By Tannu Jiwnani.
Cybersecurity is one of the most dynamic and fast-growing fields in technology, with an ever-evolving landscape of threats and challenges. However, despite its vast potential, it remains an industry that is difficult for many to break into, especially for women. The barriers, both visible and unspoken often feel insurmountable, with limited representation, a lack of mentorship, and pervasive stereotypes. For those without direct access to networks or resources, the path to entering cybersecurity can seem unclear and intimidating. Yet, the opportunities for those who dare to push through these barriers are immense, and the need for diverse perspectives in this field is more critical than ever.
A journey of dedication and growth
Tannu discovered her passion for cybersecurity while working in her early roles. Despite facing challenges, she persevered, honing her skills through formal education and practical experience. After coming to the U.S. for her master’s degree in information systems and Operations Management, she began working at the college, developing online courses for students. It was here that she was exposed to the power of cybersecurity. Her career took a pivotal turn when she landed a role in cybersecurity, where she was introduced to cloud technologies and identity access management tools. This experience sparked her interest in the evolving field of cybersecurity, paving the way for her entry into the cloud industry, where she learned more about combating and fighting threat actors.
Working in incident response and cybersecurity provided Tannu with the opportunity to collaborate with some of the industry’s brightest women and contribute to developing advanced cloud security technologies that businesses worldwide now use to safeguard their customers from threat actors.
Mentorship and advocacy
In addition to her leadership, Tannu Jiwnani is a passionate advocate for mentorship. She mentors women from diverse communities through the Global Give Back Circle, guiding them into the cybersecurity field and helping them gain the confidence to pursue successful careers. Tannu also actively engages with women in security chapters, emphasizing the importance of supporting women at every stage of their careers. She says,
“Mentorship is about helping women build confidence, not just technical skills. We need to create networks where women feel empowered to succeed.”
Through her work with organizations like Women in Security and Privacy (WISP), which she is working to launch a Seattle chapter soon, Tannu has been instrumental in participating in mentorship programs and providing resources for underrepresented groups in cybersecurity. She believes that by increasing representation, we can create a more secure and inclusive tech future. Her dedication to mentorship and diversity is evident in her role as a member of several advisory boards for identity and cybersecurity initiatives. Additionally, her involvement in scholarship committees with WISP and her collaboration with ISACA have empowered her to review over 50 applications for women seeking cybersecurity opportunities.
Shaping the future of cybersecurity
Tannu’s commitment to mentorship and diversity is further demonstrated by her work with the Global Give Back Circle, where she has mentored young women and guided them into the cybersecurity field. Tannu Jiwnani has also contributed to shaping security policies and frameworks at as an advisory board member to The Identity Underground, ensuring that diverse perspectives are incorporated into the development of global security systems.
Tannu’s advice to young girls who are considering a career in cybersecurity is simple but powerful
“I want young girls who are interested in cybersecurity to know that they belong here. It’s an industry full of opportunity, but it’s also one that needs their unique perspectives. No matter the challenges you face, keep pushing forward. The future of cybersecurity depends on you and your voice matters,” she states.
Her work has not only contributed to Microsoft’s security landscape but has also made a lasting impact on the broader cybersecurity community. Tannu Jiwnani’s leadership and dedication to empowering women in cybersecurity serve as an example of the change that is possible when we challenge the status quo and break down the barriers that limit our potential.
