Bridging Cultures and Cybersecurity – A Conversation with Maryam Shoraka

Podcast: Cyber Mindsz
Host: Mark Williams
Guest: Maryam Shoraka
Episode Title: Bridging Cultures and Cybersecurity – A Conversation with Maryam Shoraka 

🔗 Links Mentioned Throughout the Podcast 

• 🌐 Quigly Website - https://www.quigly.com.au/ 
• 📖 Rebel Ideas by Matthew Syed - https://www.matthewsyed.co.uk/book/rebel-ideas-the-power-of-diverse-thinking/ 
• 👩‍💻 AWSN – Australian Women in Security Network - https://www.awsn.org.au/ 
• 👤 Mark Williams – Host LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/markwilliamsmelbourne/ 
• 👤 Maryam Shoraka – Guest LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryamshoraka/  

👩‍💼 Guest Biography – Maryam Shoraka 

Maryam is Head of Cybersecurity Operations (at a government agency) and a seasoned security executive with extensive experience building world-class 24/7 security operations centres. She specialises in drafting high-value cyber resilience strategies and leading organisations to swift recovery from high-impact cyber breaches. A staunch diversity advocate, Maryam is actively engaged in initiatives to accelerate women into cybersecurity and leadership positions, and has been nominated for several industry awards for her exemplary leadership.  

🗓️ Episode Overview: 

In this episode, host Mark sits down with Marianne to discuss her unconventional path into cybersecurity, her leadership philosophy, and the power of mentorship. From growing up in Iran and dealing with cyber threats firsthand to becoming a vocal advocate for diversity in tech, Marianne’s story is both inspiring and packed with practical wisdom. 

⏱️ Timestamps & Topics: 

• 00:08 – Welcome Message 
• 00:50 – Introduction of Maryam Shoraka 
• 03:37 – Marianne’s early exposure to cyber threats in Iran 
• 06:05 – Her shift from teaching to tech, and the impact of relocation 
• 13:21 – Challenges faced as a migrant and woman in cyber 
• 14:32 – Building confidence, from self-doubt to security leadership 
• 16:45 – Iranian culture and cybersecurity talent 
• 17:37 – Advocacy for women in cyber 
• 20:50 – Cyber crisis management: walking it off 
• 22:44 – Common misconceptions about cybersecurity professionals 
• 24:23 – Security vs. speed: finding the balance 
• 25:43 – Leadership superpowers in cybersecurity 
• 28:40 – Mentoring the next gen of cyber leaders 
• 31:31 – Her #1 non-negotiable: Multi-factor Authentication 
• 33:43 – Worst cybersecurity advice ever received 
• 35:44 – Future of cybersecurity leadership 
• 36:59 – Final advice: Why people matter most