Campaign launches to inspire girls towards cyber

A new campaign has launched in the North East to inspire young girls to pursue careers in cyber security. 

With just 17 per cent of cyber security roles held by women nationally, the campaign aims to address this gender imbalance by empowering careers advisors and teachers with the tools to support female students in entering the industry.

The ‘Influencing the Influencer’ initiative, backed by North East mayor Kim McGuinness and funded by Innovate UK, includes a signposting portal (now live) offering valuable resources and case studies.

It also features webinars and events with female leaders in cyber security to raise awareness and showcase role models. 

Officials say the campaign will highlight the diversity of opportunities in the sector and break down barriers caused by a lack of visible female figures in the field, with the overarching aim to “nurture and inspire the next generation of future female cyber security leaders from the region”.

Mayor McGuinness said: “I’m delighted to see the launch of this campaign; my vision for the North East is for it to be known as the home of real opportunity, and a region where everyone thrives.  

“Cyber security is a thriving sector in the region, and working closely with the education sector and schools is crucial. 

“Visible female role models in the sector can inspire girls to enter the industry and send a clear message that the sector is open to them too, not just boys. 

“I want more people to see they can have successful careers in the North East, and projects like this are vital to highlight and showcase the opportunities for the next generation, especially in a sector where female representation is significantly lower.”

With 15 pathways into the industry, the initiative hopes to change perceptions and drive more young women in the North East toward careers in cyber security.

Danielle Phillips, chief executive of CyberNorth, added: “Knowledge is key. 

“There are thousands of STEM graduates in the region each year, but not all stay, the next generation need to know about the opportunities that are in our region and the pathways into the cyber security field, especially girls. 

“Diverse teams produce better results and lead to problem-solving and innovation, we all need to work together in collaboration to take action to close this gender discrepancy in a sector which is thriving and offers unlimited opportunities. 

“Through this campaign we are determined to nurture and inspire the next generation of future female cyber security leaders from the region.”

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