DE&I: 5 Strategies to Advance Accessibility & Inclusion in Cyber Security

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I frequently engage in discussions with HR & TA leaders, Tech teams, and Industry experts. One pressing issue that consistently emerges is the lack of true Accessibility and Inclusion within the field. While cyber security professionals work tirelessly to secure the digital world, many of the systems, tools, and processes they rely on fail to meet the needs of all users—especially those with Disabilities, Neurodivergent individuals, and Underrepresented groups. This oversight not only alienates vast talent pools but also jeopardises the very security we seek to maintain.

15% of the global population lives with some form of disability—a group that is often overlooked in tech fields. Yet despite this, most cyber security tools and processes are not designed with accessibility in mind. Furthermore, research reveals that nearly 40% of cyber security professionals feel excluded from career advancement due to a lack of Inclusive Policies, highlighting the tangible and ongoing barriers faced by diverse groups within the industry. If we are to close the cyber security skills gap and build a stronger, more resilient industry, we must ensure accessibility is woven into the very fabric of our organisations and technologies.

I’ll delve into why Accessibility and Inclusion are critical for cyber security’s future and outline five actionable steps to make the industry more Accessible, starting with ensuring security tools are usable for all.

Why Accessibility and Inclusion Matter in Cyber Security

1. Expanding the Talent Pool to Address the Skills Shortage: The global cyber security talent gap remains one of the most pressing issues facing the industry today. In 2023, the shortage of skilled workers was estimated at 3.4 million globally- as report by the ICS2. By fostering a more inclusive environment—where people of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities and neurodivergent individuals, are actively recruited and supported—we can unlock vast new pools of untapped talent. For example, a significant number of neurodiverse individuals excel at pattern recognition, making them particularly well-suited for tasks such as threat hunting and vulnerability scanning. Yet, too many are excluded from consideration due to a lack of inclusive hiring practices.
2. Enhancing Innovation Through Diverse Perspectives: Cyber security is fundamentally about solving complex, constantly evolving challenges. Diverse teams are proven to outperform homogenous ones in problem-solving, as they bring a variety of perspectives that can lead to more creative solutions. According to McKinsey’s Diversity Wins report, companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on executive teams are 25% more likely to have above-average profitability. In a similar vein, promoting accessibility and inclusion in cyber security allows for more varied approaches to securing digital assets, enabling organisations to stay one step ahead of cyber threats.
3. Fostering Equity and Inclusion Across the Digital Ecosystem: Cyber security isn't just about protecting businesses—it's about safeguarding society. As technology becomes increasingly central to daily life, it’s essential that cyber          security measures accommodate all users. Globally, 1.3 billion people live with some form of visual impairment. If security tools, websites, and applications aren’t designed with these users in mind, it could have severe consequences for their ability to access digital services safely. By prioritising accessibility, we build a safer, more equitable digital world for everyone.

Top 5 Ways to Advance Accessibility & Inclusion in Cyber Security

1. Redesign Recruitment and Onboarding Processes for Inclusivity

• Cyber security organisations should take proactive steps to ensure their recruitment processes are accessible to all. This can be as simple as ensuring job descriptions are free from gendered language or industry jargon that might discourage people from applying. Implementing blind recruitment—where candidates’ personal details, such as gender, name, or age, are anonymised—has proven to reduce unconscious bias in hiring
• Additionally, ensuring that application forms, job portals, and career websites are compatible with assistive technologies—such as screen readers and voice command software—will provide equitable access to all candidates.

2. Cultivate Neurodiversity-Friendly Workplaces

• Neurodiversity is an often-overlooked aspect of inclusion. Individuals on the autism spectrum, for example, may thrive in roles that require high levels of concentration and pattern recognition but can struggle with traditional workplace structures. Offering flexible working environments—whether in terms of hours or location—can make a significant difference. Some organisations, such as Auticon, a consultancy that exclusively hires neurodivergent professionals, have demonstrated the incredible value of a neurodiverse workforce.
• Promoting clear and structured communication, reducing sensory distractions in the workplace, and providing tailored mentoring and support can also enable neurodivergent employees to succeed.

3. Make Security Tools Accessible and Usable for All

• Accessible Design Principles: Cyber security tools are often complicated, with interfaces that can be overwhelming for new or non-technical users. By embracing universal design principles, such as consistent layout, readable fonts, and scalable user interfaces, organisations can make tools accessible to a wider range of users. The UK Government’s Digital Service has already shown that such changes not only make websites and tools more inclusive, but also improve overall user satisfaction and reduce errors
• Assistive Technologies: Ensure that cyber security software is compatible with screen readers, keyboard-only navigation, and other assistive devices. Tools like voice-commanded firewalls or automatic threat detection systems that are optimised for voice commands could be game-changers for individuals with mobility impairments. Additionally, providing multiple forms of documentation (such as audio, video, or large print versions) can make security tools more approachable for a wider audience.

4. Create a Culture of True Inclusion

• A focus on accessibility needs to go beyond policies and processes—it should be embedded in the organisational culture. Leadership must set the tone, ensuring that diversity and inclusion are integral to every decision. Training programmes focused on unconscious bias and accessibility awareness can help foster empathy and understanding.
• Encouraging feedback loops—where employees at all levels feel empowered to report on accessibility challenges and propose solutions—will ensure continuous improvement in inclusive practices. For instance, holding regular accessibility audits of tools and processes can help identify and resolve hidden barriers to inclusion.

