The cybersecurity industry spends plenty of time talking about its talent shortage. At CYBR.SEC.Community, we're focused on doing something about it.
That mission was on full display at last night's Cards for a Cause fundraiser, where sponsors, donors, volunteers and attendees came together to raise more than $24,400 for CYBR.SEC.Careers.
The money will support three priorities:
- Scholarships that help remove financial barriers to cybersecurity education,
- Mentorship that connects aspiring professionals with experienced practitioners, and
- Youth education programs that introduce the next generation to cybersecurity careers.
It's about building a bridge from curiosity to career. And it's central to why CYBR.SEC.Community exists.
More than a fundraiser
CYBR.SEC.Community brings cybersecurity professionals together through events, education, media and opportunities to share knowledge. But building a stronger security community also means making sure the next generation has a way in.
That's where CYBR.SEC.Careers comes in.
For someone interested in cybersecurity but unsure where to begin, access to education, guidance and professional connections can make all the difference. Scholarships can ease the financial burden. Mentors can help newcomers navigate unfamiliar territory. Youth education can spark an interest that grows into a lifelong career.
These aren't separate from the community's mission. They're an extension of it.
Cards for a Cause demonstrates what happens when people who have benefited from the cybersecurity profession come together to help others find their place in it.
A community that shows up
The evening was made possible by people and organizations willing to invest their time, resources and voices in that mission.
A special highlight was a speech by Dan Broussard, who spoke about the people at the heart of the work and why creating these opportunities matters.
Antonio Talavera, James "JB" Bryant, Michael Farnum and Sheridan Skurupey-McDonald also shared their perspectives on what the community can accomplish together.
Sponsors Concentric AI, AccessIT Group, Abstract, Cyber in Color and Zscaler helped make the event possible.
Equally important were the volunteers who kept the evening running, the people who promoted the fundraiser, those who donated ahead of time and everyone who attended.
The more than $24,400 raised is a reflection of that collective commitment.
Building the next generation of defenders
There's a simple idea behind CYBR.SEC.Careers: The future of cybersecurity depends not only on the people already working in the industry, but also on those who haven't yet had the opportunity to join it.
Talent exists everywhere. Opportunity doesn't.
Closing that gap requires more than encouraging young people to pursue cybersecurity. It requires investing in their education, introducing them to people who can guide them and helping them see a realistic path into the profession.
That's what Cards for a Cause is designed to support.
The event may be over, but the work continues. Donations remain open for anyone who missed the fundraiser or wants to contribute to the mission.
Support CYBR.SEC.Careers through Cards for a Cause.
A stronger cybersecurity community isn't measured only by how many people we bring together today. It's also measured by how many doors we open for tomorrow.
