Running from September 2024 to August 2025, Her Cyber programme adopts a holistic approach that focuses on:
- Educational pathways
- Individual awareness
- Challenging societal perceptions
The programme’s goal is not only to boost the number of women in cybersecurity, but also to inspire a cultural shift, one where gender diversity is embraced as a key asset in the field. Through targeted events, trainings and community engagement, Her Cyber works to build a more inclusive, skilled, and future-ready cybersecurity workforce in Albania.
Component 1: Attracting young women and girls to IT
Empowering the next generation of cyber security leaders – Cyber security clubs
Cyber security clubs in 10 Albanian high schools helped girls aged 15 to 18 build confidence, skills, and a vision for their future in the digital world. Key to success was approach through hands-on learning, mentorship and community-building.
Component 2: Supporting young women in transitioning to the cybersecurity workforce
Facilitating the transition of young women, aged between 20 and 29 years, into the labour market and providing them with avenues to access cybersecurity professions was a key focus of the program.
Cybersecurity Internship Scheme: In close collaboration with the IT industry, implemented specialized internship programmes, designed to specifically cater to recent graduates with an interest in pursuing a career in cybersecurity, aiming to expand their knowledge, skills, and overall career potential. This scheme empowered a cohort of 10 young women, equipping them with the practical skills, knowledge, and mentorship needed to thrive in the field of cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity Certification Scheme: This initiative involved providing participants with professional certification opportunities delivered by reputable UK providers listed under the UK National Cyber Security Council training scheme. The certification programme covered essential areas, including threat detection, risk assessment, security protocols, and incident response.
Networking Opportunities: Fostering connections among recent women graduates aspiring to pursue careers in cybersecurity. The goal was to facilitate meaningful interactions and engagements with professionals in the cybersecurity industry. Through this networking initiative, we have provided valuable guidance on career paths, job searches, and skills development.
Cybersecurity leadership training: A specialized programme tailored for ambitious, early to mid-career female professionals currently engaged in roles related to cybersecurity. The programme was crafted to empower and cultivate confident, capable, and motivated female leaders within the cyber security sector.
Component 3: Creating an ecosystem supportive of female participation in cyber security
Policy Seminar: Through fostering constructive dialogue and knowledge-sharing sessions, our goal was to collaboratively formulate policies that establish an enabling and supportive environment for women pursuing careers in cybersecurity.
Research Paper: In our dedication to cultivating a more supportive environment for women in cyber security, we have undertaken a comprehensive array of research initiatives with the potential to profoundly influence policies and other programme initiatives backed by diverse donors.
