As a cybersecurity professional in New Zealand, I have had a unique journey that has taught me many valuable lessons along the way. In this post, I will share my experiences and insights gained from working in this exciting and ever-changing field. My journey in cybersecurity started with a passion for technology and a desire to make a difference in the world. I studied computer science and information security at university, and after graduating, I began my career as a security analyst for a large multinational company. During this time, I learned the basics of cybersecurity, including programming, network security, and systems administration. I also gained valuable experience in incident response, vulnerability scanning and remediation, and penetration testing. After several years in the corporate world, I decided to move into the public sector, where I could use my expertise to help protect New Zealand's critical infrastructure and government systems. In my role as a government cybersecurity specialist, I have had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of teams and stakeholders, including government agencies, international partners, and private sector organizations. This has given me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing cybersecurity in New Zealand. One of the biggest lessons I have learned as a cybersecurity professional is the importance of collaboration and communication. Cybersecurity is not just a technical issue; it is an organizational and cultural challenge that requires a holistic approach. This means working closely with business stakeholders to understand their needs and priorities, as well as partnering with other cybersecurity professionals to share information and best practices. By building strong relationships and fostering a culture of openness and transparency, we can create a more secure and resilient digital ecosystem for New Zealand. Another lesson I have learned is the need for continuous learning and professional development. Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving field, with new threats and technologies emerging all the time. To stay ahead of the curve, cybersecurity professionals need to be constantly upskilling and expanding their knowledge base. This might mean pursuing advanced degrees or certifications, attending industry conferences and events, or engaging in online learning communities. By investing in our own education and growth, we can better serve our organizations and our country. Lastly, I have learned the importance of risk management and a risk-based approach to cybersecurity. In today's digital landscape, it is impossible to prevent every cyberattack, but we can prioritize our resources and efforts to minimize the impact of potential breaches. This means identifying our most critical assets and systems, assessing our vulnerabilities and weaknesses, and developing strategies to mitigate and respond to cyber incidents. By taking a proactive and strategic approach to risk management, we can better protect our organizations and our customers from cyber threats. In conclusion, life as a cybersecurity professional in New Zealand is both challenging and rewarding. We face a rapidly evolving threat landscape, but we also have the opportunity to make a real difference in our organizations and our country. By focusing on collaboration, continuous learning, and risk management, we can build a more secure and resilient digital future for New Zealand.