The recent “EmpowerCyber 2023” cyber outreach event, hosted by Cynam in Gloucester was attended by 1000 Year 8 schoolgirls from across the region and supported by 30 different industry partners.
The event aims to ignite curiosity and empower young girls to explore the incredible opportunities in the world of cyber security, opportunities they may not have otherwise considered. This works towards addressing the UK’s digital skills gap and striving for better female representation in the cyber workforce.
The UWECyber team, supported by our BSc Cyber Security and Digital Forensics, and MSc Cyber Security students, hosted a “Future Funfair” event. The event uses Lego-based funfair rides to where simulated attacks on cyber physical systems can be investigated and mitigated against by the students. These scenarios bring to life the importance of cybersecurity in everyday technology, from safeguarding personal data to protecting national infrastructure.
Additionally the CyberWomen@UWE group provided a cryptography-based murder mystery event. This challenging and exciting activity immersed the girls in the world of digital sleuthing, decrypting messages, and solving cyber puzzles. It was a powerful demonstration of how cyber skills can be applied in creative and critical thinking scenarios.
The involvement of 30 different industry partners was instrumental in the success of EmpowerCyber 2023. Their contributions offered valuable insights into the real-world applications of cyber and STEM skills, showcasing a wide array of career possibilities in these fields. This industry collaboration also highlighted the growing need for skilled professionals in the cybersecurity sector.
Through initiatives like EmpowerCyber 2023, cyber outreach activities play critical role in reducing the gender gap in STEM and cyber fields. By capturing the interest of young girls at a crucial stage in their education, this event has laid the groundwork for nurturing a generation of empowered, cyber-aware women ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow’s tech landscape.
