As a first-time dad, I find myself inspired by the profound joy of my venture into fatherhood. Blessed with a daughter I shall affectionately name Miss Mango; I am awe-struck at her brilliant mind and calm demeanor. Life has an intriguing way of presenting us with unique moments to cherish, moments that serve as stepping-stones on our life journey. The importance of pausing to reflect on these recent experiences should not be overlooked - they arm us with life-enhancing lessons, enabling us to navigate life's hurricanes and peaceful harbors alike.
In honor of International Women's Day (IWD) on March 8, a global day celebrating the vast achievements of women while also making a call to action for accelerating gender parity, I would like to take the time to acknowledge the pivotal women in my life. As a husband, a son and, of late, a father to the delightful Miss Mango, the occasion calls for a moment of gratitude and reflection. My spouse, the woman I serendipitously met in Chicago years ago, weaved life's journey with me from traversing continents to settling in the Pacific Northwest and arriving at our most cherished chapter yet - parenthood. As a global technology leader and inspirational advocate, she is my unwavering confidante, my rousing promoter and my astute critic, the lighthouse guiding me through life’s triumphs and trials. I owe a debt of gratitude to my mother - my first teacher and my lifelong guide. Her unconditional love and support having shaped me into the person I am today. She spiritedly drove countless miles to basketball practices and golf matches, patiently walked through homework and stood as my caregiver during times of illness. To her, I offer my deepest thanks. I extend my appreciation to my mother-in-law, the silent protector of our family. Her wisdom and nurturing have enriched my understanding, urging me towards a home that thrives on timeless values and traditions. It's a joy working towards a common aim of enhancing our home's cohesion and our future stability. My sister-in-law, the advocate of thought-provoking ideas, deserves special mention. Our mutual exchanges on societal matters have enlightened and broadened my perspective. Her optimism and innovative approach often challenge the norm and provoke thought and discussion. The pinnacle of this tribute is our pride and joy, my daughter, Miss Mango. Her arrival has permeated our lives with unparalleled joy and responsibility. As she blossoms, I hope to create an environment where she can flourish, unconstrained by prejudice or limitation. May she dare to dream and strive for those dreams with assurance, knowing she stands on an equal footing with the world. IWD might only be one day on the calendar, but it exists each day as a personal mandate. We have a long road still to travel to reach an egalitarian society, where opportunities are not bestowed based on gender but on merit and potential. The late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg once said, "Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time." It is a reminder for us all to relentlessly pursue change for the advancement of women. It begins in our homes and circles, with our mothers, spouses, partners, sisters and daughters and extends to every woman across the world. Thank you to the pivotal women in my world, for all that you have done and continue to do. Here's to your resilience, your wisdom, and your vision. I join hands with you in solidarity this International Women's Day, in creating a world that respects and cherishes the uniqueness and strengths of every woman. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.
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As a first-time dad, I find myself inspired by the profound joy of my venture into fatherhood. Blessed with a daughter I shall affectionately name Miss Mango; I am awe-struck at her brilliant mind and calm demeanor. Life has an intriguing way of presenting us with unique moments to cherish, moments that serve as stepping-stones on our life journey. The importance of pausing to reflect on these recent experiences should not be overlooked - they arm us with life-enhancing lessons, enabling us to navigate life's hurricanes and peaceful harbors alike.
