Cybersecurity needs a larger female presence, according to AUSCERT's Bek Cheb's assertion.
Bek Cheb, a renowned figure in the cybersecurity world, has made significant strides in promoting diversity and inclusivity within the industry. With a career spanning over two decades, Cheb's journey began in event management before she stumbled into the cybersecurity field.
In the early days, Cheb attended the AUSCERT Conference as one of only a handful of women among 900 attendees. At the time, there were no women on the program and maybe a handful of female delegates. Fast forward to 2024, and Cheb's advocacy has led to 30% of AUSCERT conference attendees being female.
Cheb has been instrumental in transforming the AUSCERT annual conference, leading mental health initiatives, and creating diverse and inclusive environments. She is also known for her podcast hosting role at AUSCERT, although detailed information about her background and career paths prior to her role at AUSCERT remains scarce.
Cheb strongly believes that representation and outreach are key to driving change in the cybersecurity industry. She emphasises the importance of making sure well-qualified women in the industry feel valued for their contribution. Imposter syndrome, she believes, should not hold women back in the cybersecurity industry.
Cheb champions various strategies to drive change. These include showcasing role models, integrating cybersecurity into high school curriculums, and attracting mid-career professionals from other disciplines. She also believes that flexible working arrangements are crucial, especially for women with domestic or child-rearing responsibilities.
The cybersecurity industry, according to Cheb, needs greater diversity in all areas, including management, marketing, finance, and human resources. She notes that many women in the field leave after four years due to work-life balance struggles and industry culture. The 24/7 culture, job design, and work commitments in cybersecurity make it difficult for women with domestic or child-rearing responsibilities to achieve work-life balance.
A report from RMIT University in 2023 found that women make up 17% of Australia's cybersecurity workforce. Cheb's advocacy, along with her public speaking and leadership, has educated thousands on online safety and data privacy, aiming to bridge this gap.
In 2024, Cheb was awarded the MVP of the Security Industry at the Australian Women in Security Awards, recognising her unwavering dedication and significant contributions to the industry. However, Cheb is against inviting women to the conference solely for the purpose of achieving a certain gender ratio. Instead, she focuses on ensuring that all attendees, regardless of gender, have a valuable and inclusive experience.
Cheb's journey serves as a testament to the progress made in the cybersecurity industry over the years. While significant strides have been made, Cheb believes that there is still further to go in achieving true diversity and inclusivity. Her work continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations in the industry.
