Mentorship, Collaboration & Diversity: Driving GRC success
Warren Atkinson
Cyber Community Connector | Podcast Host | Head of Information & Cyber Security Recruitment | ECS & GTM Team Builder
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In an era of increasing cyber threats and an ever-evolving digital landscape, leaders—from CEOs to CIOs, CTOs, CSOs, HR professionals, and other tech/security experts—are under immense pressure. They must not only safeguard their organisations against sophisticated threats but also tackle the growing shortage of skilled cybersecurity talent. According to the Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is surpassing the available workforce, which highlights the urgency of collaboration and continuous professional development across the sector.
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One of the most effective ways to address this talent gap and build organisational resilience is through mentorship, support networks, and knowledge-sharing communities. Specialist interest groups like CyBlack , Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) UK & Ireland , Yorkshire Cyber Security Cluster , Cyber London and ISACA Northern England Chapter provide invaluable platforms for leaders to engage with like-minded professionals, gain insights into the latest trends, and foster a culture of diversity and inclusion within the cybersecurity sector. CyBlack, for example, focuses on empowering Black professionals in the field, while WiCyS is dedicated to supporting women and creating spaces for them to thrive in cyber security. By supporting and engaging with these communities, leaders can benefit from diverse perspectives, which ultimately drive better decision-making and innovation within their organisations.
For CIOs, CTOs, CSOs, and HR leaders, participating in such networks goes beyond mere technical expertise. These communities provide real-time problem-solving opportunities and serve as a hub for exchanging ideas on best practices, innovative solutions, and strategic leadership approaches. In a field where threats are becoming more complex and the pace of technological change is relentless, these groups offer leaders the tools they need to adapt and thrive. Mentorship opportunities within these communities also allow leaders to share their experiences, give back to the next generation, and build stronger, more resilient teams.
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Industry events such as DTX Manchester 2025 and YorkshireX provide a dynamic environment for professionals to connect, exchange knowledge, and access the latest advancements in technology and cybersecurity. These events are also an excellent opportunity for leaders to showcase their commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging broader participation in cyber security and highlighting the importance of varied perspectives in shaping the future of the industry.
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By prioritising mentorship, support networks, and knowledge-sharing communities, leaders in cybersecurity can drive the development of a highly skilled, agile workforce. These connections not only provide access to cutting-edge insights and skills but also foster an environment where both individual and collective growth can flourish. In a rapidly evolving sector, this collaboration is not just an advantage—it’s essential to staying ahead of emerging threats and maintaining a competitive edge.
Five ways leaders can leverage Mentorship, Networks and Knowledge Sharing:
Incorporating mentorship, support networks, and specialist interest groups into your leadership approach not only strengthens your organisation’s technical capabilities but also enhances its strategic agility and resilience. These collaborations enable organisations to stay ahead of cybersecurity challenges, ensure a diverse and inclusive workplace, and foster continuous learning and growth, all of which are essential for success in today’s digital landscape.
Why collaboration is key
As cyber threats evolve, collaboration and diversity are crucial to developing effective GRC strategies. Networks such as the SECURE | CYBER CONNECT Community & Podcast, YorkshireX , DTX 360 , Clarion Events , Cyber News Group , InfoSec Europe, CyberUK, and groups like CyBlack, Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS), ISACA Northern England Chapter, Cyber London, and the Yorkshire Cyber Security Cluster provide essential platforms for exchanging insights. CyBlack, in particular, plays a key role in empowering Black professionals in cybersecurity by offering mentorship and fostering an inclusive environment. These communities not only drive innovation in cybersecurity but also emphasize the importance of diverse perspectives in tackling the industry's most pressing challenges. They recognise the need for a balanced approach, where technological progress is paired with a supportive and inclusive culture that prioritises mental well-being. By collaborating within these diverse networks, professionals can enhance their GRC strategies, share knowledge, and build resilient organisations together.
Introducing Dr. Iretioluwa Akerele
We’re delighted to welcome Dr Iretioluwa Akerele to today’s episode of the SECURE | CYBER CONNECT Community & Podcast . Dr. Akerele is a respected leader in cyber security and diversity, with deep expertise in Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC). She is the co-founder of CyBlack, an initiative dedicated to empowering Black professionals in cybersecurity, and holds several influential board positions, including with Cybarik and the Cybersafe Foundation. Her leadership has earned her numerous awards for promoting inclusive leadership, diversity, and mental well-being within the cyber security sector. Today, she’ll share her invaluable insights on how businesses can build resilient, diverse teams, navigate emerging threats, and implement effective GRC strategies in an increasingly complex cyber security landscape.
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Why This Episode is a Must-Watch & Value You’ll Gain:
We discusses how to build effective GRC frameworks to tackle evolving cyber threats, the role of inclusive leadership, and the importance of prioritising mental well-being in the workplace. Dr. Akerele also provides practical career advice, including how professionals can develop the skills needed to succeed in a competitive cyber security environment. Key questions addressed include: How can organisations align cyber security with GRC? What role does diversity play in enhancing security? What are the challenges in implementing robust security frameworks? And how can leaders create an environment that supports both innovation and mental health? This episode offers actionable strategies and insights for anyone looking to thrive in today’s dynamic cyber security landscape.
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Mentoring has proven to be a powerful tool, with a mutual exchange of experiences and knowledge. Community and support network are a great gateway to a diverse wealth of knowledge. We’d be curious to hear where else others have found success?
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