Following my recently published article, I felt compelled to delve deeper into the history of women's professional sports. This in addition to highlighting more of the awe-inspiring, record-breaking athletic journey of Caitlin Clark who now stands alone as the NCAA basketball scoring leader. The prodigious Clark has and will continue to reset benchmarks in women's basketball, bringing a renewed sense of parity to the game. Impressively, the top five most requested NCAA women's basketball matches have all showcased her performances for the Iowa Hawkeyes according to the ticket marketplace Vivid Seats. Having grown up with a basketball never far from reach, I can attest to tuning into more of Clark's games than I can count in recent past. With match tickets persistently in escalating demand, Clark's considerable influence on young dreamers everywhere is inescapable. Clark's growing dominance aside. For over a century, women in sports have been challenging the status quo, rewriting what's considered possible, and paving the way for generations of future athletes to chase their dreams. Among these trailblazers are Babe Didrikson Zaharias and Jackie Joyner-Kersee. Didrikson, one of the greatest athletes of the 20th century, competed in an environment traditionally reserved for men. As a multi-sport athlete who excelled at basketball, track and field, and golf, she shined at the 1932 Olympics and was a co-founder of the LPGA. Her thirst for sports was paralleled only by her courage in facing cancer, using her personal struggle as a platform to advocate for cancer research. In establishing the Babe Didrikson Zaharias Foundation, she extended her legacy beyond her own lifetime, creating opportunities for young, promising athletes. Following Didrikson's pioneering footsteps, Joyner-Kersee overcame her humble beginnings and a lifelong battle against severe asthma to become one of the greatest heptathletes and long jumpers in history. Winner of multiple Olympic medals and world record setter, Joyner-Kersee's influence extended into community service as well through her Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation, working tirelessly to provide resources and opportunities for youth, adults, and families to improve their quality of life. Her story demonstrates that not only dreams but also grit and determination spur us towards greatness. Today, Clark continues this tradition of breaking boundaries and inspiring others. A freshman point guard at the University of Iowa, Clark led the nation in both points and assists per game and has been rewriting the record books with her spectacular performances ever since. Yet, what grips us most is not just her accolades, but her influence on the game. Clark is drawing more attention to women's basketball and inspiring countless young players, which has reflected in the number of sellout crowds and the noticeable excitement she brings to the court. Her story is still in progress, yet she is fundamentally altering the landscape of basketball and contributing meaningfully to her community through various outreach programs. Indeed, these women embody an essential truth: societal constraints and personal tribulations do not define us; it's how we rise above them that counts. They remind us that to truly change the world, one must have not only talent but the will to surpass expectations, the tenacity to conquer adversities, and the humility to help others. In sharing their stories, I hope Miss Mango realizes her potential is limitless. Whether she aims to become a CEO, world-class athlete, scientist, math teacher, or cybersecurity professional, she can look to Didrikson, Joyner-Kersee, and Clark as models of perseverance, grit, and success. As we witness Caitlin Clark's meteoric rise and anticipate her potential as the 2024 WNBA Draft's #1 pick, we're reminded of Michael Jordan's words. "Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.” Like him, these women persevered. Their legacy lies not just in their historical performances but also in paving the path for future athletes, leaders, and change-makers. They took on societal norms, bravely faced their personal challenges, and each, in her own way, changed the game. Their contributions will undoubtedly inspire Miss Mango and many others to dream big and achieve even greater. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. As a first-time dad, I find myself inspired by the profound joy of my venture into fatherhood. Blessed with a daughter I shall affectionately name Miss Mango; I am awe-struck at her brilliant mind and calm demeanor. Life has an intriguing way of presenting us with unique moments to cherish, moments that serve as stepping-stones on our life journey. The importance of pausing to reflect on these recent experiences should not be overlooked - they arm us with life-enhancing lessons, enabling us to navigate life's hurricanes and peaceful harbors alike.
As I cradle Miss Mango, an entire galaxy of possibilities swirls before us, filled with visions of success not only on the athletics field but also in the boardroom. These dreams are kindled by the mighty torch lit by the resolute women who relentlessly pursued their ambitions, breaking records and shattering glass ceilings in every arena they stepped into. Of such inspirational figures, the world of women's basketball parades a glittering array of ground-breaking athletes who have crafted a unique heritage of strength, prowess, and sheer determination. At the top of these trailblazers is Caitlin Clark, the University of Iowa's star player who recently engraved her name in sports history as the NCAA Division I women's career scoring leader. Pulling up from practically the logo's vicinity, Clark launched a three-pointer that forever forged her name amongst the greats. But setting records is not Clark's end game; her drive to surpass her personal best epitomizes the never-ending journey to excellence we should strive. And standing alongside Clark as a testament to hard work and perseverance is Sabrina Ionescu. Her recent three-point battle with NBA legend Stephen Curry was more than an electric display of skill; it symbolized a significant stride toward gender parity in professional sports. Ionescu went head-to-head, heart-to-heart with a rival from the NBA, making the greatest shooter in NBA history work for every point. This competition crafted a new narrative, where the 'versus' in the contest was replaced by an 'and,' drawing a parallel between men's and women's achievements in basketball. Reflecting on these recent feats, we can't overlook the fundamental contribution of basketball legends such as Cheryl Miller and Sue Bird, whose paths were not strewn with rose petals. They played through times when the recognition, endorsement, and publishing deals that present women players enjoy were distant dreams. Cheryl Miller, with her outstanding ability, would likely have been the most dominant player in women's basketball had the WNBA existed in her prime era of mid-80s. Her legacy, however, didn't stop at her playing days. She chose to weave her wisdom acquired from her playing years into the rising tide of new players, both in college and professional arenas. Then there's Sue Bird, a name synonymous with longevity, consistency, and dominance in women's basketball. Spending two decades traversing the basketball court for Seattle Storm, Bird's career was an awe-inspiring journey of adapting, reinventing, and outlasting herself every season. From being the No.1 overall pick of WNBA to becoming a future Hall of Famer, Bird's career relays a simple yet compelling message – the path to greatness is not straight but winding, filled with challenges and detours, but it's worth every step. The stories of these powerful women are more than accounts of personal victories; they are beacons that light our way towards creating an empowering, inclusive, and equal platform for our future champions. Women like Clark, Ionescu, Miller, and Bird, who pushed boundaries, broke records, and never settled for anything less than greatness, are an eternal source of inspiration for our daughters. They are empowering proof that with grit and determination, any dream, no matter how ambitious, is within reach. And as Miss Mango grows up, I wish for her to believe in her aspirations and to create her unique path of achievement, be it in a boardroom or the athletics field. For the future belongs to her and every girl who dares to dream and strives to turn it into reality. As a first-time dad, I find myself inspired by the profound joy of my venture into fatherhood. Blessed with a daughter I shall affectionately name Miss Mango; I am awe-struck at her brilliant mind and calm demeanor. Life has an intriguing way of presenting us with unique moments to cherish, moments that serve as stepping-stones on our life journey. The importance of pausing to reflect on these recent experiences should not be overlooked - they arm us with life-enhancing lessons, enabling us to navigate life's hurricanes and peaceful harbors alike.
