  • Meet ups: in collaboration with African Americans in Gaming and other leading associations in gaming.
  • Educational sessions: ICE Barcelona have put together a not to be missed programme of educational sessions on various aspects of DEIB including neurodiversity.
  • DEIB Vision Wall: ICE Barcelona will have a DEIB Vision Wall where organisations can pledge their commitment to DEIB initiatives in 2025 and beyond.

Towards a More Inclusive Future – Together

At ICE Barcelona, DEIB is more than an initiative; it is a strong commitment to shaping a better future in the gaming industry. To that end, I am very proud to work on this initiative with ICE Barcelona, drive it and deliver it during ICE Barcelona next month. I am also proud to become one of the DEIB allies for ICE Barcelona.

Through weaving DEIB principles into the DNA of ICE Barcelona, it is hoped that a ripple effect will be created, which will empower not only the gaming community but inspire other industries to champion diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Meet Me at ICE Barcelona in the DEIB Area

If you are going to be at ICE Barcelona on 20/21/22 January, I’ll be there in the DEIB area for all 3 days, and will be giving a talk on Tuesday 21 January 2025 at 14:15 to 15:30 entitled “Inclusive Brilliance: Why Embracing Neurodiversity in Gaming is a Game-Changer.” I’ll also be moderating a couple of panel discussions, and overseeing a DEIB vision wall at the event, so do stop by and say hello, I would love to meet you. I’m also very much looking forward to meeting my fellow allies at the event. Email me via enquiries@lisaventura.co.uk if you are going and would like to meet up with me there.

Let’s build a more inclusive future together 🌍

How to Become a Successful Cyber Security Specialist?

How to Become a Successful Cyber Security Specialist?

In an age where digital transformation permeates every facet of daily life, the role of cyber security has never been more crucial. Whether it’s protecting personal data, securing financial transactions, or safeguarding critical national infrastructure, cyber security is the gatekeeper of our digital world. With the rising threat of cybercrime, the demand for skilled cyber security specialists in the UK is soaring. If you’re contemplating a career that’s both impactful and future-proof, becoming a cyber security specialist might just be your calling. This guide will walk you through the steps to make this career a reality.

Understanding the Role of a Cyber Security Specialist

Becoming a cybersecurity specialist requires a unique blend of technical skill and strategic insight. At its core, a cybersecurity specialist is responsible for safeguarding an organisation’s digital assets, including protection against threats like email scams. This involves identifying vulnerabilities, implementing robust security measures, and responding to breaches. The role demands a deep understanding of network protocols, encryption techniques, and malware analysis.

Key responsibilities extend beyond mere technical functions. Specialists must also develop security policies, conduct risk assessments, and educate employees on best practices for better security.

Essential skills include problem-solving, analytical thinking, and a keen eye for detail. Soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, are equally important, as cybersecurity specialists often collaborate with diverse teams to maintain organisational security.

Educational Pathways

You might be wondering, “Can I become a cyber security specialist without a degree?” The answer is a resounding yes. While a degree in computer science or a related field provides a solid foundation, alternative routes are increasingly viable. Online courses and bootcamps offer intensive training and hands-on experience, equipping you with the skills needed to excel in cyber security.

In the UK, degree programs in cyber security abound, offering comprehensive curricula that cover everything from ethical hacking to cryptography. For those pursuing traditional education, recommended subjects include IT, mathematics, and computer science. Yet, the world of cyber security is constantly evolving, and self-motivated learning can be just as effective in staying ahead of emerging threats.

Essential Skills and Certifications

To thrive as a cyber security specialist, honing both technical and soft skills is essential. Certifications serve as benchmarks of competence and are highly regarded in the industry. In the UK, certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and CompTIA Security+ are esteemed credentials that enhance your employability.

While certifications underscore technical acumen, soft skills cannot be overlooked. Effective communication, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities are indispensable. Practical experience, whether through labs, simulations, or real-world projects, is invaluable in translating theoretical knowledge into actionable insights.

Steps to Become a Cyber Security Specialist

The journey to becoming a cyber security specialist involves a series of strategic steps. Start by gaining relevant education, whether through a degree programme or self-study. Engage in online courses, tutorials, and workshops to deepen your understanding.

Next, pursue certifications that align with your career goals. Certifications not only validate your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning. Creating a professional CV template that highlights your skills and certifications can help you stand out in the job market. Internships and entry-level positions provide hands-on experience, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Finally, network with industry professionals, attend conferences, and join cyber security forums to stay connected and informed.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Cyber Security Specialist?

The timeframe to become a cyber security specialist varies based on educational pathways and individual dedication. A degree program typically spans three to four years, while certifications can be earned in a matter of months. Accelerated learning paths, such as bootcamps, offer focused training and can fast-track your entry into the field. Ultimately, the timeline depends on your chosen route, prior experience, and the time you invest in gaining expertise.

What is the Annual Salary of a Cyber Security Specialist in the UK?

