Black Hat(HER): What This New Platform Means to Me as a Woman in Cybersecurity

Black Hat recently announced Black Hat(HER), a new global platform focused on supporting, connecting, and elevating women in cybersecurity.

As a woman in this industry, the announcement immediately caught my attention.

Not because women need another reminder that we belong here. We already know that.

What stood out to me was the recognition that entering cybersecurity is only the beginning. Women also need access, visibility, meaningful connections, and opportunities to advance once we are here.

Black Hat(HER) plans to support women at different stages of their careers, from emerging professionals to executives, through networking, career development, event access, and support for Black Hat Briefings applicants.

That matters because visibility can change the direction of someone’s career.

A speaking opportunity can build confidence. A conference connection can lead to mentorship, sponsorship, collaboration, or a new role. Seeing another woman share her technical expertise can inspire someone else to finally share her own.

Through my work in cybersecurity education and the Women’s Society of Cyberjutsu, I have seen what happens when women are given real support.

They apply.

They speak.

They lead.

They become the representation they once needed.

That is why this announcement feels meaningful to me.

I am hopeful about what Black Hat(HER) could become, but I am also interested in the impact beyond the announcement. Will more women gain access to Black Hat events? Will more women be selected to present? Will the relationships created through this platform lead to real career opportunities?

Those are the outcomes worth watching.

Black Hat(HER) will not solve every challenge women face in cybersecurity, but it is a step toward recognizing that women need more than a seat in the room.

We need the opportunity to shape what happens inside it.

As a woman in cybersecurity, this makes me feel seen.

As a community leader and educator, it makes me feel encouraged.

And as someone committed to opening doors for other women, it makes me want to learn more.

This announcement is worth more than a quick scroll.

Read the full Black Hat(HER) announcement and see what this new platform could mean for women across cybersecurity.

Women are not simply joining the future of cybersecurity. We are already helping build it.