Stepping outside the realm of cybersecurity momentarily, I reflected recently on our past year as a family. More specifically, maternal healthcare and the practices for prenatal and labor, as well as postpartum support. It has never been clearer that improvements are needed. Our societal responsibility goes beyond ensuring the safety and well-being of mothers—it extends to the very backbone of our communities and the health of future generations. The stark contrast between the invaluable role of motherhood and the resources dedicated for their care is a disquieting reality that underlines the deemphasis on societal priorities. We can do more. Consider the Numbers: The average amount of time a woman spends in the hospital during labor, coupled with the subsequent postpartum, is substantial. First time mothers may be in active labor for an average of 8-14 hours, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Postpartum hospital stays can also vary as well. In many countries, including the United States, the length of a hospital stay may range from 24 to 96 hours depending upon the delivery method. The costs associated with this time are undeniably significant. Hospital stays alone can range from $11,000 to $26,000, sometimes higher pending the length of the stay. Beyond the hospital, the postpartum period commonly refers to the initial six weeks after childbirth. However, some experts consider the postpartum period to extend up to a year after the birth of a baby. Equally noteworthy are the millions of people navigating these processes without insurance coverage. Highlighting yet another critical improvement opportunity in the healthcare system's ability to safeguard those bringing new life into the world. To bolster maternal healthcare, below are a few areas we can, as a society, further examine for consideration.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. As a first-time dad, I find myself inspired by the profound joy of my venture into fatherhood. Blessed with a daughter I shall affectionately name Miss Mango; I am awe-struck at her brilliant mind and calm demeanor. Life has an intriguing way of presenting us with unique moments to cherish, moments that serve as stepping-stones on our life journey. The importance of pausing to reflect on these recent experiences should not be overlooked - they arm us with life-enhancing lessons, enabling us to navigate life's hurricanes and peaceful harbors alike.
Navigating the challenges of parenting, the dynamic field of cybersecurity, and the intense world of professional tennis, I find intriguing parallels that underscore the importance of resilience, adaptability, and perseverance. In the grind of parenthood, each day unfolds with unexpected challenges and continuous changes, much like the twists and turns of a tennis match. The sleepless nights and endless diaper changes, akin to the constant adjustments and mitigation strategies required in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity. Both demand an unwavering commitment to the well-being of those we are responsible for—whether it's the safety of our family or the security of our digital space. The Australian Open serves as a vivid metaphor for these experiences. As we watched professionals compete on the infamous blue surface of Rod Laver Arena, enduring extremes and pushing their limits, it resonates with the endurance required in parenting and the grit needed in the world of cybersecurity. The packed stands in Melbourne and the collective cheers mirror the collaborative efforts in responding to and containing cybersecurity incidents, where a united front is crucial. This month's events capped off by this weekend's spectacle, with a former champion showcasing unparalleled endurance, speaks to the resilience needed not just in sports but in every facet of life. Parenthood is an endurance sport of its own, demanding perseverance through sleep deprivation, emotional highs and lows, and the unpredictable nature of our little Miss Mango. Similarly, in cybersecurity, professionals endure constant pressure to mitigate risks, respond to incidents, and adapt to new threats. Miss Mango's innocent fascination with the little yellow balls flying across the court this month mirrors the wonder we experience in introducing our children to the world. It's akin to the first time they taste ice cream, or a newly minted cybersecurity professional leads the response to their first incident, with each moment etching a lasting impression. As we witnessed champions rise, fall, and new ones emerge, it echoes the cycles of challenges and triumphs we navigate in our parenting journey and the ever-shifting domain of cybersecurity. The two final matches this weekend, one marked by a back-to-back champion's flawless dominance in their tournament's 14 sets and a former champion initially dominating but then yielding the last three sets to an emerging champion, highlighting the unpredictability that colors life's journey. In this shared experience with Miss Mango—cooing and giggling alongside the tennis matches—I'm reminded that the skills and qualities developed in parenting and cybersecurity are intertwined. The ability to adapt, stay resilient, and find joy in the midst of challenges is a universal thread that weaves through parenthood, cybersecurity, and the world of professional sports. It's a beautiful portrait of life's complexities, and as we sit side by side, I'm grateful for the shared moments that connect these seemingly disparate worlds. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. As a first-time dad, I find myself inspired by the profound joy of my venture into fatherhood. Blessed with a daughter I shall affectionately name Miss Mango; I am awe-struck at her brilliant mind and calm demeanor. Life has an intriguing way of presenting us with unique moments to cherish, moments that serve as stepping-stones on our life journey. The importance of pausing to reflect on these recent experiences should not be overlooked - they arm us with life-enhancing lessons, enabling us to navigate life's hurricanes and peaceful harbors alike.
