Her CyberTracks, a new initiative aimed at advancing women’s role in cybersecurity, is set to launch specialized training and mentorship programs tailored to address the gender gap in this critical field. The program, funded by the German Federal Foreign Office and the European Union, alongside contributions from Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will take place from May to October 2026. It targets women in the public sector and critical infrastructure across various regions, including Africa, the Western Balkans, and the Indo-Pacific, offering four distinct CyberTracks: Policy & Diplomacy, Incident Response, Criminal Justice, and Cybersecurity & Artificial Intelligence.
The need for programs like Her CyberTracks is underscored by the stark reality that women represent only about 24% of the cybersecurity workforce in 2024. Despite the increasing importance of cybersecurity in protecting human rights and ensuring a secure digital environment, women’s perspectives are often sidelined in international discussions and negotiations. This initiative seeks not only to promote equity but to enhance the development of inclusive policies and strategies that can address current cybersecurity challenges effectively.
Her CyberTracks aims to empower women through a structured curriculum that includes expert training sessions, mentorship opportunities, and networking events. The program will equip participants with both technical and soft skills necessary for a successful career in cybersecurity. The four core pillars of the curriculum—TRAIN, MENTOR, INSPIRE, and NETWORK—are designed to foster professional growth and establish a supportive community of women in the field.
Participants can choose from specialized CyberTracks based on their interests and career goals. The Policy & Diplomacy CyberTrack focuses on national and international cybersecurity policy, aimed at those interested in shaping policy discussions. The Incident Response CyberTrack offers foundational skills for technical profiles looking to enhance their capabilities in cybersecurity roles, while the Criminal Justice CyberTrack provides tools for law enforcement and legal professionals engaged in cybercrime investigations. The Cybersecurity & AI CyberTrack explores the intersection of these two fields, catering to women with an understanding of cybersecurity policy and a keen interest in artificial intelligence.
In addition to online coursework, the program includes a four-day on-site training featuring hands-on exercises, masterclasses, and networking opportunities designed to deepen participants’ understanding and engagement with the cybersecurity community. Mentees are required to commit to the full program duration, actively participate in online sessions, and complete both online and onsite trainings to earn a certificate, which involves approximately 15 hours of engagement per month.
Mentorship plays a crucial role in the program, with seasoned cybersecurity professionals invited to guide and support mentees through their journeys. Mentors are expected to allocate around four hours per month to assist their mentees, sharing their experiences and helping navigate the complexities of the cybersecurity landscape. The initiative encourages mentors of all genders to participate, reflecting a commitment to fostering inclusive support networks.
Applications for both mentees and mentors will be open until April 19, 2026. Interested participants are required to create an account on the ITU Academy platform to apply, while mentors can also submit their applications through a designated link. For further inquiries regarding the program, potential participants can reach out via designated email addresses provided in the program details.
The establishment of Her CyberTracks signifies a proactive effort to bridge the gender gap in cybersecurity, a sector that is increasingly recognized for its vital role in securing digital infrastructures and protecting human rights. By empowering women through education and mentorship, the initiative aims to cultivate a more resilient and diverse cybersecurity workforce capable of addressing the evolving challenges in this domain.
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