Her Story
About Kanishka
I am a cybersecurity and communications professional with a strong background in research, event strategy, and information security, currently serving as VP Events and Communications Lead for the University of Washington Bothell chapter of the ThinkCyber Foundation, a role I have held since March 2026, where I oversee how the chapter presents itself to students and the broader campus community, leading the communication strategy across event promotion, student-facing messaging, visibility campaigns, and post-event storytelling to ensure every initiative aligns with ThinkCyber's branding and mission.
I also serve as a Research Assistant at the University of Washington, a role I have held since September 2025, where I support interdisciplinary research at the intersection of cybersecurity, privacy, and human behavior, assisting with qualitative and quantitative data analysis, contributing to literature reviews, collaborating on research dissemination materials, and providing operational support. I served as Security and Privacy Architect at NailedIT Labs on an internship basis for four months, and as a Freelance consultant at The Next Consultants for over a year, where I conducted information security audits and implemented security protocols to protect client information.
I also volunteered as a Clinical Assistant at Seattle Humane for eight months, where I provided aid in all activities involved in maintaining the functioning of the Vet Clinic, developed strong skills in animal handling and medical experience, and contributed to the mission of promoting animal welfare and adoption.
Across my career in cybersecurity, research, and community engagement, my work has been driven by a commitment to security, education, and service. Whether I am leading communications for a cybersecurity organization, conducting research on privacy and human behavior, or volunteering in animal welfare, I bring a strategic, detail-oriented, and purpose-driven approach that has made a lasting impact on the organizations and communities I serve. I am proud of the work I have done throughout my career and excited to continue advancing cybersecurity education, research, and community engagement.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kanishka
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of curiosity, discipline, and a deep commitment to service. Throughout my career in cybersecurity, research, and community engagement, I’ve consistently sought opportunities to learn, contribute, and uplift others. Mentorship, supportive communities, and the willingness to take on challenging roles have shaped my growth and helped me make meaningful impact.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My mother has always reminded me to stay open to opportunities because life rarely unfolds exactly the way we plan it. What we think we want may not be what we are ultimately meant for. Her advice taught me to be adaptable, curious, and willing to explore paths I never initially imagined. Being opportunistic—in the positive sense—has allowed me to grow, pivot, and discover strengths I didn’t know I had.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Patience, Persistence, and Perseverance are the three qualities that will carry you through any challenge in cybersecurity. This field evolves quickly, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or behind. But progress comes from showing up consistently, learning steadily, and refusing to give up when things get difficult. Every skill takes time to build, every breakthrough comes after effort, and every expert was once a beginner. Trust the process and trust yourself.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
AI today is both the challenge and the solution. The key is to treat AI as a tool or even as another collaborator that exists to support human capability, not replace it. When used responsibly, AI can accelerate innovation, strengthen defenses, and open new possibilities in cybersecurity. But like any powerful tool, it must be used thoughtfully and ethically. Don’t fear it, don’t misuse it- learn from it, work with it, and let it expand your creativity and impact in the field.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Respect- for yourself and for others- is the foundation of how I live and work. Respect shapes how we communicate, how we collaborate, and how we show up for the people around us. It keeps us grounded, empathetic, and aligned with our principles. Whether in personal relationships or professional environments, I believe respect is what builds trust, strengthens teams, and creates meaningful, lasting impact.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.