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Cyber Talent Pilot Successfully Concluded
Ralf Schneider, Allianz Senior Fellow and Head of Cybersecurity and NextGenIT, shares how a new pilot program, developed in partnership with the SANS Institute, is helping reshape how the industry discovers and develops cybersecurity talent.
With over 1,000 applicants and strong early outcomes, the pilot demonstrated a scalable, inclusive model for building cyber workforce resilience across industries and geographies.
Our Commitment to Expanding Access
At SANS Institute, we believe that building a resilient cybersecurity workforce means investing in people from all walks of life. We are proud to support the Global Cyber Talent Academy with a co-funding model that lowers barriers to entry: for every contribution from a sponsor, SANS matches 50% of the program cost.
By focusing on access, opportunity, and skill development, the Academy enables individuals, regardless of background or prior experience, to gain the training and certifications needed to enter and thrive in the cybersecurity profession. Learn more about our mission-driven work in our latest Impact Report.
Sponsors
Program Tracks
International
In collaboration with Charter of Trust, Allianz, CyberPeace Institute and metafinanz, this track recruits students from disadvantaged communities worldwide, with focus informed by fundraising outcomes and partner priorities.
Neurodiversity
Developed with metafinanz’s Mind the Gap initiative, this track supports neurodiverse learners through specialised pathways and expert coaching.
Courses Offered
The program includes a curated selection of SANS courses designed to build both technical and communication skills essential for a successful cybersecurity career. A focus on mentoring will be embedded throughout the program to ensure workplace readiness for participants.
Why join our community?
The Cyber Talent Academy is more than a talent pipeline, it is a strategic investment in our collective cyber resilience. In the face of today’s evolving threats, it builds a strong, enduring line of defence around what we value most as Corporate Social Responsibility in action, driving meaningful impact for both our businesses and the communities we serve.
Industry-Recognised Training
Learn from the SANS Institute, the world’s leading cybersecurity training provider, with a curriculum that includes AI, threat detection, and incident response.
Global Certification Pathways
Earn GIAC certifications that validate your skills and open doors to employment worldwide.
Real-World Experience
Develop hands-on expertise through immersive labs, simulations, and direct mentoring from cybersecurity professionals.
Tailored Support
Join a mission-driven learning community that offers coaching, peer networking, mentoring and career preparation throughout the program.
Here's what our graduates have to say
For Lucide Pascale, a graduate from Rwanda, the Academy helped shape her career path: “With the skills I have learned, I am able to protect IT systems from hackers, something that I have learned to love and therefore would like to make it my profession. With all that I have learned, I can empower and inspire other young women who want to enter the field of cybersecurity.”
Previous Graduates
