Unveiling the Winners of the 3rd Annual Champions in Security Awards by Portal26

Introduction

The cybersecurity landscape is rapidly evolving, presenting both new challenges and growth opportunities for organizations today. As the field continues to expand, recognizing those who excel within this domain becomes more crucial than ever. The Champions in Security Awards, hosted by Portal26, offer such recognition, honoring leaders who demonstrate core values like respect, inclusion, and innovation. This year, the awards will be held during the RSA Security Conference on April 28, 2025, in San Francisco.

The Importance of the Champions in Security Awards

The Champions in Security Awards celebrate the contributions of individuals and organizations working to strengthen the cybersecurity field. These awards not only acknowledge the achievements of various professionals but also inspire others to embrace the values that drive a successful cybersecurity culture. According to Arti Raman, CEO of Portal26, these awards highlight how cybersecurity leaders are pivotal in navigating the technological shifts of our time, portraying them as the spearhead in implementing transformative technologies that foster organizational growth.

The Award Categories

The awards recognize excellence across several categories:
1. Community: This category honors individuals who focus on uniting practitioners from various sectors.
- Winners:
- Phil Dunkelberger, CEO/President, Nok Nok Labs
- Gadi Evron, CEO/Founder, Knostic
- Kirsten Davies, Founder/CEO, Institute for Cyber

2. Inclusion: This category recognizes leaders who promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within their organizations and the broader industry.
- Winners:
- Brenda Curtis, Business Information Security Officer, IPG
- Erika Voss, SVP/CSO, Blue Yonder

3. Innovation: This accolade is awarded to individuals who support innovative thinking and practices within cybersecurity.
- Winners:
- Ed Tamondong, CSO, Heritage Bank of Commerce
- Upendra Mardikar, EVP/CISO, TIAA

4. Education: This category honors professionals dedicated to educating the next generation about digital safety and cybercrime.
- Winners:
- Diedre Diamond, CEO/Founder, CyberSN
- Akira Brand, AVP, Application Security, PRA Group
- Gary Haslip, Global CISA, Softbank Investment Advisors

Keynote Addresses

At the ceremony, leading industry figures like Troy Wilkinson and Beth-Anne Bygum will give keynote addresses highlighting the transformative impact of Generative AI on cybersecurity roles. They will discuss how these advancements create opportunities and how leaders can leverage these tools to improve security practices within their organizations.

Conclusion

The Champions in Security Awards are more than just a recognition event; they are a celebration of innovation and collaboration within the cybersecurity realm. As the industry faces increasingly sophisticated threats, acknowledging those at the forefront of these changes is vital. For more information on the awards and the incredible leaders shaping the future of cybersecurity, visit Portal26.ai.