2025 Winners

This page is dedicated to honoring the exceptional achievements of our community’s most remarkable individuals, groundbreaking initiatives, and outstanding organisations. On this page, we proudly present a lineup of winners, highly commended honorees, and recipients of special recognition awards who have made invaluable contributions to our community. These awards are a testament to their dedication, passion, and the positive impact they’ve had on the world around them. Join us in celebrating and acknowledging the extraordinary accomplishments of these inspiring individuals, innovative initiatives, and outstanding organisations.

MVP OF THE IT SECURITY INDUSTRY. – Proudly sponsored by Source2Create

WINNER: Craig Ford

Craig Ford truly embodies what it means to be a leader, innovator, and champion for positive change in cybersecurity. With more than two decades of experience spanning blue, red, and purple teams, he has done it all. Building robust security frameworks for leading organisations, founding his own company, and continually raising the bar for security, education, and inclusion.

Craig is not only a best‑selling author but also a driving force for cyber education, empowering everyone from schoolchildren to seniors with the knowledge to stay safe online. His leadership extends deeply into our professional community as a Director of the Australian Information Security Association, keynote speaker, and strong advocate for open knowledge sharing.

He dedicates his time to mentoring newcomers, supporting industry awards and initiatives, and ensuring that cybersecurity becomes more accessible, inclusive, and human. Always leading with empathy and a vision for equity, Craig has been a tireless advocate for women, non‑binary individuals, and underrepresented voices in our industry.

It is my absolute honour to recognise his immense achievements, but also to celebrate the way he uplifts others, making every day in cybersecurity matter more for all of us. Craig, you are the benchmark for true impact.

Congratulations Craig!

BEST VOLUNTEER. – Proudly sponsored by Source2Create

WINNER: Sarah Barnbrook

For outstanding voluntary service advancing cybersecurity and online safety in Australia. You have empowered underrepresented communities, championed digital wellbeing and safety by design, and through tireless leadership and education, influenced policy, equipped thousands with vital skills, and inspired lasting positive change toward a safer, more inclusive digital future.

Congratulations Sarah!

THE ONE TO WATCH IN PROTECTIVE SECURITY – Proudly sponsored by Sekuro

WINNER  – Felicity Le

For exceptional leadership, scholarship, and dedication as an emerging intelligence professional. Through national awards, research, and pioneering initiatives, you have advanced opportunities for students and early‑career professionals. A true role model, you champion development, build community, and inspire engagement, signalling a bright future in Australia’s national security.

Congratulations Felicity!

Highly Commended: Kylee Dennis

A rising star, recognised for outstanding leadership and innovation in protective security. Through your pioneering, trauma‑informed approach, blending investigative expertise with empathy and digital insight, you have empowered countless Australians to guard against online threats, scams, and abuse. Your courage, commitment, and vision are shaping a safer, more resilient future for all.

Congratulations Kylee!

BEST SECURE CODER – Proudly sponsored by CYBER CX

WINNER: Neelkamal Gaharwar

For outstanding expertise and leadership in secure coding. You have identified critical vulnerabilities, driven remediation, and set benchmarks for secure software development. Through continuous learning, mentoring, and promoting security‑first cultures, you have elevated organisational resilience and inspired excellence, advancing safer software in Australia and beyond.

Congratulations Neelkamal!

THE BEST PROGRAM FOR YOUNG INDIVIDUALS IN SECURITY  – proudly sponsored by Australian Signals Directorate

Highly Commended: The Summer of Cyber Program

In recognition of innovative leadership empowering women and gender‑diverse individuals to launch and grow cybersecurity careers. This program bridges academic study and industry needs through practical projects, mentoring, and inclusive support, especially for women and career changers in regional areas, transforming pathways, building confidence, and strengthening cyber governance for small businesses across Victoria.

Congratulations AWSN!

WINNER: La Trobe Cybersecurity program

The La Trobe Cybersecurity Program has created inclusive pathways, innovative learning opportunities, and pioneering peer and industry mentoring, impacting thousands across Australia. Through visionary leadership and a collaborative community, the program equips students with real-world skills, confidence, and industry connections, fostering the next generation of diverse cybersecurity professionals.

Congratulations to La Trobe!

