“WiCyS has been a defining force in my cybersecurity journey, providing me with opportunities that have shaped my career and strengthened my confidence in this field. Through WiCyS, I’ve been honored to participate in incredible programs that expanded my skills, broadened my network and fueled my drive to innovate and empower others. Most importantly, being part of this global community has deepened my gratitude for the unwavering support and inspiration that WiCyS provides to aspiring cybersecurity professionals around the world.”
—Mariami Kentchadze, Cybersecurity Specialist & Professor
Cybersecurity Solution Architect / Pre-Sales Junior
CISO/Lead Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity Instructor
Opportunities have the power to shape our future in unexpected ways, and Mariami Kentchadze’s journey is a perfect example. As an international student from the country of Georgia, she overcame societal barriers to carve her own path in cybersecurity. Through her involvement with Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS), Mariami expanded her technical skills, built a strong network and fueled her passion for innovation. Her story highlights how embracing opportunities can transform not only your own future but also open doors for others.
Mariami’s passion for technology and security led her to pursue a degree in cybersecurity at Utica University. Moving to the United States came with unique challenges—from adapting to a new culture to navigating career opportunities in the U.S. cybersecurity industry. However, she quickly recognized the power of community and mentorship in overcoming these obstacles.
Mariami’s journey took a pivotal turn when Professor Leslie Corbo—Utica University’s Director of B.S. Cybersecurity Programs and an active WiCyS member—introduced her to the organization. Inspired by Professor Corbo’s leadership and WiCyS’s dedication to advancing women in cybersecurity, Mariami eagerly joined the community as an active member. Surrounded by supportive women in tech at Utica University, she quickly stepped into a leadership role, launching a WiCyS student chapter on campus to further the mission of recruiting, retaining and advancing women in the field.
Mariami saw the need for a dedicated space where women and underrepresented students in cybersecurity could network, collaborate and thrive. When presenting her case to the university’s recognition committee, she faced initial skepticism about the necessity of a separate cybersecurity organization.
However, she made a compelling argument that the WiCyS chapter would encourage female participation in cybersecurity, contributing to the broader goal of breaking down barriers and strengthening the cybersecurity workforce. Her vision resonated with the committee, and the chapter was unanimously approved by all the voting members—a milestone in her mission to build an empowering community on her campus.
“What I love about universities in the U.S. is that even if the opportunity doesn’t exist, you are afforded the space and opportunity to create it,” Mariami shared, reflecting on how she transformed an idea into a space for empowerment and growth with the support of fellow students and faculty members who believed in her.
As the newly appointed WiCyS Student Chapter President, she set to work refining the chapter’s constitution, organizing engaging events and generating excitement among her peers. Her leadership was driven by a deeper purpose: creating opportunities for others, especially women in tech, who often lack the support they need to advance in the field.
Growing up, Mariami was often told that she was destined to achieve less than her male counterparts in STEM fields. Despite her computer proficiency and identical performance across technical and non-technical subjects, a teacher once suggested she pursue a different career path, claiming she was not suited for a technical field.
While many of Mariami’s teachers were supportive and believed in her, one teacher—someone she admired—left a lasting mark with a single comment. As she explained, “Even a single discouraging comment can have the power to redefine your perspective, alter your future decisions or shake your confidence—if you let it. Instead, rise above and refuse to let these comments dim your light or make you doubt what you’re capable of achieving.” Rather than holding her back, moments like these only strengthened Mariami’s resolve to challenge stereotypes and empower other women in STEM.
“I’ve always wanted to do something that would empower others,” she explains. “Especially because I have sisters and young cousins—I don’t want anyone taking away their sparkle.” This passion drives her commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone has the chance to succeed.
Mariami’s involvement with WiCyS opened doors to numerous opportunities that enriched her cybersecurity journey. “Through WiCyS, I’ve been honored to participate in incredible programs that have shaped my career and given me the confidence to push forward,” she said.
She seized every opportunity to grow her skills and expand her network, participating in prestigious programs such as the Security Training Scholarship, the Mentor/Mentee Program, the ISC2 Fall Camp and the renowned Target Cyber Defense Challenge.
The Target Cyber Defense Challenge was particularly defining. She finished in the top 10 and had the opportunity to present her findings to Target’s cybersecurity team. The experience validated her skills, boosted her confidence and reinforced her place in the industry.
Mariami’s success has deepened her appreciation for being part of a global community that uplifts aspiring cybersecurity professionals. Now, she is eager to share her experiences and inspire the next generation through her presentation on neurocrime in the digital age, which has been selected out of thousands to be heard at the upcoming WiCyS conference.
“I’m excited to see everyone and present my work,” Mariami shares with a smile. “With WiCyS, I genuinely feel like I’ve found what I was searching for throughout my career. I want to empower others to pursue their dreams and do what makes them happy.”
For those considering a career in cybersecurity, Mariami’s advice is simple: get involved. Seek out communities like WiCyS, take advantage of mentorship programs and don’t be afraid to create opportunities where they don’t yet exist.
Her story is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities, pushing past barriers and creating spaces where others can succeed. Through WiCyS and her unwavering determination, Mariami isn’t just building a career in cybersecurity—she’s shaping the future for those who follow.
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