Share The Mic in Cyber Campaign Raises over $70k in Grant Funding for Cybersecurity Experts, Prepares for CYBERBASE Network in 2022
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WASHINGTON - illiNews -- Launched in June 2020, #ShareTheMicInCyber is a campaign and collaborative investment to accelerate the workforce pipeline for diverse professionals in cybersecurity. #ShareTheMicInCyber is a digital movement highlighting the experiences and accomplishments of Black cybersecurity practitioners. Founded by Camille Stewart and Lauren Zabierek, the campaign seeks to increase awareness and advancement of this industry by investing in and making room for Black cyber practitioners and their stories. Since its inception, the campaign has become a resource for collaboration and mentorship across the industry. In partnership with Women In Security and Privacy (WISP), the campaign has raised over $70k towards scholarships and certifications, awarding Black cybersecurity experts from the United States, Canada, the Netherlands, and Rwanda to help improve access to quality and equitable learning experiences in the cyber industry.

"WISP is thrilled to be able to leverage our nonprofit infrastructure, community, and sponsor's donations to support #ShareTheMicInCyber's commitment to shining a light on Black security and privacy practitioners' accomplishments and expertise in the fields," says Rachel Tobac, Chair of the Board for WISP. "We are honored to provide funding for training, exams, certifications, and education costs for Practitioners."

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#ShareTheMicInCyber and WISP continue to raise awareness and funding for cybersecurity professionals who are seeking awards for professional development. Over the last year the campaign raised grant and organizational support to cover training and certification costs for over 30 practitioners, helping to fuel their educational pursuits. Partners in this endeavor include Google, Twitter, SANS Institute, Recorded Future, Discernible, GirlSecurity, the Berkman Klein Center, Craig Newmark Philanthropies, the Future of Privacy Forum, University of Washington's Tech Policy Lab, and more.

"Diverse practitioners deserve every opportunity to be seen and heard." says Camille Stewart. "As #ShareTheMicInCyber continues to expand its reach and work to break down barriers to entry, visibility, and advancement, I am heartened by the noticeable impact on the discourse in this industry. Each partnership is helping us slowly change the face of cyber to better reflect the faces of all Americans."

Camille and Lauren continue to seek ways to expand #ShareTheMicInCyber's impact. Holding true to their continued call for people to eradicate systemic racism in the industry, their next collaboration with R Street Institute will make connecting with Black cyber professionals easier, as organizations look to fill boards, panels, and career positions. Together they are launching Cyberbase, an online database that will highlight Black professionals' expertise and interest.

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"#ShareTheMicInCyber thrives on our partnerships with like-minded organizations looking to make change in this space," says #ShareTheMicInCyber co-founder Lauren Zabierek. "As such, we are excited to be partnering with Tatyana Bolton and her team at the R Street Institute to develop CyberBase, an online database for organizations to connect with and provide opportunities in cybersecurity for Black professionals. CyberBase is part of R Street Institute's Making Space initiative, and is made possible by the generous support from Craig Newmark Philanthropies."

Black cybersecurity experts and professionals are eligible to join Cyberbase. For more information about ShareTheMicinCyber and Cyberbase visit sharethemicincyber.splashthat.com/.