BSc Cyber Security graduate, Sophie Powell, shares how she is helping to empower and inspire women in cyber security. Sophie has been named Cyber Student of the Year at the National Cyber Awards 2023, a winner of the 2023 TechWomen100Awards, and a finalist in the Diversity Champion category of the Security Serious Unsung Heroes Awards 2023.

Meet Sophie Powell, a First Class BSc Cyber Security graduate from WMG, University of Warwick. Since graduating, Sophie has started a new role with CyberFort Group as a Cyber Security Consultant Graduate.

During her studies at WMG, Sophie was a trailblazer in advancing diversity and inclusion. Sophie collaborated with staff and students at the University to co-found CyberWomen@Warwick in her second year. CyberWomen@Warwick has since expanded into CyberWomen Groups Community Interest Company (CIC). This non-profit CIC, co-founded and directed by Sophie, supports branches of students in different UK universities to come together and empower women in this field.

The start of something special

“Founding CyberWomen Groups alongside my degree has been an integral part of my own personal and professional development and has shaped my expectations, instilled confidence, and taught me the value of embracing strengths and weaknesses,” Sophie explained.

“Everybody has different skills and proficiencies – acknowledging this and using it to continue to grow is a value I have gained being part of this initiative. I hope this to continue to be an influence throughout my career!”

Why diversity and inclusion in STEM matters

"It is important to celebrate women in the tech industry because inclusivity starts with everyone. Highlighting female role models and championing their work ensures that it gets the recognition it deserves. CyberWomen@Warwick was created to create a positive learning environment for anyone, regardless of their age, identity, or interest."

Educating SMEs about the dangers of increasing cyber attacks

During her time at university, Sophie enrolled onto Cyber PATH, a programme designed for students to engage in the commercial aspects of the sector and gain vital experience while helping SMEs with their cyber resilience.

Sophie said: “One of the most influential activities besides CyberWomen@Warwick was certainly being a student on the Cyber PATH programme! Alongside my studies, I was able to work with clients and a team of professionals to deliver services, learning and filling in knowledge gaps along the way!”

Studying Cyber Security at Warwick

“Being a part of the University and CyberWomen Groups has been an integral part of my own personal and professional development. Becoming independent and making choices about the type of career I envision myself to have has had a significant impact on my journey after graduation and the company I am honoured to be a part of!”

When asked about the highlight of her university experience, Sophie said: “I was able to meet, learn and interact with so many incredible people. I feel very lucky to have been in the space to have been able to do so.”

Sophie's advice for anyone looking to succeed in cyber security

“Enjoy what you do and experience everything you can! Cyber security is such a brilliant industry due to the number of opportunities and pathways available to you. With an appetite for learning, it is a really rewarding career path.”

Visit WMG's BSc Cyber Security course page to learn more about our full-time undergraduate degree.