As Miss Mango continues her speedy development, I noticed navigating the world of cybersecurity continues to mirror aspects of fatherhood, particularly the shared values of commitment, perseverance, determination, communication, and versatility. Aspiring cybersecurity professionals and students seeking to enter into the cybersecurity field often associate the transition solely with technical expertise. While technical know-how is undoubtedly important, non-technical skills are equally, sometimes even more, critical. Foremost among these skills is commitment - an all-in attitude and a willingness to continually learn are pivotally important. Cybersecurity is dynamic with rapidly evolving threats and technologies, and a keen, committed learner (technical skills or not) can make significant contributions. Channeling an image reminiscent of Miss Mango's unwavering dedication to her feeding and her nap time, professionals and students alike can embrace a similar degree of commitment. Devoting the necessary time and resources to remain updated in their particular field or sector of interest, as well as the broader contours of the cybersecurity industry, can make all the difference in staying ahead of the curve. Perseverance is a trait rewarded in both technical and non-technical roles. When things don’t go as planned, which they often don’t, it is your resilience that can make the difference - very much like comforting a restless Miss Mango at any given hour of the day or night. Determination is crucial, irrespective of the skill set you bring to the table. In every corner of the cybersecurity world, your resolve to see things through and solve complex problems is vital. This echoes Miss Mango's determined efforts to stretch her little arms skyward, a precursor to her future celebrations in boardrooms, sporting events, and Dave Matthews Band concerts. In the same spirit, it is our personal resolve that motivates us, propelling us through challenging times. In the context of communication, non-technical contributions truly shine. Translating complicated cybersecurity issues into terms that everyone from tech novices to board members can understand is vitally crucial. This resonates with my recent experiences with Miss Mango. In the past few weeks, I have learned to decode her unique 'language' - from eye movements to tongue gestures, from peculiar lip whistles and furrowed brows to her delightful smiles. By understanding these non-verbal cues, I have been able to more quickly respond to her needs, be it feeding or a baby wipe. Versatility, the ability to wear many hats, is invaluable and is not restricted to technical roles alone. Those who excel in this field, regardless of the technical/non-technical divide, are those who can adapt swiftly to new situations and challenges. Miss Mango, with her impressive adaptability, embodies this versatility wonderfully. She embraces each new experience, whether it is feeling the snug warmth of her new jumper or proudly showing off her adorable avocado-themed shoes. Every action of hers teems with an enchanting charm that can only be described as magical. In conclusion, there is a broader need for roles that involve policy creation, incident response coordination, training and awareness, and many others that necessitate an understanding of the cyber landscape but not necessarily deep technical expertise. Data privacy lawyers, cyber policy makers, cyber insurance specialists are just a few examples where law, policy, and business management can intersect with cybersecurity. A cybersecurity career is not confined within the bounds of technical expertise. Similar to fatherhood where every necessary skill is not inherent but developed overtime, in cybersecurity, it is the right mix of technical and non-technical skills, underpinned by the core values of commitment, perseverance, determination, communication, and versatility, that can truly make a difference. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. As a first-time dad, I find myself inspired by the profound joy of my recent venture into fatherhood. Blessed with a daughter I shall affectionately name Miss Mango; I am awe-struck at her brilliant mind and calm demeanor. Life has an intriguing way of presenting us with unique moments to cherish, moments that serve as stepping-stones on our life journey. The importance of pausing to reflect on these recent experiences should not be overlooked - they arm us with life-enhancing lessons, enabling us to navigate life's hurricanes and peaceful harbors alike.
