Cybersecurity doesn’t have a gender, but it certainly has a gender imbalance.
With women representing only about 15% of the security workforce in North America, how do those who break into this field navigate its challenges and find their unique path to success?
Jurgita Lapienytė, Chief Editor at CyberNews, never imagined herself working in cybersecurity. After a decade in business journalism, she took a leap of faith when someone saw potential in her that she hadn’t yet recognized in herself. Five years later, she leads a team of 12 journalists, bringing complex security concepts to audiences worldwide.
“The biggest challenge was always me,” Jurgita reveals, discussing how imposter syndrome and perfectionism initially held her back. Her unconventional solution? Running a marathon – something that seemed impossible – to prove to herself that with consistency and determination, any challenge could be overcome. This mindset shift transformed not just her personal confidence but her professional trajectory.
What makes Jurgita’s perspective particularly valuable is her understanding that the cybersecurity field needs more than just coders. As AI reshapes the landscape and quantum computing looms on the horizon, the industry desperately needs diverse thinkers who can translate technical concepts, advocate for ethical implementation, and build bridges between technology and humanity.
For women and other underrepresented groups considering cybersecurity careers, Jurgita offers refreshingly practical advice: “Be the advocate for yourself first. No one’s going to do anything for you.” While finding your community is essential, ultimately each person must be willing to step into uncomfortable zones and become the example they wish to see.
Ready to challenge your assumptions about what a cybersecurity professional looks like? Listen now and discover how your unique perspective might be exactly what the industry needs.
