As digital technologies become increasingly essential to daily life, underserved communities often face disproportionate risks from cyber threats while having limited access to practical security education and support. My Leadership-in-Action project aims to address this digital security gap by collaborating with Engineers Without Borders Canada to co-develop accessible mobile security education and a simplified malware risk-assessment tool tailored to community needs.

Over six weeks in Vancouver, I will work closely with community partners to understand the unique digital security challenges faced by underserved populations. Rather than designing solutions independently, I will adopt a co-creation approach by engaging with local organizations and community members throughout the project. Together, we will develop culturally relevant educational resources, deliver interactive training workshops, and prototype an easy-to-use tool that helps users better understand potential mobile security risks.

The project has three primary objectives: to improve community awareness of mobile malware and safe digital practices, strengthen the capacity of local organizations to provide ongoing cybersecurity support, and establish sustainable educational resources that can continue benefiting the community beyond the duration of the project. Success will be evaluated through participant feedback, knowledge assessments, and the successful delivery of educational materials and the prototype tool.

Beyond its technical outcomes, this project is an opportunity to develop leadership by working across cultures, building partnerships, and leading through collaboration rather than authority. I hope the experience will demonstrate how technology, when designed with empathy and in partnership with communities, can promote digital inclusion and empower people to participate more safely and confidently in today's connected world.