An exclusive interview with Shahzad Subhani, Founder of GISPP
In today’s digital age, the realm of cybersecurity emerges as a critical fortress safeguarding the sanctity of information, privacy, and the seamless operation of our increasingly interconnected world. Amid the ever-evolving digital landscape, fraught with sophisticated cyber threats and vulnerabilities, the need for vigilant cybersecurity measures has never been more paramount. It is within this complex and dynamic environment that communities of cybersecurity professionals play an indispensable role. These communities, bound by a shared commitment to protect and innovate, serve as the lifeblood of the cybersecurity ecosystem, fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the advancement of security practices across the globe.
Within this context of collective endeavor and digital stewardship, the story of Shahzad Subhani and the Global Information Security Society for Professionals of Pakistan (GISPP) stands out as a beacon of inspiration and unity. Originating from modest beginnings in Sadiqabad, a small city in Pakistan, Shahzad embarked on a mission fueled by a deep-seated passion for cybersecurity and an ambitious vision to bridge the gap between cybersecurity professionals across the world. This vision was not just about confronting cyber threats but about creating a vibrant, supportive network that transcends geographical boundaries, bringing together experts and enthusiasts alike to share insights, experiences, and opportunities in the field of cybersecurity. The formation of GISPP under Shahzad Subhani’s guidance is a testament to the transformative power of the community in the cybersecurity domain. It symbolizes a journey from isolation to global connectivity, highlighting the profound impact that a united group of professionals can have on the industry at large. GISPP’s emergence as a global platform for Pakistani cybersecurity professionals around the world reflects the changing dynamics of the cybersecurity field, where collaboration and collective intelligence have become key drivers of innovation and security.
The Power of Community
In the domain of cybersecurity, the essence of community is not merely a concept but a cornerstone for innovation, support, and professional growth. The inception and evolution of the Global Information Security Society for Professionals of Pakistan (GISPP) epitomizes the transformative power of a unified community of cybersecurity professionals. Shahzad Subhani, the visionary founder of GISPP, embarked on a journey to create a platform that transcends geographical barriers, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual growth among Pakistani cybersecurity experts worldwide.
Shahzad Subhani reminisces about the early days, emphasizing the humble beginnings and the vision that propelled the initiative forward. “We started with 20-25 People using one Global Group with members from different countries and once this group reached 100, we started other Countries Chapters and from there the journey started,” he recalls, highlighting the organic growth of the community. This expansion was not just in numbers but in the depth of engagement and the scope of activities that the community undertook. The vision was clear from the outset: to bring together Pakistani cybersecurity professionals under one umbrella, creating a vibrant ecosystem of knowledge sharing and support. The significance of GISPP’s community extends beyond mere networking. Subhani points out the profound impact of collaboration and knowledge sharing within this network. “The initial purpose was to bring people together…we wanted to break the ice. So we started with small meetups, fewer meetups for amateurs, and then people started discussions in that group,” he elucidates. This initiative was not just about connecting individuals; it was about fostering a culture where professionals could share their experiences, challenges, and insights, thereby collectively advancing in their field.
Furthermore, Subhani sheds light on how GISPP has served as a platform for professional development and career advancement. He proudly mentions, “I have had members who were working in Lahore and then they moved to UAE or they moved to Australia, and they’re still part of our group.” This statement underscores the enduring bonds and the career trajectories that have been positively impacted by GISPP’s existence. The community does not just facilitate networking; it plays a pivotal role in the professional journeys of its members, guiding and supporting them through transitions and new opportunities. The power of community, as demonstrated by GISPP, is a testament to the collective strength of cybersecurity professionals. Through shared goals, mutual support, and the continuous exchange of knowledge, GISPP exemplifies how a community can drive not only the professional development of individuals but also contribute significantly to the broader field of cybersecurity. In the words of Shahzad Subhani, GISPP’s journey from a small group to a global network is a story of unity, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the cybersecurity domain.
Beyond Borders – Opportunities in the Middle East
The digital era has ushered in unprecedented opportunities for cybersecurity professionals, especially in regions ripe with technological advancement and infrastructural development such as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which is a regional, intergovernmental, political, and economic union comprising Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Shahzad Subhani, through his pioneering work with GISPP, has illuminated the path for Pakistani technology and cybersecurity companies eyeing these lucrative markets.
Shahzad Subhani’s insights into the landscape of opportunities in the KSA and GCC countries are both profound and pragmatic. He identifies the GCC, and particularly the KSA, as fertile grounds for cybersecurity endeavors. “To be honest there’s a lot of potential I will say in both GCC and Saudi…The GCC’s most active market is Saudi Arabia,” Subhani states, acknowledging the competitive but promising nature of these markets. His analysis underlines the strategic importance of the KSA, not just as a market, but as a gateway to broader regional opportunities.
