“Programs like Her CyberTracks bring training to people who may not always have access to it, build community, showcase local talent, and help us think of solutions from a regional perspective”, says Her CyberTracks participant Gabriela Hernández in her interview with LAC4 ahead of the Her CyberTracks Programme training in October in Santo Domingo. With over four years of experience as a fullstack developer, Gabriela highlights the importance of accessible training and regional collaboration to tackle evolving digital threats in Latin America. 

You applied to the program a while ago – what caught your attention and what drove you to sending your application? 

I’ve been interested in the world of cybersecurity for some time now, not only for the technical aspects but also for the impact it has on everyday life and the protection of digital rights. When I learned about the Her CyberTracks program, I thought it was an excellent opportunity and a great way to continue learning. 

Her CyberTracks program is more than half way through since its start in April, and we are going to meet soon in Santo Domingo for in-person training. How has it been so far? 

The experience has been very positive. The content is very clear and engaging. I’m looking forward to participating in the in-person session in Santo Domingo and deepening my knowledge.

Given your background, what do you think are the greatest challenges in cybersecurity right now? What do you see in your daily work? 

One of the main challenges is the increasing sophistication of attacks, along with a general lack of awareness of good digital practices.

Drawing from your experience, how international organisations like the EU and ITU or initiatives like LAC4 Centre could help to address these challenges? 

I think one of the most effective ways to support is precisely through programs like Her CyberTracks. These types of initiatives bring training to people who may not always have access to it, and allow them to develop specific skills in a key area like cybersecurity. They also build community, showcase local talent, and help us think of solutions from a regional perspective. For me, participating in these workshops is already a huge help and a clear example of how these types of organizations can make a difference. 

About Gabriela Hernández

I’m a curious, multifaceted person, always ready to take on new challenges. I’m passionate about learning, stepping out of my comfort zone, and growing both personally and professionally. One of my greatest interests is sports, especially running, an activity that connects me with myself, helps me stay focused, and push my limits.

 

Professionally, I work as a full-stack developer with over four years of experience. Throughout my career, I’ve explored different paths, which has allowed me to develop a diverse and flexible perspective. This same openness led me to take a deep interest in the world of cybersecurity, an area that combines many of the values that motivate me: critical thinking, protecting the collective, and continuous learning.

Her CyberTracks is funded by the Federal Foreign Office of Germany  and the European Union and co-implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), in partnership with the Global Programme on Cybercrime of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for the Criminal Justice CyberTrack and the Latin America and Caribbean Cyber Competence Centre (LAC4) for the LAC region. Read more about the program.