Call for Applications: Standard Chartered Women in Cyber Security Program 2025 for Young East African Women
Application Deadline: June 30, 2025
Applications are now open for the 2025 edition of the Standard Chartered Women in Cyber Security Program, a transformative initiative designed to bridge the gender gap in the cybersecurity field. This program is a collaboration between Standard Chartered Bank and @iLabAfrica at Strathmore University, aimed at empowering women from East Africa, specifically Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania who are interested in building careers in cybersecurity.
Background
As technology continues to evolve and organizations increasingly rely on digital systems, the demand for cybersecurity professionals has never been higher. Alongside the benefits of technological advancement comes the critical responsibility of protecting systems, data, and people from ever-growing cyber threats.
Despite the rising demand, women remain significantly underrepresented in cybersecurity, both in academia and in the workplace. This underrepresentation often begins at the earliest stages of education and continues into professional life. The Standard Chartered Women in Cyber Security Program seeks to change this narrative by creating inclusive pathways for women to enter and thrive in the cybersecurity sector.
Program Overview
The Women in Cyber Security Program 2025 is a 4-month mentorship and training initiative designed to support women with limited or no prior experience in cybersecurity. It focuses on equipping participants with technical knowledge, industry exposure, and professional development skills necessary to start a successful career in cybersecurity.
The program is fully remote, allowing participants to engage from anywhere within the eligible countries, provided they have access to a computer and stable internet.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for this program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Gender: Must identify as a woman
- Residency: Must reside in Kenya, Uganda, or Tanzania
- Experience: Should have 2 to 3 years of junior-level experience in any professional field, even if unrelated to cybersecurity
- Interest in Cybersecurity: Must be looking to make a transition into the cybersecurity field
- Language: Proficient in English, as all training and mentorship sessions will be conducted in English
- Availability: Must be able to commit to the entire 4-month duration of the program
- Technology Access: Must have access to a personal computer and reliable internet connection
Key Components of the Program
The program is structured around four core components designed to build both technical competence and professional confidence:
1. Mentorship Circles
Participants will be matched with experienced professionals in cybersecurity who will serve as personal mentors throughout the program. These one-on-one mentorship sessions are intended to provide individualized guidance, support, and accountability. Mentors will help participants define their career goals, navigate their transition into the cybersecurity field, and build a network within the industry.
2. Fireside Chats
Fireside chats will be interactive group discussions with leading cybersecurity professionals and industry experts from across East Africa. These sessions offer real-world insights into current cybersecurity trends, challenges, and innovations. They also provide an open platform for participants to ask questions, exchange ideas, and broaden their understanding of the field.
3. Technical Training
Participants will engage in self-paced technical training modules that cover the foundational skills required in cybersecurity. The curriculum is designed and delivered by subject matter experts who bring both academic knowledge and practical industry experience. Topics may include cybersecurity fundamentals, network security, threat analysis, risk management, and ethical hacking.
4. Soft Skills Development
Recognizing that technical skills alone are not sufficient for career success, the program also includes targeted soft skills training. Sessions will focus on essential competencies such as effective communication, time management, interview preparation, and CV writing. Special attention will be given to issues relevant to women professionals, including work-life balance and building confidence in male-dominated industries.
Program Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the program, participants will be equipped with:
- A foundational understanding of cybersecurity concepts and practices
- Real-world insights from industry leaders
- A professional network of mentors, peers, and experts
- Improved soft skills relevant to job search and workplace success
- A clear roadmap for entering and growing in the cybersecurity sector
This program is a stepping stone for women who are passionate about technology and eager to pursue a meaningful career in cybersecurity. It is designed not only to upskill participants but also to challenge gender norms and open doors in a traditionally male-dominated field.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before June 30, 2025. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps in the selection process.
For detailed information and to submit your application, please visit the official program webpage.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring company. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
