ISC2 and WiCyS are partnering to promote accessibility to cybersecurity educational resources and certifications. The WiCyS + ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity Certification Spring Camp is an offering for WiCyS members where they experience the power of community, mentoring and incentives.

Applications are open March 17 – April 14 for entry-level applicants to the next WiCyS + ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity Certification Spring Camp. It is available to 500 WiCyS members globally who are willing to commit to the 14 hours of self-paced training program and completing the certification. WiCyS and ISC2 explain more about this program during a webinar on March 20 at 2pm ET, watch live or on-demand.

Participants will receive one free exam voucher for the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity certification, access to ISC2 online self-paced training, opportunity to participate in a cohort, a WiCyS mentor, a technical mentor and participation in open office hours. The top three participants in the program receive a scholarship to attend the WiCyS 2026 Conference. 

Anushree Vaidya, CC, participated in the 2024 WiCyS + ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity Certification camp and was one of the scholarship recipients to attend the WiCyS conference. She successfully completed the program and earned the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity certification.

Here directly from Anushree Vaidya, CC and how this program impacted her and her career: 

Q: What is your current role and what type of work do you aspire to do in the future? 

A: I am a Cybersecurity Analyst at EXOS Cyber, an MSSP. My work involves security operations, threat hunting, incident response, and compliance for various clients across different industries. In the future, I aspire to continue learning and find my niche, with a particular interest in purple teaming. I'm passionate about combining red and blue team operations, thinking like an attacker to orchestrate better defenses, and spreading cybersecurity awareness beyond the tech world.

Q: How does WiCyS’ mission resonate with you?

A: Since beginning my cybersecurity journey in 2015, I lacked female role models and a sense of community until discovering WiCyS in 2021. Being awarded a scholarship to attend the conference that year was transformative. WiCyS's mission to recruit, retain, and provide resources to women in cybersecurity resonates deeply with me, and I support it wholeheartedly.

Q: How do you envision the WiCyS + ISC2 partnership contributing to the goal of inclusion within the Cybersecurity industry?

A: The partnership between ISC2, a premier cybersecurity education organization, and WiCyS is a powerful initiative towards making the field not just accessible but a true avenue for women to prosper through upskilling and hard work. This collaboration goes beyond simply opening doors; it provides a comprehensive support system that empowers women to excel in cybersecurity. By combining ISC2's industry-leading certifications with WiCyS's community-driven approach, the partnership creates a synergy that addresses both the technical and social aspects of advancing in the field. This holistic approach is crucial in fostering long-term success and leadership for women in cybersecurity, ultimately contributing to a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive industry

Q: How did you get started in the cybersecurity industry? What obstacles did you encounter during your journey?

A: My journey into cybersecurity began with a love for security, initially thinking I'd become a police officer. However, my passion for computers merged with my interest in security, leading me to cybersecurity. The path wasn't easy, from convincing my parents to let me join a professional ethical hacking course to facing mockery from male peers about my technical abilities. These experiences underscore the importance of communities like WiCyS in providing young girls with role models and allies to tackle the field's challenges head-on.

Q: What inspires you and why does the WiCyS & ISC2 community mean so much to you?

A: The ISC2 and WiCyS partnership is truly groundbreaking in its approach to empowering women in cybersecurity. By combining ISC2's renowned educational resources with WiCyS's supportive community, this collaboration creates an unparalleled learning environment. The cohort-style learning opportunity not only provided me with valuable skills but also fostered a network of friends and colleagues in cybersecurity that I can rely on for support and collaboration. This sense of community is invaluable, especially in a field that can often feel isolating for women. The partnership's focus on both technical excellence and community building sets a new standard for inclusivity in cybersecurity education and professional development.

Q: What does International Women's Day (March 8th) and ISC2’s Women in Cybersecurity mean to you? Why is it important?

A: International Women's Day, to me, is a day of remembrance and commitment. It's a time to reflect on the sacrifices countless women have made throughout history, enabling me to enjoy the freedoms I have today. It's also a day to carry forward their legacy through our voices and actions. Similarly, Women in Cybersecurity Month highlights women's ongoing challenges in this industry. Despite the progress we've made, cultural and cognitive barriers persist worldwide, limiting possibilities for women. In the male-dominated cybersecurity industry, women still struggle to be taken seriously. This is why Women in Cybersecurity Month is crucial – it's not just about celebration but about strategizing our survival and success in this industry.

Q: What advice would you give to young women professionals looking to enter the cybersecurity field?

A: To young women entering cybersecurity, I say: You belong here! As long as you have the will to learn and contribute to making the digital world safer, don't let anyone dim your spark. Remember, allies come in all genders – they're the people who advocate for you even when you're not present. When you have the chance, be that ally for someone else and give back to the community.

Q: What does passing the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity exam mean to you? 

A: Passing the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity exam was a momentous achievement for me, representing a significant milestone in my professional journey. It wasn't just about acquiring a certification; it was a validation of the years of hard work, dedication, and continuous learning I've invested in this field. This accomplishment has boosted my confidence and reinforced my commitment to excellence in cybersecurity. Moreover, it has opened new doors for career advancement and networking opportunities within the industry, further solidifying my position as a competent professional in this rapidly evolving field.

Q: How did the WiCyS + ISC2 Spring 2024 Cohort help you in your CC exam journey?

A: The Spring 2024 WiCyS + ISC2 Cohort was instrumental in my CC exam journey. It provided a collaborative learning environment where I could discuss doubts, seek help with challenging questions, and explore various concepts in depth. The cohort structure fostered a sense of camaraderie and mutual support among participants, which was invaluable during the preparation process. This shared experience not only enhanced my understanding of the exam material but also helped me build lasting connections with fellow cybersecurity enthusiasts. The cohort's diverse perspectives and collective knowledge significantly enriched my learning experience, making the journey towards certification both more manageable and more rewarding.

Q: What are you looking forward to in attending the 2025 WiCyS conference?

A: I'm thrilled about presenting my workshop at WiCyS 2025. I'm eager to meet friends from the Spring 2024 WiCyS cohort, my mentees, and especially my mentors. I'm looking forward to learning from various presentations, workshops, and keynotes, and absorbing all the positive energy.

Related Insights