5. Implement Mentorship and Career Advancement for All

• Ensuring that all employees have access to mentorship and career development resources is essential. This is particularly important for those from underrepresented backgrounds, who often face additional hurdles in terms of career progression. Mentorship programmes that connect junior employees with senior leaders, particularly those who have faced similar challenges, can be crucial in ensuring that everyone has an equal chance to grow.
• Additionally, tracking diversity metrics, such as gender and disability representation in leadership roles, helps organisations identify and address any gaps in opportunity and progression.

As the cyber security landscape continues to evolve, the call for accessibility and inclusion becomes more urgent. Only by embracing accessibility for all can we build a truly resilient cyber security industry—one that is not just secure but also fair, equitable, and forward-thinking. Whether through designing tools that cater to a diverse range of users or ensuring that recruitment and career development practices are inclusive, every step we take towards greater accessibility strengthens the industry as a whole.

By recognising and addressing the accessibility and inclusion challenges in cyber security, we not only unlock untapped talent but also create a more secure digital future for everyone.

At SECURE | CYBER CONNECT, we believe that tackling Cultural, Technological and Talent Acquisition challenges requires collaboration among industry stakeholders. Let’s work together to address these challenges and secure a brighter future for our industry. Connect with us today to explore how we can help you find the talent needed to protect your business and drive innovation for tomorrow.

Introducing Aliyu Yisa

we have the privilege of welcoming Aliyu Yisa, a forward-thinking cyber security leader who is breaking new ground in making the industry more inclusive and accessible. Aliyu is the co-founder of Fezzant, a pioneering start-up on a mission to make cyber security both accessible and effective for all, with a particular focus on addressing systemic barriers in technology. He is also the co-founder of CyBlack, a non-profit organisation that empowers Black talent by offering mentorship, guidance, and professional development opportunities in cyber security. Aliyu’s expertise spans software engineering and cyber security, and his work is driven by a passion for creating technological solutions that are both innovative and inclusive. Recognised as a finalist at the National Cyber Awards 2023 and an alumnus of the NCSC for Start-Ups, Aliyu’s insights are invaluable to anyone looking to make a real impact in both the cyber security space and wider tech industry.

Introduction to CyBlack

CyBlack is a pioneering initiative that is dedicated to increasing diversity, inclusion, and accessibility within the cyber security industry, with a particular focus on empowering Black professionals. In a sector where talent shortages and lack of diversity remain significant challenges, CyBlack plays a vital role by offering mentorship, career development opportunities, and hands-on training to ensure Black talent is prepared for key cyber security roles. The initiative’s partnership with global leaders such as Cisco Networking Academy and the SOC Academy is central to this mission, providing targeted training for individuals to thrive in roles such as Security Analysts and SOC Engineers—critical positions within the cyber security field. Beyond talent development, CyBlack also assists organisations in improving the accessibility of their cyber security tools and processes, ensuring that they are inclusive to a wider range of users. Through its collaborations, CyBlack advocates for design principles that make security tools and platforms more user-friendly, particularly for underrepresented and disabled communities. This work supports the creation of a more equitable digital landscape, where organisations can access a broader pool of talent while simultaneously ensuring their cyber security tools are accessible to all. With its holistic approach—encompassing skill-building, accessibility improvements, and strategic partnerships—CyBlack is driving both industry innovation and systemic change in cyber security.

We would like to commend Aliyu G. Y. and the visionary co-founders Dr Iretioluwa Akerele , Omotolani Olowosule, PhD , Febisola O. , Jude Osamor , Simbiat S. , Onyekachi Anyalechi for their transformative contributions to the tech and cyber security fields. Your leadership and commitment to empowering others are inspiring. The doors you're opening today will catalyse lasting change and progress for generations to come. Thank you for creating pathways of opportunity and for being catalysts of positive transformation. Your brilliance is shaping a more inclusive and innovative future.

Introducing Fezzant

Fezzant is a pioneering cybersecurity company focused on integrating accessibility and inclusion within the industry. Their mission is to ensure that all individuals, regardless of ability, can securely engage with digital systems. Fezzant offers tools, educational resources, and consulting services to organisations, helping them comply with accessibility standards and enhance user experiences. Their notable partnerships and recognitions include the National Cyber Security Centre for start up Alumini, Plexal , Microsoft for Startups , UNESCO , Cybarik , Aiculus and The National Cyber Awards .

Why Our Latest Podcast Episode is a Must-Listen

This episode is essential listening for anyone in the Technology, Information & Cyber Security space. Aliyu dives deep into the critical topic of accessibility in cyber security, providing actionable insights on why it is no longer enough to simply design security tools for a select group of users. With nearly 15% of the global population living with some form of disability, the need for accessibility in digital security has never been more pressing. Aliyu’s perspectives on integrating accessibility into cyber security practices will challenge your thinking and inspire action within your organisation.

We also explore how mentorship and leadership within start-ups can foster a culture of innovation and inclusion, with Aliyu offering practical strategies for supporting and developing the next generation of cyber security talent. Whether you're looking to improve collaboration between developers and security teams or want to learn how to create a truly inclusive environment in your workplace, this episode offers crucial takeaways that will help shape the future of cyber security.

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