BEST SECURITY STUDENT – Proudly sponsored by Source2Create

Highly Commended: Belinda Zhou

For your outstanding achievement and leadership as an emerging cybersecurity professional.

You consistently deliver excellence, advancing risk management, audit, and compliance standards while fostering inclusivity in both practice and community. Through your visionary leadership in QUT Women in Tech, industry outreach, and mentorship, you are shaping a more secure, ethical, and inclusive cybersecurity future for all.

Congratulations Belinda!

WINNER: Mila Fisher

For your outstanding achievement and leadership as an emerging cybersecurity professional.

You have demonstrated exceptional resilience, academic excellence, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion within the industry. You have excelled in real-world security projects, advocated for accessible pathways, and inspired peers through your leadership and community engagement. Your dedication, vision, and passion signal a bright future and significant contributions to Australia’s cybersecurity community.

Congratulations Mila!

MOST INNOVATIVE EDUCATOR IN CYBERSECURITY – Proudly sponsored by Fujitsu

Special Recognition: Laura Christie from Bupa

In recognition of your pioneering, human‑centred approach to cybersecurity education, making it accessible and engaging through storytelling, hands‑on learning, and practical insight. Beyond Bupa, your leadership and collaboration have strengthened security culture and set a new benchmark for how cybersecurity can inspire, connect, and empower diverse communities.

Congratulations Laura! 

Highly Commended: Adara Campbell from TAL Australia

You have transformed cybersecurity awareness at TAL through creative, inclusive, and evidence-based approaches. You’ve pioneered tailored cyber training for financial advisers, delivered multi-format education to thousands of employees and partners, and championed behavioural change resulting in measurable risk reduction. Your initiatives have bridged the gap between technical and non-technical audiences, making cybersecurity accessible and relevant to all. Your vision, dedication, and pioneering methods are shaping a resilient, security-minded culture that extends from the workplace to the wider community.

Congratulations Adara! 

WINNER: Girls Talk Cyber

For your pioneering, relatable approach to cybersecurity education.

Girls Talk Cyber breaks new ground by transforming technical topics into engaging, accessible conversations for all. Your ability to simplify complex cyber concepts using everyday analogies, story-sharing, and tailored digital content, empowering listeners from all walks of life is highly commendable. Your innovative methods have inspired thousands to build better cyber habits, and raised national awareness. You are redefining how cybersecurity is taught, making online safety approachable, inclusive, and part of everyday life.

Congratulations Emily & Julia!

CHAMPION OF CHANGE – Proudly sponsored by Source2Create

Highly Commended – Rhys Shobbrook

Through personal mentoring, transformative programs, and your advocacy for inclusive recruitment and progression, you have uplifted not only women, but also migrants, neurodiverse students, and others from underrepresented backgrounds. Your initiatives supporting countless graduates into industry roles and leadership positions is transformative. You area true role model for demonstrating how real inclusion unlocks the potential and performance of students and staff across all communities.

Congratulations Rhys!

WINNER – Jakub Zverina

For your exceptional leadership and sustained advocacy for gender equality, diversity, and inclusion within cybersecurity.

Your ability to drive policy and cultural change all the while advancing inclusive initiatives, championing industry standards, and forging impactful partnerships is truly commendable. Your mentoring, public advocacy, and education, has empowered so many women and underrepresented groups, influencing organisational policies, and shaping the national conversation on equity in technology. Your vision, dedication, and courage continuing to remove barriers and inspire systemic, sector-wide transformation for a fairer, more inclusive future are what make you a standout winner.

Congratulations Jakub!

UNSUNG HERO – Proudly sponsored by TAL Australia

Special Recognition: Steph Burr

In recognition of your exceptional and selfless contributions to advancing cybersecurity in regional Tasmania and beyond.

As a Senior Security Researcher, mentor, and driving force behind SecTalks Hobart, you have gone above and beyond your professional role, volunteering  time to build an inclusive, supportive, and skilled security community. Your quiet leadership, commitment to diversity, and tireless support for newcomers have uplifted countless individuals and strengthened the local and national industry. Your humility, technical excellence, and compassion set her apart as a true Unsung Hero in Security Excellence.

Congratulations Steph!

