“WiCyS has provided me with invaluable learning opportunities and a supportive community that have greatly contributed to my personal and professional growth. Through my participation in the WiCyS Target Cyber Defense Challenge, I’ve built meaningful connections with other women in the field and gained confidence in my abilities. The encouragement and shared experiences within the WiCyS community have inspired me to embrace new challenges in cybersecurity and remain committed to continuous learning.”
—Lucija Koprivc, Cyber Security Intern
Lucija Koprivc discovered her passion for cybersecurity in 2020 during the global pandemic. As a Mathematics and Computer Science student at the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia, she was drawn to the problem-solving and technical challenges of Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions. What started as a fun activity with friends soon became a driving force in her career aspirations.
Without a formal cybersecurity program at her university, Lucija sought opportunities to expand her knowledge. “I didn’t start out studying cybersecurity,” she recalls. “My university didn’t offer a dedicated program in the field, but participating in CTFs ignited my interest. I wanted to see how I could turn that interest into a career.” Determined to grow her skills, she went on to represent Slovenia in the European Cybersecurity Challenge, an experience that further solidified her passion for the field.
Lucija soon realized that pursuing a career in cybersecurity would require more than just passion—it required access to resources, education and a supportive community. That’s when she discovered Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS), an organization dedicated to recruiting, retaining and advancing women in the field. Joining WiCyS became a turning point in her journey, providing her with the mentorship, resources and sense of belonging she had been searching for.
One of Lucija’s most impactful experiences with WiCyS was participating in the Target Cyber Defense Challenge. “It was unlike anything I had done before,” she shares. The multi-tiered program tested her technical abilities and problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Lucija rose to the challenge, advancing through each rigorous challenge and placing first in the competition. “It was tough but rewarding. The organizers from Target were incredibly supportive, and the camaraderie among participants made the experience even more valuable,” she recalls.
Beyond technical growth, WiCyS provided Lucija with a global network of like-minded women who shared their experiences, advice and encouragement. Engaging in Slack channels and Discord servers, she found inspiration in their stories, reinforcing her commitment to continuous learning and tackling new challenges in cybersecurity. “Hearing the stories of other women in the field was incredibly motivating. It reminded me that I wasn’t alone in facing obstacles or self-doubt,” she shares.
For Lucija, WiCyS became more than just a professional development platform—it was a confidence builder. “WiCyS helped me believe in myself and my potential,” she says. “I had the passion for cybersecurity, but WiCyS gave me the affirmation and encouragement I needed to pursue it as a career.”
Inspired by her experience with WiCyS, Lucija sought to give back to her local community in Slovenia. She played a key role in establishing Women4Cyber, an organization dedicated to empowering and supporting Slovenian women interested in cybersecurity. Through this initiative, she hopes to cultivate the same sense of community and encouragement she found in WiCyS, creating opportunities for women to learn, grow and connect while helping to strengthen the cybersecurity workforce.
Alongside her advocacy work, Lucija is a cybersecurity intern focused on safeguarding critical systems and data. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a Master’s degree in cybersecurity to deepen her expertise and continue advancing in the field. “My internship has been an incredible learning experience and has shown me that there’s so much more to explore in cybersecurity,” she says. “WiCyS has taught me the value of continuous learning and taking on new challenges, so I’m excited about what’s next.”
To those considering a career in cybersecurity, Lucija offers this advice: “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s joining a CTF competition, applying for a program or reaching out for mentorship, these experiences will help you grow. Most importantly, find a community like WiCyS that will support and uplift you along the way.”
Lucija’s story is a testament to the transformative power of passion, determination and community. From discovering cybersecurity during the pandemic to excelling in the Target Cyber Defense Challenge and now advocating for women entering the field, her story reflects the profound impact of WiCyS in empowering women to succeed and contribute to the future of cybersecurity.
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