The cybersecurity profession is at a pivotal moment. As digital ecosystems rapidly evolve and threats grow more sophisticated, the need for diverse talent, perspectives and skill sets has never been greater.

That is why the launch of the Global 50x50 Initiative powered by the Center for Cyber Safety and Education, a collective commitment to reaching 50 percent women in cybersecurity by 2050, marks a significant milestone. At the center of this movement are organizations dedicated to empowering women and creating pathways into the cybersecurity profession around the world.

ISC2 hosted a panel discussion celebrating the launch of the Global 50x50 Initiative. Dwan Jones, Director of Inclusive Strategies and Engagement at the Center for Cyber Safety and Education, served as moderator and was joined by three leaders whose organizations are presenting partners of the global initiative dedicated to empowering women and creating pathways into the cybersecurity profession around the world:

  • Nina Olesen, Deputy Secretary General, Women4Cyber Foundation
  • Krista Kaszycki, Chief of Staff, Latinas in Cyber
  • Mari Galloway, CISSP, CEO, Women’s Society of Cyberjutsu, 2026 ISC2 Board of Directors

Together, they shared insights on challenges, opportunities and the collective action needed to reshape the cybersecurity workforce for generations to come.

Why 50x50 Matters

The initiative is rooted in a simple truth: digital resilience depends on diverse teams. Without tapping into half the world’s potential talent pool, the global cybersecurity community will continue to struggle with skills shortages.

As Olesen explained, that realization was central when @Women4Cyber was founded in 2019: “If we weren’t going to tap into half of the available talent pool, we weren’t going to make it in terms of bridging the workforce gap.”

The Global 50x50 Initiative brings together governments, nonprofits, schools, allies and industry leaders to drive systemic change.

The Barriers Women Face in Cybersecurity

While the field has expanded, the panelists emphasized that women still face persistent barriers throughout the full career lifecycle, from awareness to advancement:

Awareness (Krista Kaszycki, Latinas in Cyber)

  • For many girls and women, cybersecurity is not introduced early or clearly as a career path.
  • “Do you even know this exists as a career? And once you do, how do you find your footing?”
  • Kaszycki said that lack of awareness and support are the biggest barriers, especially for communities with very low representation.

Opportunity (Mari Galloway, Women’s Society of Cyberjutsu)

  • Even when women gain the skills, breaking into roles remains difficult. Galloway said, “We have so many talented people ready for these jobs but they’re not given the chance.” She continued to underscore the need for employers to think beyond traditional hiring pathways.

Visibility and Role Models (Nina Olesen, Women4Cyber Foundation)

  • Without visible women in technical, nontechnical and hybrid roles, girls and women struggle to see themselves in the field. Visibility is critical. It helps women identify career pathways and counter feelings of intimidation or imposter syndrome, Olesen said. Across Europe, where Women4Cyber Foundation operates, representation is even lower than global averages, making visibility essential.

Why These Organizations Joined the Movement

Each leader shared why their organization became a presenting partner, and their reasons closely aligned.

Collaboration is Essential

No single group can solve a global workforce shortage. “It can’t just be one group trying to change the numbers,” Galloway said. “We don’t have enough people in one organization. I’m excited to work with all the groups and allies to drive this mission.”

It’s a Global Workforce Issue

“This is not simply a women’s issue,” Kaszycki said. “This is a global workforce issue and it requires global strategic thinking.”

It Strengthens Security

This initiative supports economic and infrastructure resilience, not just representation. “If we want to protect our economy and infrastructure, we need everyone on board bringing all skill sets,” Olesen commented.

What Excites Partners Most About the Global Initiative 50x50

Momentum around the initiative continues to grow.

  • Global Cooperation: Connecting regional and local efforts creates real movement.
  • Ally Support: Many attendees at the launch event were men, signaling cultural progress.
  • Action over Awareness: The initiative funds, builds and scales solutions.
  • Youth Engagement: Students are central to long-term change.

“This isn’t an initiative of feeling. It’s an initiative of action.” - Krista Kaszycki

How You Can Join the Movement

Individuals and organizations can support 50x50 in several ways:

  • Partner with the Center for Cyber Safety and Education (ISC2’s charitable arm): Collaborate on programming, events, training or advocacy.
  • Sponsor the Initiative: Invest to expand global access to cybersecurity training and career pathways.
  • Volunteer Your Time: Mentor, speak, teach or support community programs.
  • Donate: Funding directly supports women entering and advancing in cybersecurity.
  • Stay Connected: Join the community for updates on programs, progress and opportunities.

Learn more at https://www.iamcybersafe.org/s/50x50

Key Takeaways

The panel closed with three themes that will guide the movement:

  • Visibility: Women must see other women succeeding and leading in cybersecurity.
  • Opportunity: Talent exists everywhere, but opportunity does not. Expanding access is essential.
  • Support and Showing Pp: As Kaszycki said: “Support and show up. Period.”

The initiative depends on allies across the ecosystem.

A Collective Call to Action

The launch of 50x50 signals a bold movement to build a more resilient, innovative and inclusive cybersecurity workforce. Reaching 50 percent of women in the cybersecurity workforce by 2050 will not be easy. However, with global collaboration, shared purpose and sustained work, it is possible.

As Galloway said: “Don’t just come here and make a pledge. When you leave, actually do the work.”

Building a secure digital future requires everyone, every skill, every background and every voice.

Global 50x50 Women’s Summit

Taking place on March 18, 2026, the Global 50x50 Women’s Summit is a virtual event which will bring together women and allies from every corner of the cybersecurity ecosystem to explore how inclusive leadership, intentional sponsorship, and meaningful mentorship open doors to opportunity and reshape the talent pipeline.

Supported by ISC2 and The Centre for Cyber Safety and Education, this event builds on the work of the Global 50x50 Initiative towards a future where women make up 50% of the cyber workforce by 2050. The Summit will highlight the actions needed to create a more resilient and sustainable cybersecurity workforce for all.

By attending this live event, you are eligible to receive 3.5 CPE credits. Additional credits can also be earned with on-demand viewing.

Find out more and register now.

Related Insights