Public Announcement - Integrity, Safety, & Trust

To our friends, colleagues, and the greater cybersecurity community,

We are thrilled to announce the establishment of ISSA SoCal, a new chapter dedicated to fostering a dynamic network of cybersecurity professionals across Southern California.

Understandably, many have inquired about the formation of this chapter and the potential duplication of efforts with other chapters or organizations. Southern California is indeed fortunate to have many cybersecurity groups representing diverse domains through various local chapters. However, we saw an opportunity to create a uniquely inviting and safe environment for women and diverse practitioners while fostering collaboration across organizations. Our vision is to establish a cybersecurity community in Southern California that truly reflects the diversity and vibrancy of our world today.

Moreover, as active members of many of these organizations, we’ve faced challenges in participating in all the available events and gatherings—both virtual and in-person. We see opportunities for joint meetings, cross-chapter or cross-organization collaboration, and sharing lessons and experiences from community leaders with a broader audience.

With encouragement and guidance from community leaders and support from ISSA International, we believe the best path forward is to launch this new chapter without unnecessary constraints.

Join Our Community

Empower your growth in cybersecurity. Connect, learn, and share with diverse professionals committed to an inclusive future.

Join Our Chapter Today!

Existing Members: Update your primary ISSA.org chapter

 

What Makes ISSA SoCal Different?

What sets ISSA SoCal apart is our unwavering belief that our methods are as significant as the outcomes we aim to achieve. Our mission is not simply to establish another organization—it is to build a united community with a clear purpose.

We are dedicated to creating an environment where every member feels welcome and safe sharing their ideas, perspectives, and experiences. This commitment goes beyond professional development; it encompasses fostering a community that supports, educates, and uplifts its members.

We aspire to create a space that upholds the highest integrity, safety, and trust standards.

Our Vision and Mission

At ISSA SoCal, we are committed to turning words into meaningful actions that benefit the larger community.

Our dynamic team brings a fresh perspective and embodies the spirit of “We Are Stronger Together.” We are committed to building upon the core values that unite cybersecurity practitioners, leaders, and suppliers while sharing hard lessons and crowdsourcing solutions.

In Southern California, we are shaping our chapter around the following core values, which we hold dear and believe reflect the community we serve:

  • Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of honesty and professionalism.
  • Respect: Fostering a culture where diversity is celebrated and all voices are heard.
  • Accountability: Ensuring ethical behavior and transparency at every level of leadership.
  • Safety: Creating a welcoming environment free from harassment, intimidation, or retaliation, with a one-drink limit and ample non-caffeinated options.

Above all, we believe in enjoying the journey while getting things done. We’re committed to creating spaces where professional growth occurs in fun, creative, and meaningful ways. We know that when this happens, personal transformations are the most powerful.

Our ultimate goal is to build a thriving network of cybersecurity practitioners who collaborate, learn, and innovate together in a healthy, inclusive environment.

A Call to Action

We invite all cybersecurity professionals and enthusiasts to join us in this new chapter. Together, we can build a stronger, truly supportive community that reflects the best of what our industry has to offer and, more importantly, who we are as individuals.

We value relationships above profit, integrity above all, and accountability with transparency. If you’re ready to be part of a group that champions integrity, promotes inclusivity, and prioritizes safety, we welcome you to ISSA SoCal.

Let’s move forward together—creating a community that uplifts, inspires, and supports every member. Thank you for standing with us as we make this vision a reality.

Warm regards,

The ISSA SoCal Board of Directors