ITU Her CyberTracks Initiative 2026 for Women in Cybersecurity

Job Description

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Are you a woman looking to advance your career in cybersecurity, cyber policy, AI security, or cybercrime? The Her CyberTracks Initiative 2026 for Women in Cybersecurity offers an internationally recognized program to develop your skills, gain mentorship, and build a professional network. International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is inviting applications for its fourth edition of this global initiative, designed to empower women in cybersecurity through structured training and real-world exposure.

This programme is ideal for women seeking to grow into leadership roles, strengthen technical expertise, and make meaningful contributions in cybersecurity-related fields.

About the Her CyberTracks Initiative 2026

The Her CyberTracks Initiative 2026 is a multi-month, women-focused development programme organized under the ITU Cybersecurity Programme. Its goal is to ensure women have equal access to opportunities in cybersecurity by combining practical skills, policy understanding, mentorship, and networking.

The programme includes:

• Expert-led learning sessions
• Self-paced online courses
• Regional on-site trainings
• Mentorship from senior cybersecurity professionals
• Cross-regional networking and collaboration

Participants gain the knowledge and confidence to thrive in cybersecurity careers while developing the leadership skills necessary to influence the field globally.

Programme Benefits

Selected participants will enjoy a structured five-month training programme designed to build both technical and leadership capacity, including:

• Access to high-level cybersecurity training
• Learning across technical, policy, legal, and AI-related cybersecurity themes
• Mentorship from experienced cybersecurity professionals
• Regional on-site training opportunities
• Exposure to international collaboration and networking
• Opportunity to build a strong global cybersecurity network
• Possible travel sponsorship for regional training events

Available CyberTracks

Applicants must select the CyberTrack that aligns with their experience and career goals:

1. Policy & Diplomacy CyberTrack

For women interested in cybersecurity policy, international affairs, and cyber diplomacy.

Focus Areas:

• Cybersecurity policy frameworks
• International cyber diplomacy
• Cyber governance and regulations
• Negotiation and leadership
• Cross-border collaboration

Eligibility:

• 2–3 years of experience in policy, diplomacy, technology, cybersecurity, peace, or security
• Technical cybersecurity experience with interest in policy is also accepted

2. Incident Response CyberTrack

For women looking to develop hands-on skills in cybersecurity operations and incident handling.

Focus Areas:

• Core cybersecurity concepts
• Incident response procedures
• Cybersecurity tools and AI-enhanced incident management
• Crisis communication and teamwork

Eligibility:

• 2–3 years in IT/network administration or
• At least 1 year in CERT, SOC, or critical infrastructure security
• Basic system administration, network knowledge, Linux or Windows familiarity

3. Criminal Justice CyberTrack

For women working in the criminal justice system and interested in cybercrime and digital investigations.

Focus Areas:

• Cybercrime typologies
• Legal and institutional frameworks
• Cyber investigations and prosecutions
• AI, ethics, and human rights in digital investigations

Eligibility:

• 2–3 years of experience in criminal justice or related fields

4. Cyber & AI CyberTrack

For women interested in the intersection of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

Focus Areas:

• Fundamentals of AI
• AI-related risks and opportunities in cyber
• AI and cybersecurity policy and regulations
• Organizational readiness and international cooperation

Eligibility:

• 2–3 years of experience in policy, diplomacy, or cybersecurity
• Technical professionals interested in AI governance and cyber policy

Who Can Apply?

• Women residing in eligible countries across Africa, Americas, Arab States, Asia & Pacific, CIS, and Europe
• Experience matching the chosen CyberTrack
• Good working knowledge of English
• Willingness to commit 10–15 hours per month for the programme duration

Mentorship Opportunity

Experienced cybersecurity professionals can also apply as mentors to support the advancement of women in the field. Mentors should have:

• Proven expertise in cybersecurity
• Senior or managerial experience
• Experience in public, private, academic, justice, or civil society sectors

Programme Benefits

Participants will:

• Build technical and leadership capabilities
• Expand professional networks
• Gain access to mentors
• Develop credibility and visibility in cybersecurity
• Position themselves for future leadership opportunities

Application Deadline

19 April 2026

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should click the Apply Button Now.

This is your chance to join an international programme that develops women leaders in cybersecurity while providing practical skills, mentorship, and networking to succeed globally.