Red Education is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Women in Cybersecurity Training Scholarship. Now in its second year, the scholarship program has doubled in size, from four scholarships in 2024 to eight in 2025, expanding the level of support for women entering or advancing in the cybersecurity industry.
We were overwhelmed by the number of high-quality, passionate, and thoughtful submissions received from around the world. With over 130 applications, the judges had the privilege of learning about the diverse journeys, aspirations, and talents of women determined to shape the future of cybersecurity.
“This year’s response shows the strength of interest and talent among women in cybersecurity,” said Mike Baird, CEO of Red Education. “Each submission reflected a genuine drive to contribute to a safer digital world. Narrowing the list down to just eight recipients was incredibly difficult, and I’d like to thank everyone who applied for sharing their story.”
About the Scholarship
The Red Education Women in Cybersecurity Training Scholarship was launched in 2024 in response to the global gender imbalance in cybersecurity, as well as the growing need for skilled professionals in the sector. The program is designed to help more deserving women access premium training and certification that can provide a launchpad into the field or accelerate existing careers.
In 2025, we offered eight scholarships:
- 4 x Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA)
- 4 x Palo Alto Networks EDU-210: Firewall Essentials – Configuration and Management
The scholarship covers full training delivered by Red Education’s award-winning expert instructors, with access to labs and certification pathways to give our winners the best chance of success in their careers.
Introducing the 2025 Winners
Meet the eight outstanding recipients of this year’s scholarships. Their stories reflect resilience, ambition, and a shared commitment to cybersecurity.
Irianna Rocha, United States
Check Point Security Administration (CCSA)
Currently undertaking postgraduate study in IT and looking to start her career in cybersecurity, Irianna’s submission showed clear alignment between her career goals and the training provided by the scholarship. A passionate advocate for inclusion, she is actively involved in SHPE, Latinas in Tech, Rewriting the Code, and ALPFA.
“This scholarship represents a crucial step toward my professional goals. It will allow me to deepen my understanding of network security and overcome the financial barriers to quality training.”
LeyaRavine Ezell, United States
Check Point Security Administration (CCSA)
A first-generation college student and single mother, LeyaRavine is completing her final year of study in cybersecurity. After a successful career in the beauty industry, she made the bold decision to pivot into technology, driven by a desire to provide a better future and inspire other women of color to enter the field.
“This scholarship will not only help me grow, but help me pave the way for others like me.”
Roshi Ettehadi, Australia
Check Point Security Administration (CCSA)
A postgraduate student who applied in her final semester of her Master of Computer Science, Roshi works in operational technology and is eager to build her capabilities in securing critical infrastructure. She brings practical experience and a clear interest in the intersection of AI and cybersecurity.
“This opportunity will allow me to move from awareness to action and contribute more meaningfully to protecting vital systems.”
Leia Reis, Australia
Check Point Security Administration (CCSA)
Originally from Brazil and now based in Australia, Leia has more than a decade of IT experience. At St Ann’s College, she has led digital transformation projects and now seeks to specialise in cybersecurity to help protect the systems she’s helped build.
“By investing in me, you’re helping me give back to the community that gave me my start.”
Nganiwe Sibale, Malawi
Palo Alto Networks EDU-210 Firewall Essentials – Configuration and Management
With nearly five years of hands-on cybersecurity experience and previous training with Red Education, Nganiwe is committed to professional growth and knowledge sharing. She’s worked in vulnerability assessment and incident response and is focused on mentoring others in the field.
“Winning this scholarship will accelerate my career and allow me to contribute more effectively to a safer digital world.”
Ujunwa Osita, Nigeria
Palo Alto Networks EDU-210 Firewall Essentials – Configuration and Management
A cybersecurity analyst and engineer with five years of experience, Ujunwa is pursuing a master’s degree to expand her capabilities further. Her application demonstrated both technical knowledge and a passion for mentoring and digital inclusion in underserved communities.
“This scholarship will not just train me, it will multiply impact across the networks I serve.”
Dhanashree Gajakosh, India
Palo Alto Networks EDU-210 Firewall Essentials – Configuration and Management
With nearly six years of experience in network security, Dhanashree applied to deepen her technical skills and advance her career. Her goals include contributing to the future of cybersecurity while showing that women can thrive and lead in the industry.
“I want to prove that a woman can stand strong in cybersecurity without relying on anyone else.”
Shibanjali Chowdhury, India
Palo Alto Networks EDU-210 Firewall Essentials – Configuration and Management
Shibanjali is a final-year student with a passion for cybersecurity and a clear commitment to building her capabilities. She has already completed foundational training and sees this scholarship as a pathway to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
“Winning this scholarship would allow me to contribute meaningfully to the cybersecurity community.”
Looking ahead
As the program grows, Red Education remains committed to expanding opportunities for women in cybersecurity and amplifying their contribution to a safer digital world. Each scholarship round strengthens a global network of women who are building confidence, earning respected credentials, and proving the power of diverse perspectives in solving complex security challenges.
“Cybersecurity needs diverse thinkers, and women bring essential skills and perspectives to the industry,” said Mike Baird. “To every applicant this year — thank you. Your stories were inspiring, and your futures are bright. And to our winners, congratulations. We look forward to supporting your journey.”