Highly Commended: Kim Chandler McDonald

You have set new standards for ethical, privacy-first cybersecurity, bringing transformative solutions to underserved communities worldwide. Your commitment to building secure platforms and forging impactful, cross-sector collaborations, from international policy to grassroots mentoring and digital rights advocacy you have made cybersecurity more accessible and inclusive. Your selfless dedication ensures that the benefits of security reach everyone, not just the privileged few, truly marking you as an Unsung Hero shaping a safer, fairer digital world.

Congratulations Kim!

WINNER: Tracey Edwards

In recognition of your exceptional and selfless leadership in security.

You have shaped national strategy, pioneered pathways for women, championed neurodiversity, mentored aspiring professionals, and shaped security programs now emulated across Australia. Your humility, dedication, and tireless commitment to inclusion have uplifted countless individuals, strengthened organisational security, and advanced a more ethical, diverse, and resilient sector. Tracey your selfless dedication and quiet heroism have changed lives, inspired change, and truly embody the spirit of the Unsung Hero in Security Excellence Award.

Congratulations Tracey!

BEST INDUSTRY INITIATIVE FOR DIVERSITY, INCLUSION, AND EQUALITY – Proudly sponsored by Source2Create

Highly Commended: Telstra Internship Program

Your Internship Program is a transformative initiative that has created new career opportunities, enriched workforce diversity, and brought fresh thinking to the sector, with the use of world-class technical and professional training, By investing in a new pipeline of women talent and changing mindsets around recruitment, you are helping to build a more equitable, resilient, and innovative security profession for Australia.

Congratulations Telstra!

WINNER: AWSN Women in Security Mentoring Program

By championing digital equality, offering cutting-edge and human-centred solutions, and creating new pathways for women to thrive and lead, the AWSN Mentoring Program has had a profound and enduring impact, transforming individual lives and advancing the entire security community towards a fairer and more inclusive future. Empowering over 1,200 women and industry professionals nationwide, providing structured, supportive mentoring, innovative digital matching, and an inclusive community is what makes this program a stand out winner.

Congratulations AWSN, ASD and OK RDY

BEST IN QUANTUM CYBER CHAMPION – Proudly sponsored by Source2Create

WINNER: Sushmita Ruj

For your visionary leadership and pioneering research at the intersection of quantum computing and cybersecurity.

Your collaborative work with academic, industry, and government partners worldwide has significantly strengthened the security and resilience of digital ecosystems, anticipating future threats with excellence. As an outstanding mentor and advocate, you have played a pivotal role in educating future leaders, raising awareness, and advancing Australia’s quantum-safe cybersecurity strategy. Thank you for your dedication to strengthening global cyber defences and inspiring excellence in the quantum era.

Congratulations Sushmita!

AI in CYBER CHAMPION – Proudly sponsored by Source2Create

WINNER: Ganna Pogrebna

For visionary leadership and groundbreaking innovation at the nexus of AI and cybersecurity.

You have transformed the secure, ethical, and inclusive use of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity. Through the development of explainable AI-driven digital twins that bolster cyber defences, and the advancement of insider threat detection using inclusive behavioural science, your pioneering efforts stand out. Your influence and advocacy are driving educational advancement and empowering underrepresented voices, ensuring that AI enhances security and serves the greater good.

Congratulations Ganna!

PROTECTIVE SECURITY CHAMPION- Proudly sponsored by Source2Create

WINNER: Adrienne Maxted

In recognition of your outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to empowering women and non-binary individuals in the protective security industry. Through mentorship, advocacy, and inclusive initiatives, breaking barriers, nurturing new talent, and creating opportunities for underrepresented groups you have championed diversity, fostered meaningful opportunities, and inspired lasting change across the profession.

Congratulations Adrienne!

CONVERGED SECURITY RESILIENCE CHAMPION – Proudly sponsored by Convergint.

WINNER: Maryam Shoraka

For your exceptional leadership and pioneering efforts in converging cyber and physical security. Through innovative strategies, cross-domain collaboration, and a commitment to holistic risk management, you have set new benchmarks for resilience across critical infrastructure and government environments, strengthening the security and safety of both digital and physical assets.

Congratulations Maryam!

