Cyber Security for Small Business Entrepreneurs

The objective of this workshop is to create a comfortable environment for women in southern Alberta to learn about and implement basic cyber security practices within their daily routines while running a successful small business.

The key for success in this workshop is communication and interactivity, therefore the workshops are designed to stimulate discussions and conversations about the struggles women business owners face in their small businesses, specifically due to online security.

Workshop Dates:

• Tuesday, March 1 (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

Introduction & Key Concepts:

– Understand cyber security and how it impacts small businesses

• Tuesday, March 8 (7:00 PM – 8:30 PM)

Learning to Protect:

– Describe the most common cyber security attacks

• Tuesday, March 15 (7:00 PM – 8:30 PM)

Implementing Safe Practices:

– Differentiate between safe and unsafe cyber security practices within your own business

• Tuesday, March 22 (7:00 PM – 8:30 PM)

Individual Exercise and Wrap-Up:

– Assemble a cyber security plan to implement cyber security practices within your own business

WIN A WESTEM SWAG BOX!

For each session attended, participants will get one entry into a draw to win a WESTEM SWAG box! Draw will take place during the last session (March 22).

Meet Your Presenter: Ayesha Siddiqui

Ayesha Siddiqui is a woman in STEM who is currently pursuing a Master’s in Digital Transformation and Innovation through University of Ottawa. She also has an undergraduate degree from the University of Lethbridge’s Dhillon School of Business.

She collaborates with various professionals in technical roles and is committed to showcasing the main concepts of online security in an interesting and simple manner to benefit all Canadian citizens. She brings the business and technology expertise suited to lead discussions for small businesses excelling online. Ayesha is actively developing experience in digital innovation, cyber security, education, project management, and is always committed to advancing diversity and inclusivity.

IMPORTANT: Please note these are live events that will be delivered during the dates and times indicated.

Guidelines for Creating a Safe Space:

• We welcome and respect everyone.

• We respect others’ physical and emotional boundaries.

• We acknowledge that our actions and words may have unintended effects on other people and that their feelings are valid, regardless of your intentions.

• We appreciate diversity and value everyone’s voice.

• We respect people’s opinions, beliefs, differing states of being and differing points of view.

• We respect others’ identities and backgrounds, including pronouns and names.

• We treat and care for everyone equally.

• Whenever we are in doubt, we will start by being kind.

• We value confidentiality.

• We encourage everyone to care of their own safety. If you need to step out, feel free to do so. If you feel unsafe, let the facilitator know.

WESTEM programming is mandated to support rural/remote Southern Alberta women; does not include Calgary.