Aston University’s Cyber Security Innovation (CSI) Research Centre has supported this year’s National Cyber Diversity Awards, which aim to raise awareness of under-representation of ethnic minorities in the cyber security sector.
Only 25% of the cyber professionals in the UK are from ethnic minorities. The EMiC (Ethnic Minorities in Cyber) Network, which runs the Awards supported by the UK Government’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, is addressing this significant gap, contributing to national policymaking, providing feedback and insight to proposed policy interventions and strategies.
The CSI Centre sponsored the ‘Cyber Diversity Academic Champion Award’ which recognises an individual who has made significant advancements in research, teaching and advocacy for diversity in cyber security education and academia.
Dr Ismini Vasileiou won and was presented the award by CSI Centre deputy director, Dr Anitha Chinnaswamy. Dr Abdullahi Arabo was highly commended in the category.
The awards, which took place on Tuesday 5 March 2024 at The Halls Wolverhampton, brought together industry leaders, professionals, advocates and allies to honour those who are actively championing diversity and have made significant contributions to the cyber security field.
Dr Anitha Chinnaswamy, deputy director of the CSI Centre at Aston University and steering group member of the Ethnic Minorities in Cyber network, said:
“Congratulations to Dr Ismini Vasileiou and Dr Abdullahi Arabo.
“It was a pleasure to be sponsoring this category at the National Cyber Diversity Awards 2024.
“These awards highlight the importance of diversity in the industry and will help to inspire others to create a more inclusive and representative cyber community.
“Aston University is leading the way in racial diversity, and inclusion is at the heart of our 2030 Strategy. The Centre’s work continues to be strongly aligned with the pillars of the National Cyber Strategy 2022 to enhance and expand the nation’s cyber skills at every level and contributing to a more diverse cyber workforce.
“By recognising and celebrating diverse talents, experiences and perspectives, we can foster innovation and excellence in cyber security, ensuring that our digital future is shaped by a rich tapestry of voices and backgrounds.”