In June, we celebrate the history, triumphs and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community and recognize ongoing efforts towards equality and acceptance for all. In celebration of LGBTQIA+ Pride Month, we are spotlighting ISC2 volunteer and global cybersecurity leader, Dr. Safi Mojidi, and his tremendous work promoting inclusivity in the cybersecurity industry. Safi is the founder of Hacking the Workforce, a nonprofit organization that aims to improve the health, wealth and security of the LGBTQIA+ community through offering apprenticeships and career opportunities in cybersecurity.
With more than 15 years of experience working at the intersection of identity, security and privacy across multiple sectors, Safi has been a driving force in the tech industry with a keen eye for building pathways and collaborative networks. His expertise spans business development, workforce strategy and community building, and he currently offers his knowledge to organizations as a cybersecurity advisor. Driven by his strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, Safi has implemented impactful initiatives that promote LGBTQIA+ inclusion within several organizations, including advocating for more inclusive organizational policies, establishing employee resource groups and providing LGBTQIA+ awareness training.
As a partner with ISC2, Hacking the Workforce shares the goal of diversifying the cyber profession and making the workforce more accessible to job seekers from marginalized communities. “I want to remove barriers and create opportunities for employment in cybersecurity, centering those who live at the intersection of marginalized identities,” Safi said. ISC2’s mission to cultivate a secure cyber world by certifying cybersecurity professionals worldwide deeply resonates with Safi and his organization. “Collaborating with ISC2 provides Hacking the Workforce with visible support and helps us amplify our impact and access more diverse talent pipelines.” 
Safi’s volunteerism stems from his personal experience navigating barriers in the tech industry as a trans person of color. “I’m passionate about empowering my community to seize opportunities, increase their health outcomes and live full lives while securing a good job,” Safi said. He hopes that through his volunteerism he can serve as a role model and inspire change, and above all fight against systemic inequalities by platforming diverse leaders, providing inclusive mentorship and encouraging greater self-determination. “Everyone should be able to thrive regardless of their circumstances and together we can champion inclusivity and empowerment,” he said.
LGBTQIA+ Pride Month holds immense personal significance to Safi as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and he feels that the month is “a time to celebrate our identities, honor our history and advocate for continued progress toward equality.” Safi celebrates the month by remembering activists and trailblazers who fought for LGBTQIA+ rights, supporting events that create safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals to connect and encouraging everyone to embrace their authentic selves. “Pride Month is a powerful reminder that love, diversity and human rights should be celebrated and protected,” he said.
Safi encourages LGBTQIA+ professionals looking to enter the cybersecurity field to start by volunteering, as it can be incredibly valuable when trying to secure a role. Volunteering is excellent for gaining industry knowledge and practical skills, honing your leadership capabilities and building your professional network through connecting with peers and mentors. “Volunteerism allows you to build a strong and diverse range of skills while making a positive impact on others,” he said. Offering your personal experiences and knowledge to organizations that support the LGBTQIA+ community is another great way to give back, as many individuals lack access to cybersecurity resources, training and representation within the field. “Volunteering is beneficial for uplifting communities and contributing to a just and equitable future for everyone.”
- Learn how you can be an LGBTQIA+ ally this Pride Month and beyond with this helpful ISC2 toolkit.