In the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, few individuals stand out as both thought leaders and advocates for inclusion. One such trailblazer is Btissam Laaouina, a distinguished cybersecurity expert who has dedicated her career to protecting digital landscapes while mentoring and inspiring the next generation of security professionals. With over a decade of experience in the field, Btissam has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation and leadership in cybersecurity.
A Journey Driven by Passion and Persistence
Btissam’s fascination with cybersecurity began over ten years ago, rooted in a deep curiosity for cryptography. A pivotal moment occurred when a colleague introduced her to encryption algorithms—an experience that sparked her desire to delve beyond theoretical concepts and truly understand the mechanics of digital security.
However, when she embarked on this journey, cybersecurity education and resources were not as widely accessible as they are today. Rather than seeing this as a limitation, Btissam embraced the challenge, constantly searching, reading, and experimenting to deepen her expertise. Her relentless pursuit of knowledge led her to obtain globally recognized certifications such as CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CISM (Certified Information Security Manager), and CCISO (Certified Chief Information Security Officer). These credentials strengthened her technical foundation and reinforced her strategic approach to cybersecurity, focusing on integrating security into every facet of an organization’s operations.
“I believe cybersecurity isn’t just about awareness; it’s about embedding security into all processes from the ground up,” she shares. This philosophy has guided her approach to leadership and problem-solving in the industry.
The Influences That Shaped Her Leadership
Btissam attributes her leadership style to the diverse experiences and individuals who have influenced her career. From mentors and colleagues to the challenges that demanded innovative thinking, each interaction has played a role in shaping her approach.
“Leadership isn’t about just making decisions—it’s about ensuring every team member is empowered, encouraged, and equipped with the right tools to succeed,” she explains.
Her leadership philosophy combines technical expertise with strategic foresight, creating an environment where teams collaborate effectively and embrace bold approaches to cybersecurity. She believes that fostering an atmosphere of trust, inclusivity, and curiosity is the key to driving impactful change in any organization.
Overcoming Challenges as a Woman in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity has historically been a male-dominated field, and Btissam has faced her share of challenges as a woman in leadership. At times, she had to work harder to prove her credibility, navigate biases, and ensure that her expertise was recognized. However, rather than allowing these barriers to discourage her, she turned them into motivation to excel.
“The key has always been to trust my expertise and stay consistent—whether it’s keeping up with the latest trends, delivering strong results, or mentoring others,” she says. She highlights the importance of persistence, confidence, and continuous learning as the most valuable assets in overcoming obstacles.
Btissam is also deeply committed to supporting other women who face similar challenges. She believes that mentorship and advocacy can make a tangible difference in creating a more inclusive industry.
Core Values That Drive Leadership Decisions
Throughout her career, Btissam has upheld a strong set of values that guide her decision-making:
Integrity – In cybersecurity, trust is fundamental, and ethical decision-making is crucial to safeguarding digital environments.
Accountability – Mistakes and challenges are inevitable, but taking responsibility and learning from them is what defines great leaders.
Vision – Cybersecurity is not just about reacting to threats but anticipating them, staying ahead of the curve, and implementing proactive strategies.
These principles not only shape her leadership style but also contribute to the long-term security and resilience of the organizations she supports.
Inspiring and Mentoring the Next Generation
Btissam’s dedication to mentorship is one of the most fulfilling aspects of her career. She actively works to bridge the gender gap in cybersecurity by mentoring young professionals, particularly women aspiring to enter the field.
She played a pivotal role in the CyberGirl Fellowship 2024, an initiative designed to empower young women to pursue careers in cybersecurity. Additionally, she runs Cybershapes, a blog dedicated to sharing insights on industry trends, career advice, and the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity.
“Mentorship isn’t just about sharing knowledge—it’s about giving others the confidence and tools to succeed,” she emphasizes. Her open-door approach has led to meaningful connections, with professionals frequently reaching out to her on LinkedIn for guidance. Seeing her mentees succeed remains one of her most rewarding experiences.
Advice to Aspiring Women Leaders
For women aspiring to reach leadership positions, Btissam offers valuable advice:
- Be confident in your skills – Competence builds credibility.
- Take initiative – Don’t wait for opportunities; create them.
- Surround yourself with the right people – Mentors and allies can open doors.
- Stay curious – The field is constantly evolving; continuous learning is key.
- Embrace imperfection – Leadership isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about taking action, learning through experience, and improving along the way.
The Role of Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership
Btissam is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in cybersecurity. She believes that diverse perspectives lead to more innovative and effective security solutions.
“I always ensure that every voice is heard, and I encourage open discussions,” she says. “A diverse team isn’t just stronger—it’s smarter, more adaptable, and better equipped to tackle cybersecurity challenges.”
Staying Motivated and Resilient in Tough Times
Cybersecurity is a high-pressure field, and staying motivated can be challenging. Btissam credits her resilience to a combination of factors:
- Remembering the bigger picture – Cybersecurity plays a crucial role in protecting people and organizations.
- Continuous learning – Her curiosity drives her to embrace new challenges.
- A strong support network – Surrounding herself with inspiring colleagues and mentors keeps her motivated.
She acknowledges that setbacks are inevitable, but resilience is built through unwavering commitment and adaptability.
Career Achievements and Future Goals
One of Btissam’s proudest accomplishments was being named among the Top International 40 Under 40 in Cybersecurity. However, for her, success is not just about accolades—it’s about impact. Mentoring aspiring professionals, helping organizations build stronger security strategies, and driving meaningful change are what truly matter to her.
Looking ahead, she has ambitious goals for the next five years. She plans to:
- Deepen her expertise in cybersecurity – Exploring emerging threats and innovative security solutions.
- Take on greater leadership responsibilities – Expanding her role in shaping security strategies at a global scale.
- Continue mentoring and advocating for inclusion – Helping more individuals enter and excel in cybersecurity.
- Make cybersecurity knowledge more accessible – Through her blog and LinkedIn updates, she aims to demystify cybersecurity, making it more approachable for professionals and everyday users alike.
Btissam Laaouina is more than a cybersecurity expert—she is a visionary leader, mentor, and advocate for diversity in the field. Her relentless pursuit of excellence, commitment to empowering others, and passion for driving change make her one of the most admired women leaders to watch in 2025. As she continues to break barriers and shape the future of cybersecurity, one thing remains certain—her influence will extend far beyond her own achievements, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and the next generation of leaders.