Technological advancements have transformed the way we live, work and socialize. From automating tasks at home and at work to making connections with a simple tap on the phone, these technologies have provided a myriad of solutions to navigate life easier. However, the increased use of technology can lead to higher risks of data breaches and cyberattacks. With the rapid growth of digitalisation, evolving digital threats have made cybersecurity more critical than ever.
The world of cybersecurity is so complex that one could get lost in the web of codes, protocols, and ever-evolving threats. Admittedly, when I was starting in this industry, I was intimidated by the technicalities of the technology and because of the predominantly male work environment. I sometimes felt excluded from conversations because I lack the knowledge in speaking the language. However, I knew that intimidation is a feeling emanating from a place of not knowing. So, I strived to equip myself with the essential knowledge necessary to thrive in the world of cybersecurity by applying for certifications in information technology and enrolling in programs centered on digitalisation.
With the skills I’ve learned, I started to feel more familiar in the field. However, at the back of my mind, I still felt like something was missing —my confidence. As the first female leader involved in cybersecurity at our Firm, P&A Grant Thornton, I felt immense pressure and often doubted my abilities, mainly because I lacked a female mentor who could understand my challenges and share my achievements within this male-centric field.
This experience is not unique to me as more women around the globe face similar setbacks in pursuing a career in cybersecurity. And this is demonstrated in a survey from Boston Consulting Group, where it stated that the lack of role models, discrimination, low sense of belonging and difficulty of access to resources are among key barriers why women feel less empowered in the field.
Overcoming the struggles and the goals I’ve reached in my career in cybersecurity, I've come to understand the crucial importance of having women in this often 'intimidating' field. Cybersecurity goes beyond protecting data and reinforcing international and national security against cybercrimes. It is essential that it is also incorporated in policies to address community-level repercussions, including harm and attacks in digital spaces.
These harms include harassment, sexual exploitation, abuse, trafficking and migrant smuggling of women through technology-facilitated violence. The United Nations underscored the need for an increased participation of women in cybersecurity and digital decision-making in addressing harms mentioned. Developing cybersecurity frameworks that include women and incorporate a gender perspective will ultimately reduce overall cyber risks.
As technology rapidly advances, cybercrimes become increasingly sophisticated. Consequently, the rising tide of cybercrime significantly amplifies the demand for a larger cybersecurity workforce. In 2021, global cyber economy research group Cybersecurity Ventures saw 3.5 million vacancies, with only 25% of women in the workforce. The 2025 Women in Business report from Grant Thornton International also revealed that in the Philippines, 34.1% of women hold Chief Information Officer roles, while 22.7% are in Chief Technology Officer roles. Emphasizing these statistics, women make up 25.93% of P&A Grant Thornton's Technology Solutions Group, while 46.15% of women are in Advisory Services’ Technical Consulting Group.
Encouraging more women to enter the field helps bridge this gap and ensures a more robust workforce through creating inclusive work environments, providing mentorship opportunities, promoting women into leadership positions, ensuring pay transparency and work-life integration. It is also important that companies consider a targeted approach to further attract women in cybersecurity roles through community building and tailored cybersecurity and technology courses for women. Companies must demonstrate that these careers are viable for women.
Diversity in cybersecurity is not just about gender equality; it is also about enhancing problem-solving capabilities. Like in any organisation and in any industry, it is important to have varying perspectives in a team as this will result in more innovative and well-rounded solutions.
Women, with their innate nurturing instincts, are valuable in the cybersecurity industry and this is further supported by a survey conducted by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2), where it revealed that “women wanted to work in a continuously evolving field (21%) where they could help people and society (16%) at significantly higher rates than men who responded (18% and 14%, respectively).”
Women often worry about their families, jobs and various other responsibilities simultaneously. This ability to juggle multiple concerns and challenges translates well to cybersecurity, where constant vigilance is crucial. Every day, new threats and complex cyber issues emerge, making it essential to have a mindset that is both skeptical and forward-thinking. Being able to consider all aspects of a situation and thinking ahead at all times are invaluable skills that women contribute to effectively addressing cybersecurity challenges.
Women’s innovative approach in problem solving, strong communication skills and critical attention to details are valuable competencies that women can contribute to the field of cybersecurity. And while we are continuously making innovative efforts to increase the number of women in the cybersecurity field, I believe there is still more work to be done. Through strategic and collective action, we can create a brighter future for cybersecurity. Let us commit to supporting and empowering women not only in this digital field but also in all facets of life, ensuring that their contributions are recognized and valued.
With this effort, I believe that we can shape future women leaders to become role models as well to young professionals, guiding and inspiring the next generation of cyber heroines. It’s time that we tap the potential of women and ensure that they lead a stronger and more resilient cybersecurity landscape for all.
As published in The Manila Times, dated 09 April 2025
