Mentorship & Community Contribution Award (Best Volunteer / Mentor)

This award recognises individuals who have made an extraordinary difference in the security sector by both mentoring women and non-binary talent and driving volunteer efforts to improve cybersecurity awareness and safety. Whether through one-on-one guidance, group mentoring, public campaigns, or hands-on community initiatives, the recipient will have empowered others, educated the public, and strengthened cybersecurity across Australia.

Nomination Questions

• Describe the nominee’s role in the security industry, including both formal responsibilities and any voluntary, unpaid initiatives.

• Detail how the nominee has mentored women and non-binary individuals, as well as the scope, scale, and impact of their efforts. Share specific stories or results where possible.

• Highlight the nominee’s volunteer contributions (beyond paid work) to cybersecurity awareness or safety. This could include creating or leading campaigns, running public or school sessions, community outreach, or providing pro bono support.

• Share examples of individuals, organisations, or communities that have directly benefited from the nominee’s mentorship or volunteer work. Describe positive outcomes or changes that resulted.

• What makes the nominee’s approach to mentoring and volunteer engagement unique, inspiring, or especially effective?

• Explain how the nominee has raised awareness, educated others, or improved cybersecurity readiness—particularly outside their main work duties.

• What motivates the nominee to devote time to both mentorship and volunteerism in the security sector?

• If relevant, describe any future plans or ongoing projects to further support mentoring or promote cybersecurity awareness and safety.

This award celebrates those who lift others up and give back, championing both personal growth and the collective safety of all.