The unique advantage that Pakistani companies have in these regions, according to Subhani, stems from a blend of cultural, regulatory, and business environmental factors. “But KSA still is a better place even to be honest. Many Pakistanis want to come to KSA because of religious reasons, so they become close to Mecca and Medina,” he reflects, highlighting the cultural affinity that can serve as a leverage point for Pakistani entities. This deep-rooted connection can facilitate smoother transitions and establish stronger business ties in the KSA.
The visionary founder of GISPP, through his engagements and observations, offers a roadmap for Pakistani technology and cybersecurity companies to navigate and capitalize on the opportunities in the KSA and GCC. His advice encapsulates a blend of market understanding, cultural insights, and regulatory awareness, providing an overview for companies looking to expand their footprint in these regions. Subhani’s narrative not only highlights the potential for growth and collaboration but also underscores the strategic importance of adapting to the unique demands and opportunities presented by the KSA and GCC markets in the realm of cybersecurity.
The Future is Now – Trends in Cybersecurity
As the digital landscape evolves, so too do the trends and technologies that shape the field of cybersecurity. Speaking to CISO Magazine, Shahzad Subhani shares keen insights into the future directions of cybersecurity, identifying emerging trends that are set to redefine the industry. His perspective offers a valuable foresight into the technological advancements and strategic imperatives that will drive cybersecurity in the years to come.
Subhani highlights the critical role of compliance and cloud security in the future of cybersecurity. He observes that Cybersecurity is very much growing, with the most focused sector being the compliance market. This emphasis on compliance underscores the growing importance of adhering to regulatory standards and frameworks, a trend that is becoming increasingly paramount in a world where data breaches and cyber threats are on the rise.
In addition to compliance, Subhani points to the burgeoning field of cyber threat intelligence as a significant trend, suggesting that the ability to proactively identify and mitigate cyber threats through intelligence gathering will be a critical competency for cybersecurity professionals. This forward-looking approach to cybersecurity highlights the shift towards preemptive measures and strategic analysis in combating cyber threats.
Subhani also addresses the impact of technological advancements on cybersecurity, specifically the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into cybersecurity practices. “Slowly, not now But it will come” he notes, indicating that AI’s role in cybersecurity will grow as the technology matures and becomes more integrated into security protocols. The potential for AI to revolutionize cybersecurity lies in its ability to process vast amounts of data and identify patterns and anomalies that may signify cyber threats. Furthermore, Subhani underscores the significance of data protection and privacy, particularly in the context of the increasing volume of data generated and stored by organizations. “Data protection and the privacy of data, both are very important,” he remarks. This focus on data protection and privacy reflects the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, where safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring user privacy are paramount concerns. Through his insights, Shahzad Subhani paints a picture of a future where cybersecurity is characterized by a blend of compliance, advanced threat intelligence, the integration of AI technologies, and a heightened focus on data protection and privacy. These trends, as identified by Subhani, not only highlight the direction in which the cybersecurity industry is headed but also underscore the importance of staying ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving digital world.
Pathways to Excellence – Skills and Career Development
The rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for professionals navigating their career paths in this dynamic field. Shahzad Subhani, the founder of the Global Information Security Society for Professionals of Pakistan, offers invaluable advice and insights into skills development and the importance of certification in achieving career excellence in cybersecurity. His guidance underscores the necessity of continuous learning and adaptability in a profession characterized by relentless technological advancements and shifting threat landscapes.
Highlighting the critical nature of skills development in cybersecurity, Subhani emphasizes the diversity of domains within the field that professionals can explore. “Cybersecurity has many domains to be honest, so they can look at any domain” he advises, pointing out the broad spectrum of specializations available, from governance and compliance to threat intelligence and incident response. This approach encourages professionals to pursue areas that align with their interests and career aspirations, underscoring the field’s multidisciplinary nature.
In terms of certification, Subhani acknowledges its significant role in professional development, particularly in validating expertise and facilitating career advancement. “If they want to go to cloud security they can learn the CCSP,” he suggests, highlighting specific certifications like CCSP (Certified Cloud Security Professional) that are highly regarded within the industry. These certifications not only enhance a professional’s credentials but also provide a structured learning path to acquiring in-demand skills.
Moreover, Subhani stresses the importance of leveraging online resources and platforms for self-education and skill enhancement. He mentions the free courses available on the internet as well as GISPP YouTube Channel GISPP Academy (https://www.youtube.com/c/GISPPACADEMY), citing how people have actually benefited from these courses, further illustrating the accessibility of quality education and training through digital means. This democratization of learning resources enables professionals to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in cybersecurity, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and lifelong learning. Subhani’s perspective on skills and career development in cybersecurity is both pragmatic and forward-looking. He recognizes the challenges posed by the talent gap and the rapid pace of technological change but remains optimistic about the opportunities for growth and advancement within the field.
By advocating for specialization, certification, and self-directed learning, Subhani not only outlines a roadmap for professionals seeking to excel in cybersecurity but also highlights the essential qualities of adaptability, curiosity, and resilience that define success in this ever-changing domain.
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