Nataliya Tkachuk: Investing in Youth Today to Build a Strong, Secure and Technologically Advanced Ukraine

Nataliya Tkachuk, Head of the Information Security and Cybersecurity Service of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine (NSDC) and Secretary of the National Cybersecurity Coordination Center (NCCC), met with students specializing in cybersecurity as part of the SheCyber Hub initiative launched by the Women’s Leadership and Strategic Initiatives Foundation (WLSIF).

During the meeting, participants discussed current challenges in national cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of leadership and professional development for young specialists. Nataliya Tkachuk shared her expertise and underlined the necessity of a strategic approach to strengthening the state’s cyber resilience.

“By investing in youth today, we are laying the foundation for a strong, secure, and technologically advanced Ukraine. The young generation will shape the future of cybersecurity, make strategic decisions, and develop the digital landscape. Ukrainian youth possess exceptional intellectual potential, talent, ambition, and determination. They have already demonstrated their readiness to uphold national values, assume responsibility, and drive meaningful change. Our task is to support this potential, provide knowledge, create opportunities for professional growth, and serve as a reliable partner in their development. That is why the NCCC actively supports such initiatives and calls on other institutions to engage,” emphasized Nataliya Tkachuk.

The discussion addressed not only the technological aspects of cybersecurity but also the leadership qualities essential for success—strategic decision-making, resilience in the face of challenges, and the ability to advance even in the most demanding circumstances. Students explored career prospects in cybersecurity, professional development pathways, and the core competencies required for excellence in the field.

Particular attention was given to Ukraine’s role in establishing new cybersecurity standards that are setting a precedent globally, as well as to the risks and opportunities associated with artificial intelligence in the context of national security.

SheCyber Hub serves as a platform connecting female leaders in cybersecurity with students, fostering an environment for open dialogue, knowledge exchange, and professional growth. As part of this initiative, monthly meetings provide students with practical insights, expert guidance, and mentorship from leading professionals shaping the future of Ukraine’s cybersecurity sector.

To participate in the following events, students can register using the link:   bit.ly/3WYhEHY