The Global Cybersecurity Forum (GCF) announced the launch of the Women in Cyber Awards, with the support of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and UN Women, to recognize excellence in advancing women’s participation, leadership, and impact in cybersecurity.

The global shortage of cybersecurity professionals presents a persistent challenge to cyber resilience and economic prosperity. This dynamic is especially acute in Latin America, where major nations face substantial cybersecurity workforce gaps, and women remain significantly underrepresented. A new report from GCF and Duke University offers insights from women across the region on the obstacles they encounter at each stage of the talent pipeline - and the solutions needed to grow and strengthen the cybersecurity workforce.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, January 29, 2026: Expanding global efforts to strengthen women’s leadership in cybersecurity, the Global Cybersecurity Forum (GCF) and the United States Telecommunications Training Institute (USTTI) have announced the next edition of the Empowering Women to Leadership in Cyber program in cities across the US and Saudi Arabia in 2026.