Hustle Crew CEO, Abadesi Osunsade, to headline Women in Cybersecurity event at Infosecurity Europe 2025

 Infosecurity Europe, the most influential information security event which runs from 3-5 June 2025, has today announced Abadesi Osunsade, founder and CEO of Hustle Crew and co-host of the Techish podcast, will take centre stage as the keynote speaker at its ninth annual Women in Cybersecurity on Wednesday 4 June 2025 on the Keynote Stage.

Abadesi, a leading voice for inclusion and equity in tech, will deliver a keynote entitled “Taking Up Space: How to Lead the Charge in Cybersecurity.” Drawing on her varied career working for the likes of Amazon, Brandwatch and Groupon, and founding Hustle Crew to support underrepresented talent in tech, she will share actionable advice on building confidence, establishing a personal brand, and exercising individual strengths to navigate and lead in cybersecurity.

Abadesi is, founder and CEO of the Hustle Crew, a company dedicated to building inclusive workplaces through training and community, and co-hosts the Techish podcast, which explores the intersection of tech, pop culture and society. Abadesi has been recognised by the Financial Times as one of the Top 100 Influential Leaders in Tech, and featured in Forbes, The Times, Bloomberg Opinion and Elle. Her book, Dream Big Hustle Hard: A Millennial Woman’s Guide to Success in Tech, reflects her passion for helping underrepresented professionals thrive in the industry.

“I know from experience how hard it can be to claim your place in a male-dominated industry. But it’s not about being able to fit in,  you just have to stand out!” commented Abadesi. “At the Women in Cyber event, I’ll be sharing practical strategies that have helped me and others build lasting influence and authentic confidence in the workplace. I’m thrilled to be part of a space that empowers women and celebrates the unique strengths we continue to bring to the industry.”

The Women in Cybersecurity event will bring together a community of powerful women, allies, and industry leaders for an afternoon of inspiration, practical insights, and invaluable networking. As part of the afternoon programme, the event will feature a special fireside conversation with Bret Arsenault, CVP and Global Chief Security Advisor at Microsoft and one of the most respected voices in cybersecurity. Having served as Microsoft’s CISO for over 30 years, Bret brings unparalleled experience from the frontlines of global cyber defence. In this rare and timely session, he’ll explore the vital role of allyship in advancing inclusion and equity across the cybersecurity workforce – offering candid insights on leadership, accountability, and creating cultures where everyone can thrive.

Hosted by Infosecurity Magazine Editor, Beth Maundrill, the agenda will also feature a panel discussion titled “Embracing Diversity and Empowering Women in Cybersecurity.” The panel will comprise of some of the sector’s most influential women, including: Purvi Kay, Head of Cyber Security – FCAS, BAE Systems, Maritsa Santiago, CISO, LexisNexis Reed Technology, Lynette Kerry, Regional Sales Director EMEA, Akamai Technologies.

The panel will explore strategies to thrive in cybersecurity careers, how to utilise unique perspectives to drive meaningful change across the industry, and the importance of supporting neurodiversity while addressing gender-specific challenges in the workplace.

With women currently representing just 20–25% of the cybersecurity workforce, according to ISC2, growth is strongest among younger professionals. Infosecurity Europe’s Women in Cybersecurity event aims to continue this momentum by shining a spotlight on those leading the way and encouraging greater representation at all levels of the industry.

To close the programme, attendees are invited to join the Women in Cybersecurity Networking Reception from 16:40 – 18:00, also on the Keynote Stage, providing a relaxed and empowering space to share experiences, expand networks and explore career opportunities.

Keynote Stage, Wednesday 4 June 2025
15:00 – 15:05: Welcome from Infosecurity Magazine
15:05 – 15:40: Keynote: “Taking Up Space: How to Lead the Charge in Cybersecurity”
Speaker: Abadesi Osunsade, Founder & CEO, Hustle Crew
15:40 – 16:00: Allyship Talk with Bret Arsenault, Global Chief Security Advisor, Microsoft
16:00 – 16:40: Panel Discussion: Embracing Diversity and Empowering Women in Cybersecurity
16:40 – 18:00: Networking Reception

Brad Maule-ffinch, Event Director at Infosecurity Europe, commented: “The Women in Cybersecurity event remains a cornerstone of Infosecurity Europe, and this year’s line-up is amazing. Abadesi Osunsade’s keynote will offer a powerful take on personal leadership and building authentic confidence. It’s also a real coup for us to have Bret Arsenault, Microsoft’s Global Chief Security Advisor, join the programme. This is a rare opportunity to hear from one of the world’s most respected cybersecurity leaders, sharing his passion for allyship, mentoring, and building inclusive cultures.

“To close the day, we’ve assembled an outstanding panel to spotlight the crucial conversations that must stay at the forefront of our industry — especially as the gender imbalance in cybersecurity persists. Infosecurity Europe is proud to support this vital platform for visibility, progress, and lasting change.”

This session promises to be in high demand so make sure you secure your spot to take advantage of the opportunity to network with a community of powerful women, forge invaluable connections and find your tribe.

Registration for Infosecurity Europe 2025 is now open! Get your pass today and indicate your interest in the Women in Cybersecurity event when prompted during registration to receive updates.