We Open Tech (WOT) and the Diana Initiative have announced their merger, forming an international community dedicated to uplifting marginalized individuals in the cybersecurity and tech industries. The collaboration brings together two organizations with a shared vision of fostering inclusivity, providing professional development opportunities, and promoting diversity in the field. This alliance comes at a crucial time when the representation of underrepresented groups remains a pressing issue in the technology sector.
Uniting Forces for Greater Impact: We Open Tech, known for its efforts in elevating people of marginalized genders, has been working within in the cybersecurity and tech community over the past two years. By joining hands with the Diana Initiative, an organization committed to supporting underrepresented individuals in Information Security since 2016, they aim to expand their reach and create a more inclusive and diverse industry.
Chloé Messdaghi, Co-Founder of We Open Tech, expressed her enthusiasm for the merger, stating, “Our missions have been aligned with one another since WOT was founded. Today more than ever, marginalized persons need and deserve the best and most possible opportunities for mentoring relationships, professional development, career opportunities, and support.”
The Need for Inclusivity: While progress has been made towards inclusivity in the technology community, there are still significant challenges to overcome. The current political climate and persistent biases act as obstacles to the participation and representation of marginalized individuals in the industry. The merger between We Open Tech and the Diana Initiative seeks to support these individuals and provide a platform for underrepresented voices to be heard and valued.
Nicole Schwartz, COO of the Diana Initiative, emphasized the importance of representation, particularly for the trans community. “Now is the right time to come together because our members in the trans community need and deserve the representation that the Diana Initiative offers. Our shared vision and synergy welcome all who are underrepresented and foster their professional growth.”
Fostering Growth and Breaking Barriers: The consolidation of We Open Tech and the Diana Initiative comes at a critical juncture when the cybersecurity talent shortage and gatekeeping practices hinder the formation of diverse and robust security teams. By combining their resources, expertise, and networks, the newly merged organization aims to break down these barriers and cultivate a more inclusive tech sector.
Diana Initiative’s Nicole Schwartz expressed their commitment, stating, “We believe that every single person, regardless of their background, should have the ability to enter and grow their careers in the tech sector.”
The 2023 Diana Initiative Conference: The merger will also have an immediate increased impact with the upcoming Diana Initiative Conference, scheduled for August 7, 2023, at The Westin Las Vegas Hotel & Spa. With the theme of “Lead the Change,” the conference will feature a range of sessions, including speakers, career fairs, lockpick villages, maker villages, and hands-on workshops. It will provide a platform for marginalized professionals to network, learn, and advance their careers.