The founder of East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster has been named a finalist in this year’s national Women in Tech Awards.

Dr Ismini Vasileiou has been shortlisted in recognition of her outstanding contribution to technology and innovation in the higher education sector.

Dr Vasileiou, Associate Professor in Information Systems at De Montfort University Leicester, is shortlisted in the Academic Award category, which celebrates women in higher education who are driving innovation, shaping the future of technology, and acting as role models for the next generation.

Dr Vasileiou, who also serves as Co-Director of UKC3, is a nationally recognised expert in cyber education, digital resilience, and inclusive leadership.

“It’s a huge honour to be named a finalist,” said Dr Vasileiou.

“My work has always focused on creating accessible, inclusive pathways into technology whether that’s through curriculum design, research, or policy. To be recognised in this way is humbling, and I hope it inspires more women to see themselves in tech.”

Her nomination is the latest in a year of high-profile achievements, including being named Academic Champion of the Year at the EMiC Cyber Diversity Awards and leading a Westminster roundtable on tackling the UK’s cyber skills gap.

Dr Vasileiou’s work spans digital policy, curriculum reform and industry collaboration, with a particular focus on increasing representation of women, people from ethnic minority backgrounds and neurodivergent individuals in the tech sector.

The Women in Tech Awards received a record number of nominations this year, highlighting the growing influence of women across the digital landscape.

Public voting is now open and runs until 17 August 2025 at midnight, with votes contributing to the judges’ final decision.

You can vote now here.

Winners will be announced at a ceremony on 8 September 2025 at the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham.