Northern Ireland woman leading Ukraine cyber efforts named winner at national tech awards
Ganna Pogrebna, a pioneer in behavioural AI at Queen’s University Belfast, recognised for transforming cyber defence, driving innovation, and championing diversity in technology
An exceptional woman from Belfast working in the technology industry has been recognised at the prestigious Salesforce everywoman in Technology Awards.
The ceremony at the Westminster Park Plaza Hotel marked the 16th year of this landmark programme, celebrating the women transforming the industry through their innovation, leadership and vision.
Ganna Pogrebna, Professor, David Trimble Chair and executive director at AI and Cyber Futures Institute at Queens University Belfast, from Belfast, won the Innovator Award.
Ganna is a pioneer in behavioural AI, delivering over 200 AI products across defence, finance and critical infrastructure. Her innovations have transformed how governments, defence institutions and international organisations approach digital risk in high-stakes environments.
She developed forecasting tools to maintain cyber operations in Ukraine during infrastructure attacks by Russia, and was a lead analyst for the World Bank-commissioned Cyber Resilience Strategy.
Her analytical support has shaped a new approach to cyber defence in fragile democracies. Ganna actively fosters diversity in AI and cybersecurity and established an Emerging Tech Acceleration Fellowship to support early-career researchers, securing institutional and industry backing for mentoring, stipends and international placements.
The awards aim to inspire the next generation of female talent to pursue careers in tech by shining a spotlight on inspirational women at all stages of their careers, including those taking their first steps in apprenticeships through to C-suite executives and innovative leaders running their own businesses.
Attracting more women to the sector remains critical, as female employees account for 24.8% of the total STEM workforce, and government figures suggest this has fallen from 29.4% in 2020.
Winners showcase the full breadth of the industry, from teenagers inspiring their classmates to join computer science clubs, through to women using AI to accelerate scientific discoveries and encouraging girls all over the world to unlock the power of a digital education for transforming their lives.
Nicole Goodwin and Sophie Catto, joint managing directors of AllBright everywoman, said: “Remarkable women across the technology sector are developing innovations that have the power to transform how we live and work, while building systems that generate significant value for the UK economy. Many of this year’s finalists are also leading inspiring initiatives that equip girls with the skills and confidence to use technology as a pathway out of poverty.
“By bringing this powerful community of tech leaders and visionaries together through the Salesforce everywoman in Technology Awards, we celebrate their achievements and amplify their stories, creating visible role models who can inspire the next generation to pursue careers in STEM.”
Zahra Bahrololoumi CBE, CEO, Salesforce UK & Ireland, said: “As AI increasingly powers high-stakes decisions, from loan approvals to hiring, it is essential that more women enter and advance in the technology industry to prevent perpetuating societal biases.
"Elevating the profile of women in the industry is more important than ever to highlight their essential work and encourage interest in STEM careers. We cannot be what we cannot see, which is why Salesforce is proud to sponsor and celebrate the everywoman in Technology Awards.”