053. Hacking Opportunity with Tennisha Martin, Founder and Executive Director of BlackGirlsHack

In this episode of #CyberChats, we’re joined by Tennisha Martin, Founder and Executive Director of BlackGirlsHack, a nonprofit that's opening pathways into cybersecurity for Black women and girls across the country. With a background in electrical and computer engineering from Carnegie Mellon and over 15 years of experience in government consulting, Tennisha brings both technical expertise and a deep commitment to equity in tech.

She shares what inspired her to create BlackGirlsHack, how the organization is helping to bridge access gaps, and why building diverse cyber talent pipelines is critical to the future of the field. We also explore her work as a mentor, ethical hacking advocate, and educator — and why representation matters from entry-level to the executive suite.

Whether you're breaking into cyber, mentoring others, or rethinking what inclusive leadership looks like, this conversation offers practical insight and powerful inspiration.

Topics discussed: cybersecurity education, cybersecurity, diversity, opportunity, cyber kids, cyber careers

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