Discover how supportive communities like Dutch Women in Tech and Women in Cyber are transforming lives, empowering women, and fostering innovation in the tech industry.
You might already be familiar with M365 MVP Femke Cornelissen. Perhaps you’ve encountered her inspiring posts on LinkedIn, seen her speak at a conference, spotted her in a Microsoft 365 commercial, or attended a Dutch Women in Tech or Women in Cyber event. We wanted to delve deeper into her passion for women in technology, understand what fuels her motivation, and learn more about her own journey into tech.
What motivated you to start the Dutch Women in Tech community and co-organize Women in Cyber?
“My motivation to start the Dutch Women in Tech community, and later co-organize Women in Cyber, began with one simple goal: showing people how incredibly exciting, dynamic, and inspiring the tech world can be. Tech is so much more than coding or IT—it’s a world full of innovation, creativity, and impact, and I wanted to share that perspective, especially with women who may not have considered it before.
Soon, I realized there was not only a need to inspire new people to join tech but also a need for a space where women already working in tech could come together—a place to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. That’s when Dutch Women in Tech truly took shape as a community that fosters connection and empowerment.
Women in Cyber was born out of an inspiring conversation with Ilse Para from Microsoft. We discussed the noticeable lack of women working at Microsoft partners and how we could drive real change together. From that, the idea grew to support, train, and inspire women in cybersecurity—a field that has such a significant impact but still lacks diversity.
Both communities thrive thanks to the incredible contributions of many people, including dedicated volunteers, who repeatedly show the power of collaboration and connection. What I love most is seeing how these initiatives help people grow, create new opportunities, and contribute to a more inclusive tech industry.”
Can you tell us about some of the major achievements and milestones of the Dutch Women in Tech and Women in Cyber communities?
“For Dutch Women in Tech, one of the major achievements is creating a thriving community where women in tech roles, regardless of their level or background, feel supported and connected. We’ve hosted countless events, ranging from meetups to large conferences, where women can share knowledge, network, and inspire each other. A standout moment was reaching a milestone of 2,000 active members, proving the community's impact and reach.
Another significant milestone is the visibility we’ve brought to women in tech in the Netherlands. Through partnerships, collaborations, and media features, we’ve shown that tech is a space where women belong, lead, and innovate.
For Women in Cyber, the most notable milestone is the graduation of two cohorts from the Women in Cyber program, which trains women to earn the SC-900 certificate and enter the cybersecurity field with confidence. Seeing these women succeed and take their first steps into cyber roles has been incredibly rewarding.
The restart of Women in Cyber in 2024 was another highlight, with over 60 women attending the first physical session and even more joining online from around the world. This program has not only created opportunities but also sparked broader conversations about the need for diversity in cybersecurity. In the last two years, we’ve had 280 women worldwide participate in our program!
Finally, what makes both communities stand out is the ripple effect they’ve created—inspiring others to start initiatives, fostering new collaborations, and breaking down barriers for women in tech and cybersecurity across the industry.”
What are you hoping to achieve with these communities?
“For Dutch Women in Tech I hope to build a vibrant, inclusive community where women in tech feel supported, inspired, and connected. This is a space to share knowledge, celebrate successes, and learn from challenges. I want to show how exciting, innovative, and impactful the tech industry is and ensure women see their potential and opportunities in this field. Ultimately, the goal is to foster growth, collaboration, and leadership among women in tech, making the industry more diverse and representative.
The Women in Cyber has a more focused ambition which is helping women step confidently into roles in cybersecurity, often without prior work experience. My hope is to provide them with the skills, resources, and encouragement needed to succeed in a field that can feel overwhelming but is full of opportunities. Through programs like the SC-900 certification training and a strong network of support, I want to equip women to take on meaningful roles in cyber and bring fresh perspectives to a critical field that needs diversity and innovation.
Across both communities, the overarching aim is to create lasting change by empowering women to embrace their potential, take bold steps in their careers, and contribute to building a more inclusive and innovative tech and cybersecurity landscape.
My personal goal is complete when one person feels happy and lands in a great role. There is no better feeling than seeing that happen, especially when organizations support us by hiring new women in the field. Together, we change lives!”
How did you begin your journey in the tech industry, and what challenges did you encounter along the way?
My journey in the tech industry began with a passion for creativity and problem-solving, combined with a curiosity about how technology could transform the way we work and live. I didn’t take a traditional path into tech—I started in photography, where I discovered how digital tools and innovation could amplify creativity. That curiosity eventually led me to explore broader opportunities in technology.
As I moved deeper into the tech industry, I met several challenges. One of the first was navigating a field where I often found myself as one of the few women in the room. It wasn’t always easy to feel seen or heard in environments where diversity wasn’t yet a priority.
Another challenge was overcoming self-doubt and learning to trust my abilities in a highly technical and fast-paced industry. Like many, I felt the pressure to "know everything" in a field that’s constantly evolving.
However, these challenges also fueled my determination. They pushed me to build strong networks, seek mentors, and continuously learn. Today, I see these challenges as opportunities—they shaped my perspective, strengthened my resolve, and inspired me to help others overcome similar obstacles. It’s one of the reasons I’m so passionate about initiatives like Dutch Women in Tech and Women in Cyber, ensuring that no one feels alone on their journey into tech.”
What advice would you offer to women who are considering a career in tech or cybersecurity?
“My advice is simple: go for it—the opportunities are endless, and the industry needs your perspective, creativity, and unique strengths.
Here is my top 5 to women considering tech as a career path:
- Be curious and keep learning.
Tech and cybersecurity are constantly evolving fields, and there’s always something new to explore. You don’t have to know everything upfront—start small, follow your interests, and take it step by step. Continuous learning is key to success. - Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
Many roles in tech and cybersecurity can feel intimidating at first, especially if you don’t have a technical background. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and skills can always be learned. Have confidence in your ability to adapt and grow. - Find a network or community.
Connecting with others who share similar goals and experiences can make a huge difference. Join communities like Dutch Women in Tech or Women in Cyber, where you can learn from others, share your journey, and build a strong support system. - Embrace your unique perspective.
Diversity is a strength in tech and cybersecurity. Your background, skills, and way of thinking bring something valuable to the table. Don’t feel like you must fit into a mold, the industry needs different voices and ideas to innovate and succeed. - Celebrate progress, not perfection.
The journey into tech or cybersecurity isn’t always straightforward, and that’s okay. Focus on the steps you’re taking, celebrate small wins, and remember that every experience is a chance to learn and grow.
And, most importantly, believe in yourself. There is a place for you in tech and cybersecurity, and the industry will be better and stronger with your contribution.”
Updated Dec 19, 2024
Version 4.0TinaStenderup
Microsoft
Joined October 30, 2017
Microsoft MVP Program Blog
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