Jessica Robinson and Vandana Verma-- WIA: Women in #AppSec

How can application security become a field where more women enter, contribute, and advance? Jessica Robinson and Vandana Verma discuss OWASP Women in AppSec, its local committees, mentoring, training, and conference activities. They explain how chapters can create opportunities without isolating the initiative from the broader community, and why visible leaders and practical support matter. The conversation includes lessons from OWASP Bangalore, Nullcon, networking events, and the challenge of sustaining volunteer programs across geographies. Jessica and Vandana also offer concrete guidance to chapter leaders and allies who want to help: make an explicit commitment, create space for participation, and support people as they build expertise and confidence. The episode frames inclusion as community work that requires repeated action.

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Connect with Jessica Robinson and Vandana Verma:
→ OWASP Women in AppSec
→ Vandana Verma

Mentioned in this episode:
→ OWASP Women in AppSec
→ OWASP Bangalore
→ Nullcon

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Chapters:
00:00 Women in application security
03:07 Vandana Verma’s path into security
05:19 The purpose of Women in AppSec
07:46 Local committees and chapter activities
12:48 Training events and Nullcon
16:13 Mentoring and community support
21:10 Building welcoming professional networks
25:47 Growing leaders across geographies
30:31 What chapter leaders and allies can do
32:49 Final recommendations