During a recent reflection, I noticed the parallelisms between the whirlwind experience of becoming a first-time parent and hurdling through the intensity of a cybersecurity event or incident. Both roles require an equal measure of preparedness, teamwork, patience, and care. As a cybersecurity professional and first-time dad, I've learned valuable lessons: Patience is crucial in both scenarios. Just as Miss Mango will have her crying bouts requiring calm and gentle support, so does a cybersecurity incident require a measured approach, not swayed by panic. Carefully crafted response strategies must be swiftly actioned in alignment with the risk of the scenario to help prevent further vulnerability. Similarly, in my week as a first-time dad, a rushed decision (like enforcing a strict feeding schedule) may not cater to Miss Mango's unique needs and can lead to vulnerabilities like malnourishment or overfeeding. By carefully observing and understanding Miss Mango's hunger signals, I could create a more balanced and healthy feeding pattern, helping mitigate potential health issues. Bonding plays a critical role in establishing and nurturing crucial relationships. In parenting, it fosters companionship, growth, and developmental milestones. Similarly, team bonding in cybersecurity incident response helps to build trust, more effective communication, and better collaboration. Miss Mango has undoubtedly established herself as a proficient communicator, leaving me continually fascinated with her dynamic range of facial expressions, heart-warming smiles, and consistent upward thrust of her arms. This particular gesture, akin to victory salutes in the world of sports, makes me envision her kicking footballs on the pitch or leading boardroom meetings with the same triumphant fervor. Just as LeBron James had his iconic chalk toss, Dikembe Mutombo his signature finger wag, and Stephen Curry his notable shimmy, so too does Miss Mango exhibit her unique, celebratory style. In her world, her small but mighty hands and arms serve as proof of metaphorically kicked goals and achieved milestones. Self-care cannot be overstated. Amid the pressure in managing cybersecurity threats, prioritizing mental and physical health is paramount. It builds resilience and helps to establish optimal operating conditions. This notion aligns with parenting – prioritizing our wellness helped us to effectively cater to Miss Mango's needs. Support is a cornerstone in both these roles. Just as supporting Miss Mango involves diaper changing, bath time, and emotional encouragement, so does support in a cybersecurity team require assisting colleagues with tasks, ideating together on mitigation strategies in the face of a pressing threat, and fostering a positive team environment. Mistakes are inevitable. Whether it is managing a complex vulnerability or underestimating the amount of baby formula – it happens. The key is not to get lost in self-criticism - the goal should be to learn and build resilience against repeating the same mistakes. Teamwork is another essential element. Parenting is, without question, a team endeavor, as is responding to and recovering from a cybersecurity incident. The team's combined expertise is usually what helps mitigate threats and steer us to safety. In both parenting and cybersecurity, asking for help and advice is not only recommended, it is necessary. Reaching out to more experienced parents, friends, or medical professionals can help us navigate parenthood. Likewise, reaching out to fellow team members or external subject matter resources (SMRs) where appropriate for advice can help resolve events and incidents more effectively. Cherishing every moment is vital. In the rollercoaster journey of parenthood or cybersecurity, it is important to acknowledge and appreciate the high moments that come with resolving a complicated cybersecurity incident, hearing Miss Mango's first coo, or seeing her first smile. Despite the challenges, these moments make the journey truly rewarding and beautiful. Relishing this dual role as a cybersecurity professional nurturing a safe technological environment and a first-time dad nurturing Miss Mango, I am reminded of the common groundwork they share. It is within this comparison that my role in these two different worlds becomes more apparent. The lesson they both echo is - we plan, prepare and always brace for the worst, but we do so with an underlining sense of hope and a promise for a better tomorrow for our loved ones and the organizations we protect. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. |
AuthorElliot is a Senior Manager in the Cybersecurity practice at EY where he enables organizations to build in risk thinking from the onset, enhancing global innovation with confidence. He leads global teams to reduce response times and minimize the impact of security incidents by building and operating mature security, logging, monitoring, alerting, and incident response practices. He successfully led response to and recovery from complex security incidents, such as data exposures, third party compromises, and vulnerability exposures, by coordinating across large enterprises through effective incident response procedures to minimize business impact. Archives
March 2024
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