BEST SECURITY MENTOR – Proudly sponsored by Fujitsu

Highly Commended : Sanja Petrovic

For your outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to building an inclusive, high-performing cybersecurity team. Through your visionary strategy, dedication to mentorship, and genuine passion for empowering diverse talent, you have established new benchmarks for excellence and positive impact across the security industry. Your ability to cultivate an environment of continuous learning, personal growth, and true workplace flexibility has inspired your team and the broader community, setting a lasting example of modern, values-driven cybersecurity leadership.

Congratulations Sanja!

WINNER: Giuliana De Bellis

For your exceptional dedication to mentoring the next generation of women and non-binary talent in security. Through your hands-on education, personalised guidance, and tireless advocacy, both in your professional role and as a Security Industry Representative for the Girls’ Programming Network, you have shaped pathways for aspiring security professionals, fostered confidence through approachable mentorship, and inspired lasting change towards diversity and excellence in the cybersecurity sector.

Congratulations Giuliana!

BEST PLACE TO WORK IN SECURITY – Proudly sponsored by Source2Create

Special Recognition: ANZ Group Cyber Security Team

We commend you for your global programs, proactive sponsorships, flexible working practices, and robust education on bias and inclusion, you have built a workplace where diversity is celebrated and opportunity is accessible at every level. Your leadership, policies, and active culture of allyship set a strong example for the industry, empowering your team, driving positive change, and shaping a safer, more inclusive future for cyber security. Thankyou for your outstanding commitment to creating an inclusive, equitable, and supportive environment.

Congratulations ANZ!

Highly Commended: Solis Security

Through purposeful gender diversity, flexible work arrangements, career development opportunities, and proactive DEI policies, you have created a supportive environment where women and non-binary individuals thrive in technical, leadership, and security roles and this is highly commendable. Your dedication to eliminating bias, fostering psychological safety, and supporting neurodiversity sets a high standard for the industry. By championing mentorship, wellbeing, and community pathways, you have shaped a culture where every team member can grow, belong, and contribute meaningfully to a safer, more inclusive future in security.

Congratulations Solis Security!

Highly Commended: Grant Thornton Australia

In recognition of your dedication to advancing gender equity and fostering a truly inclusive, diverse, and psychologically safe workplace. Through your strategic DEI initiatives and GEAP, you have increased representation, championed allyship, and inspired inclusive leadership at every level. Your commitment is reflected not only in measurable results but also in national recognition. By removing structural barriers and promoting equity, you have set a strong example of progress and positive impact in the security sector.

Congratulations Grant Thornton Australia!

WINNER: Phronesis Security

In recognition of your steadfast dedication to creating an inclusive, equitable, and empowering environment within the security sector. Your organisational culture nurtures and supports team members at every stage of life, advocates for pay equity, offers flexible career pathways, encourages proactive mentorship, and ensures all voices are heard and respected. We commend your commitment to compassion, flexibility, and allyship. You have established a new standard for thriving in the security industry, inspiring meaningful, positive change across the industry.

Congratulations Phronesis Security!

CYBERSECURITY CHAMPION – Proudly sponsored by Source2Create

Special Recognition: Carla Tulloch

In recognition of your creativity, dedication, and outstanding achievements in cybersecurity. You have reshaped global cybersecurity awareness by designing engaging and accessible programs and resources that empower over 100,000 employees and safeguard millions of customers. As a woman who has successfully transitioned into cybersecurity, you have broken barriers and inspired women and non-binary individuals to pursue and excel in this field. Your efforts have set new benchmarks for inclusion, vigilance, and excellence, making cybersecurity more approachable and attainable for everyone—a truly commendable accomplishment.

Congratulations Carla!

 Highly Commended: Belinda Noel

For your exceptional leadership and visionary advocacy in operational technology (OT) cybersecurity. You have not only advanced innovation in protecting critical infrastructure, but have also created inclusive platforms that unite, inspire, and empower professionals nationwide. Through tireless mentorship, pioneering community-building, and the development of sector-focused training, your work has transformed the landscape of OT security, championed diversity, and provided vital support to women and underrepresented groups. You are a true Cybersecurity Champion.

Congratulations Belinda!

WINNER: Nikki Saunders

For your outstanding leadership and transformative advocacy in cybersecurity, both within Schneider Electric and across the industry.  Your mentorship and tireless championing of women and non-binary individuals have built stronger, more inclusive teams and inspired the next generation of cybersecurity leaders. By pioneering new services, achieving extraordinary business growth, and empowering diverse voices, you have set a benchmark for excellence and inclusion, reshaping the future of cybersecurity with lasting impact.