The annual salary of a cyber security specialist in the UK varies depending on factors such as experience, location, and specific role within the industry. Entry-level positions may start at around £25,000 to £35,000 per year, while experienced specialists can earn between £50,000 and £80,000 annually.

Those in senior or managerial positions may command even higher salaries, often exceeding £100,000. Additionally, professionals with niche skills or certifications tend to receive competitive compensation packages that reflect their expertise and contributions to safeguarding critical information systems.

Career Opportunities and Advancement

Cyber security offers a plethora of career paths, each with its unique challenges and rewards. From penetration testers to security analysts, roles within the field are diverse and cater to different strengths and interests. The potential for career advancement is substantial, with opportunities to progress to senior roles such as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).

Why become a cyber security specialist? Beyond job security and competitive salaries, the field promises intellectual stimulation and a sense of purpose. Protecting sensitive information and thwarting cyber threats is inherently rewarding, and many specialists find immense satisfaction in their work.

Challenges in the Cyber Security Field

The question often arises, “Is it hard to become a cyber security specialist?” Like any career, it comes with its challenges. The landscape of cyber threats is constantly shifting, requiring specialists to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies. The role demands perseverance, continuous learning, and the ability to adapt to new challenges.

The pressure to safeguard critical data and systems can be intense, but the sense of accomplishment in preventing cyber attacks outweighs the demands. Successful specialists thrive under pressure, possess a strong work ethic, and are driven by a genuine passion for cyber security.

Conclusion

In a world increasingly reliant on technology, the role of cyber security specialists is indispensable. By following the outlined steps and cultivating the necessary skills, you can position yourself for a successful career in this dynamic field. Whether you’re drawn to the technical intricacies, the thrill of problem-solving, or the opportunity to make a difference, cyber security offers a fulfilling and impactful path.

All it Takes is a Beautiful Fake Smile to Hide an Injured Soul: My Take On World Suicide Prevention Day

All it Takes is a Beautiful Fake Smile to Hide an Injured Soul: My Take On World Suicide Prevention Day

Today, Tuesday 10 September 2024, is World Suicide Prevention Day, and I’m going to share some truths with you all. You may not feel like they are truths, but truths they are.

You are far more resilient and strong than you realise, and you are never, ever alone ❤️

No matter how low you are feeling, no matter how hopeless and dark you think life is, there is ALWAYS a way out ❤️

You are loved, you matter and you have a purpose in life, even if you feel you don’t ❤️

But how do I know that these are truths? I’d like to share some of my own experiences with suicidal feelings in the hope that if just ONE of you who is feeling like I did sees this post and reaches out to me for support, it will be worth it.

Having been there SO many times in my life because of abuse, bullying and trauma I know exactly what it is like to want to just not be here anymore and to think there is no way out. I’ve experienced this in all areas of my life throughout my life from family, at school, at college, from so-called friends and in the workplace. There is not a single area of my life that I haven’t experienced bullying and abuse.

The last time I felt like that was December 2021. I remember sitting in my Aunty Lena’s house before she moved to Worthing crying my eyes out over how I was being treated, utterly convinced I had failed. But I hadn’t failed. I had BEEN failed by others, time and time and time again in my life. There is a HUGE difference.

I’m sure there is also a direct correlation with the amount of bullying and abuse I’ve had aimed at me in my lifetime and the fact I am neurodivergent. Numerous studies have shown that those of us who are neurodivergent are far more likely to be targeted by bullies and abusers, and suffer higher levels of anxiety, depression and imposter syndrome as a result. I always think of the line in the film “Cool Runnings”, “We’re different, people are always afraid of what’s different.” It is SO true.

Fast forward to today and I can’t believe the difference. I will never, ever let ANYONE make me feel like that ever again, EVER – I don’t care who they are. I also accept my neurodivergent differences 100%. If others can’t that is their problem, not mine. It says FAR more about the bullies and abusers that they choose to treat me appallingly than it EVER will about me. Ironically since December 2021 I’ve had the best time of my life, and I’m sure it is no coincidence.

I know first hand what the pain and desperation is like. I know first hand what the train of thought is like when you feel that you have no way out. I know first hand the feeling of thinking that everyone will be better off without me. I felt all that and more inside, but I masked how I felt, put on a smile and pretended to the world that I was okay when I wasn’t, hence sharing this quote from the late, great actor Robin Williams.

I want you all to promise me something. If any of you reading this blog ever feel like this, no matter what time of day or night it is, message me on here and talk to me. I am a qualified mental health first aider, something I did to be able to help others, because I don’t want a single one of you feeling the way I have and thinking you are alone – you are NOT alone.

I’m very lucky to have an incredible support network of friends who have become family who have helped me so much, and I’m here for anyone who needs the same. I hate thinking that any of you are suffering in silence, like I did. That support network has come from the most unlikely of people, who I now count as good friends ❤️

For those of you who have been there for me, I can’t thank you all enough, but now it is my turn. Let me #PayItForward ❤️❤️

#SuicidePreventionDay
#HereForYouAll