Forging Strong Cyber Communities in Uncertain Times

Learn how to build and sustain robust cybersecurity communities through this 42-minute conference talk from The Diana Initiative 2025. Discover strategies for creating inclusive cybersecurity networks that can withstand evolving threats as HD Moore, creator of the open-source Metasploit Project and CEO of runZero, shares insights from his experience in vulnerability research and community development. Explore how Nicole Schwartz, Chair of the Board for The Diana Initiative and Senior Security Product Manager at ActiveState, applies enduring principles of in-person community building to grow and sustain cybersecurity initiatives. Gain practical approaches for initiating, nurturing, and scaling vital cybersecurity networks while incorporating inclusive practices and cultivating sustainable growth. Understand how to actively contribute to these communities regardless of your current skillset or career stage, and why participation is critical for building collective resilience against cyber threats. Examine the parallels between open-source project development and community building, with real-world examples from successful cybersecurity initiatives and foundations.