Cybersecurity Advocacy and Rising Star Achievement Award

This award marks the convergence of two prestigious distinctions: ‘IT Security Champion’ and ‘The One to Watch in IT Security.’ Designed to shine a spotlight on an individual who transcends the conventional expectations of their role, this recognition honors those actively supporting, championing, and empowering women and non-binary individuals in the dynamic realm of Cybersecurity. In addition, this accolade extends to someone deemed a rising star, symbolising significant contributions to the industry with the promise of even more remarkable achievements in the future. Nominees for this category are celebrated for their exceptional contributions and achievements, showcasing diverse talents that position them as true advocates for Cybersecurity.

Nomination Questions:

• How does your nominee exhibit leadership in advocating for cybersecurity, either within the industry or your organization? In what ways have they actively championed and empowered women and non-binary individuals in Cybersecurity?
• Share the achievements of your nominee that exemplify unrealized and unique potential or have significantly influenced the industry or your organization. Provide specific examples of their accomplishments that stand out.
• Describe the most significant outcomes resulting from your nominee’s actions. Provide specific instances where their efforts have led to positive transformations or advancements.
• Highlight the challenges your nominee had to overcome in achieving these outcomes. Discuss their strategies for navigating and surmounting these challenges.
• How is your nominee demonstrating innovation and excellence in the cybersecurity industry? Offer specific examples showcasing their creative and forward-thinking contributions.
• Why do you believe this champion deserves the award? Consider aspects such as the quality, scale, and difficulty of their achievements. What distinguishes them as an outstanding Cybersecurity Advocate?

Excellence in Secure Coding Award 

This award recognises an outstanding individual, regardless of gender identity (female or non-binary), who has demonstrated exceptional expertise in the development of software for security applications. Whether in protection or detection, serving as a team leader or a hands-on coder, their achievements must be applied and demonstrable.

Nomination Questions:

• Provide details of the project(s) that, in your view, qualify the candidate for this award. Highlight the significance of their contributions to secure coding.
• Describe the candidate’s role in the nominated project. Whether as a team leader or hands-on coder, explain their specific responsibilities and contributions.
• Share the main benefits and outcomes achieved through the candidate’s involvement in the project. Discuss the positive impact of their secure coding expertise.
• Outline the main challenges faced during the project and how the candidate navigated these obstacles to achieve the desired outcomes.
• Explore what the candidate loves most about coding in the security industry. What motivates and inspires them in their work within the realm of secure coding?
• How does the organisation/company plan to build on the candidate’s project/projects? Discuss future initiatives or developments inspired by the nominee’s contributions.
• Summarise what sets the candidate apart and makes them truly deserving of the Excellence in Secure Coding Award. Highlight the unique qualities that distinguish them as a leader in secure coding.

New Zealand’s IT Security Trailblazer Award

This prestigious award celebrates an exceptional female or non-binary individual who stands at the forefront of the IT security industry, serving as a trailblazer and inspiration for others. The recipient’s achievements span diverse domains, showcasing exceptional technical skills, pivotal roles in delivering market-leading products or services, widely recognised leadership, meaningful community contributions, and a passionate approach to overcoming industry challenges. The awardee is expected to leave a lasting impact on the IT security industry.

Nomination Questions:

• Provide details of the nominee’s remarkable achievements, emphasising excellence, innovation, leadership, or any combination thereof that positions them as a deserving candidate for this award.
• Describe how the nominee has demonstrated leadership or fostered collaboration in their achievements. Explain the ways in which these collaborative efforts have benefited others within the IT security industry.
• Discuss the barriers or challenges the nominee has faced on their journey to outstanding achievement. Outline how they navigated and surmounted these obstacles.
• Share information on the recognition the nominee’s achievements have received to date. Highlight any awards, accolades, or acknowledgments they have earned.
• Explore why the nominee is so passionate about the work or projects they tackle. What inspires them to engage fervently in their endeavors within the IT security field?
• Summarise what sets the nominee apart and makes them truly deserving of the New Zealand’s IT Security Trailblazer Award. Highlight the unique qualities that distinguish them in their role as an industry leader.