CyberLab Partners with Women in Tech North: Careers in Cyber Security
International Women’s Day 2025: Accelerating Action for Women in Cyber
Last week, Women in Tech North, in collaboration with CyberLab, hosted an inspiring event in Manchester to mark International Women’s Day 2025.
The event focused on driving awareness of careers in cyber security, highlighting the importance of visibility, mentorship, and flexible work policies to support women in tech.
Elena Doncheva, Marketing Director at CyberLab, hosted a panel discussion featuring three accomplished women in the cyber sector Kate Smyth (Healey), Mid-Market Sales Director, NEMEA at Sophos, Yessika Tatiana Gamboa, Cyber Risk Analyst at Cydea and Anna Dyson, PhD Researcher at Lancaster University.
Non-Traditional Career Paths
The panellists shared their diverse journeys into cyber security, reinforcing that technical backgrounds are not the only pathway into the field. From international relations and drone research to risk analysis and sales, their stories demonstrated that cyber security thrives on varied perspectives and expertise.
How Businesses Can Support Women in Cyber
The discussion emphasised the need for companies to actively support women by implementing flexible work arrangements, mentorship programs, and more inclusive hiring practices.
Overcoming Bias and Promoting Career Growth
Despite progress, only 22% of the cyber workforce is female according to UK Cyber Security Council research – significantly lagging behind other digital sectors. The panel encouraged women to embrace personal PR, actively seek mentorship, and take ownership of their career progression.
Practical Career Support
After the panel, attendees had the opportunity to join a CV advice session led by Mimi Rostron, People Manager at CyberLab, to gain practical insights into standing out in the job market. The session reinforced the importance of networking, self-advocacy, and resilience in career advancement.
Becoming an Ally
Adam Myers, Sales Director at CyberLab, shared that for allies in the industry, small actions can have a significant impact:
• Amplify women’s voices in meetings and projects: communicate openly, positively, honestly and constructively.
• Advocate for inclusive hiring and mentorship opportunities: growth creates opportunity for everyone to progress their career, to develop knowledge and skill, to gain reward and recognition and to maximise their potential.
• Call out biases and challenge systemic barriers within the workplace: challenge those whose behaviour or attitude does not support an inclusive culture.
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