Srija Reddy Allam, Cloud Security Architect at Fortinet, shares her experiences, challenges, and achievements as a woman in the cybersecurity industry. She discusses the defining moments of her career, the obstacles she has overcome, and her advice for young women looking to enter the field. She passionately speaks about the need for more women in leadership roles, the power of a supportive professional network, and the impact of women empowering each other. Her reflections on gender equality and personal inspirations - especially the influence of her mother - tell us a true story of perseverance and success...

‍

What has been your career-defining moment as a woman in business?

I would say my personal career-defining moments, both professionally and personally, are always when I accomplish real customer success. It could be something from today, where I’m more on the pre-sales side, or even from my previous job.

One example that stands out is from my old job, where I was the only woman on the network engineering team. I had been assigned a task to automate network security within a year to help my team work more efficiently. But I completed it in just four months! That was a huge moment for me because it proved to myself and others that I could take on a big challenge and deliver results far ahead of expectations.

"I am capable and reliable"

Even now at Fortinet, I’ve taken on large customer POCs, led those projects to success, and had similar defining moments. Each of these experiences reinforced my ability to deliver impactful solutions under pressure - both professionally and personally. They solidified my reputation and reminded me that I am capable and reliable, whether in a technical role or handling pressure in general.

Out of all the career-defining moments I’ve had, the ones that stand out the most are when I successfully complete a project ahead of schedule and prove to myself that I can do it. Those moments have always been the most meaningful.

Were there any obstacles you had to overcome as a woman in business?

I often find myself as the only woman on calls or in a room full of men, which has definitely presented significant challenges. Developing thick skin has been essential. That has been one of my biggest obstacles - maintaining professionalism, not taking biases or stereotypes personally, and learning to assert myself with confidence.

A big part of that came from thorough preparation before meetings and taking the first step to speak up. Earning respect takes time, but building strong professional relationships, with mentors, friends, and allies, has provided invaluable support and guidance along the way.

There have been moments when I felt overlooked or underestimated because of my gender, and those experiences were always obstacles. But through preparation, confidence, and professionalism, I’ve been able to overcome them. And looking back, I can see how these challenges have played a huge role in my growth.

What advice would you give to a younger woman looking to join your industry?

Be resilient and confident in your abilities. Cybersecurity is a challenging field, but it’s also incredibly rewarding, with so many opportunities for growth and impact.

"Stay curious and continuously learn"

Stay curious and continuously learn about the latest trends and technologies. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to take on challenging projects that push you out of your comfort zone - those experiences are what truly shape your professional development.

Lastly, building a strong professional network is key. Engage actively through cybersecurity conferences, social media, and other platforms.

"As women we bring unique perspectives and skills that are incredibly valuable."

"With determination, you can make a meaningful impact."

And remember, as women, we bring unique perspectives and skills that are incredibly valuable. With determination, you can make a meaningful impact - not just in cybersecurity, but in any industry.

If you could do one thing to accelerate the pace of change for gender equality, what would it be?

If I had the power to speed up gender equality, the one thing I would focus on is getting more women into leadership roles. Equal representation in leadership and development programs is so important.

"Give women the experience and visibility they need to advance"

We need to ensure that women have the same access to high-impact projects, leadership training, and mentorship opportunities as men. Creating that level playing field would help break down barriers and give women the experience and visibility they need to advance.

So yes, I want to see a lot more women in leadership - because that’s how real change happens.

What compelled you to attend a Panelle event?

It offers a unique opportunity to learn from other accomplished women in the industry. There is a chance to grow together and learn from their experiences, insights, and accomplishments. And, the chance to grow together with peers who are like-minded and navigating through similar challenges is very incredibly inspiring.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

The advice I would give my younger self is to believe in myself and have more confidence in my abilities. The potential was always there - I just needed to trust my instincts and have faith in my ability to face challenges and overcome doubts.

"Mistakes and setbacks are a natural part of any learning process"

Mistakes and setbacks are a natural part of any learning process, both professionally and personally. They help you grow.

So even if you’re unsure or not feeling confident, step out of your comfort zone and take the risk. In the end, it will be worth it - you’ll grow, learn, and be rewarded in ways you never expected.

Why do you think it’s important for women to help other women win?

I believe it's essential for women to support other women because building a strong, supportive community leads to collective success and real progress - especially when it comes to gender equality.

"Always support and uplift each other. It makes all the difference."

When women have each other’s backs, we create a network of allies. We mentor one another, share opportunities, offer guidance through challenges, and build lasting friendships.

This support system doesn’t just help break down barriers - it fosters a sense of belonging, community, and empowerment.

So yes, always support and uplift each other. It makes all the difference.

Finally, please put the spotlight on another woman in business who either inspires you or has pulled out the seat for you.

For me, it's my mom - she has always been my biggest inspiration and support throughout my career. She’s a working woman too, though in a different field - she’s a school principal.

She was my first teacher at home, and she’s constantly shown me what leadership, dedication, and resilience look like. Not only has she been an incredible mother, but she’s also balanced her professional role with confidence, leading a school, working with male colleagues, and handling challenges with grace.

She has always encouraged me to believe in myself, pursue my ambitions, and never back down from challenges. There are countless ways she has inspired me, and she continues to do so every day.

‍

‍

‍

‍