Congratulations Nikki!

NEURODIVERSITY IN CYBERSECURITY EXCELLENCE CHAMPION – Proudly sponsored by Source2Create

WINNER: Sam McGillian

In recognition of your outstanding leadership and advocacy for neurodivergent inclusion in cybersecurity. Through your openness, mentorship, and unwavering support, you have empowered colleagues to embrace their neurodiversity and built a more inclusive, understanding, and compassionate culture at CyberCX and beyond. You make people feel truly seen, heard, and valued. And by sharing your journey and inspiring positive change, you have set a powerful example of courage, kindness, and excellence, helping to shape a future where every neurodivergent individual can belong and thrive.

Congratulations Sam!

BEST USE OF AI IN CYBERSECURITY EXCELLENCE CHAMPION – Proudly sponsored by Source2Create

WINNER: Asou Aminnezhad

In recognition of your outstanding leadership in developing and securing a clinical-grade, AI-powered cancer detection platform that sets new benchmarks for ethical and effective AI use in cybersecurity, transforming an innovative deep learning OCT solution into a patent-ready, enterprise-grade system for early, accurate melanoma detection, while ensuring safety, trust, and compliance from start to finish. Your technical achievements, mentorship, and industry advocacy are empowering many across the sector. Your accomplishments are truly commendable.

Congratulations Asou!

AUSTRALIA’S MOST OUTSTANDING IN PROTECTIVE SECURITY – Proudly sponsored by Source2Create

 Highly Commended: Niamh Cunningham

In recognition of your outstanding leadership, innovation, and commitment in building Canva’s comprehensive protective security program from the ground up, spanning physical and cyber domains worldwide. Through visionary frameworks, robust risk processes, and proactive education, you have empowered diverse teams, fostered a resilient security culture, and ensured safe operations across global campuses and events where there was little to no prior security framework. As a pioneering leader, collaborator, and mentor, you have set new industry standards for excellence and are a role model for the future of protective security.

Congratulations Niamh!

 WINNER: Hayley van Loon

You have consistently redefined the standards of safeguarding people, organisations, and critical infrastructure. With a strong commitment to inclusive leadership, you have championed the advancement of women and non-binary professionals in frontline security roles, built groundbreaking teams, and guided the next generation of protective security leaders. By leading with clarity, inclusivity, and a steadfast dedication to real-world impact, you have set new benchmarks for excellence, ethical conduct, and resilience in the field—showing that true leadership is measured by the people you empower and the positive change you create in the industry.

Congratulations Hayley!

AUSTRALIA’S MOST OUTSTANDING IN IT SECURITY – Proudly sponsored by NSW Government

Special Recognition: Farina Riaz

We commend you for your outstanding innovation, technical excellence, and inclusive leadership in quantum-secure AI for cybersecurity. As a Mental Health Champion, mentor, and advocate for diversity in STEM, your empathy and determination enrich both your leadership and the IT security community. Your pioneering research and real-world impact have set new benchmarks for a diverse, progressive industry, inspiring and empowering future leaders.

Congratulations Farina!

Highly Commended: Virginia Calegare

As the nation’s first female-founded Security Operations Centre, you have set new benchmarks for operational excellence, leading critical incident response and safeguarding some of the country’s most vital organisations. you embody decisiveness and clarity, guiding teams and clients through high-stakes challenges with unwavering commitment and care.Through your courage, vision, and dedication, you have inspired a new generation of security professionals and demonstrated that true strength in security is measured by both the lives you protect and the opportunities you create for others.

Congratulations Virginia!

WINNER: Shannon Lorimer

For your groundbreaking leadership, vision, and transformative contributions to IT security, setting new standards of excellence for the profession. You have redefined cyber resilience through pioneering transformation, innovative data loss prevention, and secure enablement of new technologies, all while championing diversity and inclusion. Your collaborative, people-first approach has mentored emerging talent, built strong risk frameworks, and created a culture where security drives progress. Your commitment marks you as a true trailblazer whose influence will endure for years to come.

Congratulations Kate!