2 minute read
FROM THE PUBLISHER
Are we there yet?
Are we there yet? It’s a question we’ve all asked, on road trips, in meetings and, perhaps most importantly, on the journey toward equality and inclusivity in security. For Issue 26 of Women in Security Magazine we invite you to join us in exploring this question, not as a marker of impatience, but as a catalyst for honest reflection and meaningful progress.
Our theme, “Are we there yet?” to me screams out “One conversation at a time,” a reaction rooted in my deep belief that real change happens through dialogue. In the security industry every conversation matters. Each story shared, each perspective heard and each challenge to the status quo brings us closer to a world where everyone, regardless of gender, background or neurodiversity, can thrive.
Why do I believe one conversation at a time will change the world, especially in security? Because meaningful dialogue is the foundation of transformation, trust and progress in a field that depends on collaboration and adaptability. Security is about more than technology or protocols: it’s about people. When we talk openly, we break down barriers, build understanding and create space for innovation and growth.
One conversation at a time is also how we challenge outdated perceptions and awaken minds. It’s how we create a culture where gender equality and inclusivity are not just ideals but everyday realities. When we share our journeys of success, failure and resilience we inspire others to speak up, to listen and to act. This ripple effect, set in motion by a single honest exchange, has the power to reshape teams, organisations and the industry as a whole.
Transformation, in security as in life, rarely happens overnight. But with every conversation we move a step closer to a safer, more equitable and more innovative future. That’s why I am convinced: one conversation at a time, we really can change the world.
Inside These Pages
In this issue you’ll find voices and stories that illuminate the power of conversation.
• Neurodiversity at work: discover the unique strengths neurodiverse professionals bring to our field, and how inclusive conversations can unlock their full potential.
• Recovering from burnout: through candid storytelling we explore the realities of burnout and the pathways to resilience, reminding us that vulnerability is a strength.
• Challenging perceptions, awakening minds: our contributors dissect stereotypes and outdated norms, urging us to keep questioning, keep learning and keep growing.
• Journeys of success, failure and resilience: we celebrate women who have navigated winding roads marked by both triumphs and setbacks-and whose stories inspire perseverance.
• Gender equality: the pursuit of equality is an ongoing journey. We examine how each conversation, no matter how small, chips away at the barriers that remain.
Every conversation that questions the status quo or highlights a different journey, whether about recovering from burnout, thriving as a neurodivergent professional or redefining leadership, helps to shift mindsets. These dialogues are the seeds of change, encouraging teams and organisations to design
Abigail Swabey more inclusive policies, support one another and create environments where everyone feels valued and empowered.
By awakening minds we challenge outdated perceptions and inspire a culture of continuous learning and respect. This is how the security industry will evolve: one honest, courageous conversation at a time.
As you read I encourage you to reflect on your own journey. Where have your conversations taken you? Who has inspired you to think differently, to act bravely or to keep going when the road felt long?
We may not be ‘there’ yet, but with every honest conversation we move closer. Let’s keep talking, keep listening and keep changing the world, one conversation at a time.
Abigail Swabey
PUBLISHER, and CEO of Source2Create www.linkedin.com/in/abigail-swabey-95145312 aby@source2create.com.au
