Btissam Laaouina is a passionate Italian Moroccan CyberSecurity Manager. She holds a degree in Telecommunication Engineering and a master’s in digital Transformation from the polytechnic of Turin. Btissam is certified with CCISO, CISSP, CISM, ITIL V4, and other notable qualifications. Her expertise and enthusiasm in the field of cybersecurity make her a prominent figure in the industry. She also enjoys nature, mountains, horseback riding, and has a special fondness for bees. In 2024, she was selected as one of the incredible women shaping the cybersecurity landscape. Btissam also loves to travel, explore, and speak multiple languages including Arabic, French, English, Italian, German, and Spanish.
A little over a decade ago, I embarked on a journey that would transform the way I perceive the world of cybersecurity. My path has been a diverse one, leading me through industries such as the cruise sector, automotive, and finance. Yet, what truly defined this journey was the moment I discovered my passion for cybersecurity.
It was at that moment, a decade ago, that I realized that cybersecurity is not merely a technical task but a living, breathing part of an organization’s identity. This revelation ignited a passion within me, a passion for making cybersecurity accessible and efficient for everyone.
This vision extends beyond the boundaries of traditional cybersecurity departments. It’s about creating a top-down security culture, led by leaders who share this passion and understand the importance of weaving security into the very fabric of the organization.
To safeguard data and uphold the principles of the CIA Triad—confidentiality, integrity, and availability—we must embrace simplicity as a powerful ally. In a field often associated with complexity, my message is straightforward: complexity does not equate to security.
The human element, often the weakest link in security, is a critical aspect that cannot be ignored. Education and awareness are essential to empower individuals and strengthen our collective security posture. Inclusivity and diversity, particularly in gender representation, are key elements of this vision, driving innovation and fresh perspectives.
Security shapes our digital landscape, yet one size doesn’t fit all. Each organization faces unique challenges and requires tailored solutions. It’s about understanding the specific needs and risks of each environment and implementing measures accordingly. This personalized approach ensures that security efforts are effective and efficient.
Moreover, cybersecurity is not solely the responsibility of IT departments. It’s a collective effort that involves every individual within an organization. From the CEO to the interns, everyone plays a role in maintaining a secure environment. Building a culture of security requires collaboration and communication across all levels of the organization.
As technology evolves, so do the threats we face. It’s essential to stay ahead of the curve and continuously adapt our security measures. This requires a proactive approach to threat detection and mitigation, as well as ongoing education and training for employees.
In conclusion, my journey from the past decade has transformed my perspective on cybersecurity, evolving curiosity into a passionate commitment. It’s a vision that’s not just for the experts but for everyone, and it’s a message that I’m deeply committed to sharing with the world.