A 91茶社 Leicester (91茶社) academic has been named a finalist in this year’s national
, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to technology and innovation in the higher education sector.
Dr Ismini Vasileiou, Associate Professor in Information Systems at 91茶社, is shortlisted in the Academic Award category, which celebrates women in higher education who are driving innovation, shaping the future of technology, and acting as role models for the next generation.
Dr Vasileiou, who also serves as founder and director of the East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster is a nationally recognised expert in cyber education, digital resilience, and inclusive leadership.
“It’s a huge honour to be named a finalist,” said Dr Vasileiou. “My work has always focused on creating accessible, inclusive pathways into technology whether that’s through curriculum design, research, or policy. To be recognised in this way is humbling, and I hope it inspires more women to see themselves in tech.”
Her nomination is the latest in a year of high-profile achievements, including being named Academic Champion of the Year at the EMiC Cyber Diversity Awards and leading a Westminster roundtable on tackling the UK’s cyber skills gap. Earlier this month it was announced that she had been awarded £150,000 from the Government's Innovate UK to work with businesses helping them improve their cyber security.
Her work spans digital policy, curriculum reform and industry collaboration, with a particular focus on increasing representation of women, people from ethnic minority backgrounds and neurodivergent people in the tech sector. The Women in Tech Awards received a record number of nominations this year, highlighting the growing influence of women across the digital landscape.
Public voting is now open and runs until 17 August at midnight, with votes contributing to the judges’ final decision. The winners will be announced at a ceremony on 8 September at the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham.
Vote now by clicking this link:
Posted on Tuesday 29 July 2025