Mastercard Emerging Leaders Cyber Initiative
Designed to empower women and non-binary leaders who want to shape the future of Canadian cybersecurity.
Funding provided in part by
Overview
The Mastercard Emerging Leaders Cyber Initiative (ELCI) is a Catalyst program designed to empower women and non-binary leaders seeking to advance into executive-level positions in cybersecurity or related fields.
The Catalyst is grateful for the continued support of Mastercard Canada, whose investment is supporting the development of a diverse community of cybersecurity leaders.
ELCI offers a comprehensive, executive-level curriculum for leaders navigating increasingly complex digital environments shaped by rapid AI adoption, geopolitical uncertainty, and emerging cyber threats.
The program is built on a core philosophy: effective executives must understand cybersecurity not as an individual function, but as a strategic, enterprise-wide risk. To achieve this, ELCI provides in-depth explorations of a broad range of critical cybersecurity topics.
Rather than focusing solely on technical solutions, the program examines cybersecurity through a broader leadership lens, preparing learners to address the evolving risks organizations face today and anticipate the challenges ahead. Leaders today are expected to make high-impact decisions on cyber and AI risk faster than regulation, standards, and best practices can keep pace.
Across six instructor-led modules, learners engage in:
- Scenario-based discussions
- Executive-level case analysis
- Expert panels and guest speakers
- Applied exercises
- Collaborative peer learning
Each module integrates Canadian context and global industry trends, ensuring learning remains relevant, current, and actionable. The program weaves innovation and emerging technologies throughout each module, equipping leaders to anticipate risk, identify opportunity, and guide responsible adoption within their organizations.
A part-time, hybrid program, ELCI will run from October 2026 – May 2027.
In-person programming will be full days, including formal class time and social networking opportunities.
| Module | Location & Dates |
|---|---|
| 1 | In-person: Toronto | Brampton October 4 – 7, 2026 |
| 2 | In-person: Toronto | Brampton November 15 – 18, 2026 |
| 3 | Virtual: Wed January 13 / 27 & February 10 / 24, 2027 (2 hour timeslot) |
| 4 | In-person: Toronto | Brampton March 14 – 17, 2027 |
| 5 | In-person: Toronto | Brampton April 18 – 21, 2027 |
| 6 | In-person: Toronto | Brampton May 17 – 19, 2027 |
A range of programming and support complements core modules focused on strengthening the skills leaders need to become changemakers within the cyber sector.
Human Skills Development
ELCI recognizes the breadth of skills required to excel in leadership positions. The cybersecurity and digital risk curriculum is complemented by leadership and human skills programming designed to help you further develop the characteristics you need to succeed at executive levels. Engage in topics such as:
- Discovering your personal leadership style;
- Supporting personal and team mental health;
- Executive presentation skills;
- And more.
Culminating Cyber Challenge Projects
Learners consolidate their program learning with a cumulative capstone project demonstrating newly developed digital risk management strategies, multi-disciplinary perspectives and executive communication skills.
Access to Leads, Speakers and Industry Experts
Module leads and facilitators engage with learners one-on-one or in small groups on questions related to the program curriculum, career advancement and other topics.
Career Mentorship
Learners will be matched with a leader who has committed to providing a minimum of 10 hours of individualized support during the program.
Network Building
There are several opportunities for learners to work, socialize, and share ideas with each other. In addition, ELCI brings in expert guest speakers and hosts several networking receptions with senior industry leaders.
Alumni Community
ELCI has cultivated a strong, engaged, and growing alumni network. Program participants gain exclusive access to alumni sessions.
ELCI is designed for women and non-binary leaders with oversight of organizational cybersecurity and related functions, who aspire to senior executive-level positions.
The ELCI cohort is composed of participants with a mix of technical and non-technical backgrounds. ELCI participants have, or have had, roles that take account of cybersecurity and digital risks across various business areas including, but not limited to:
- Strategy and operations
- Finance
- IT and cybersecurity
- Information management
- Law, privacy and data governance
- Risk management
Successful candidates will possess the following qualities:
- Professional achievement:
- Demonstrated expertise in their field with responsibilities that take account of digital risk.
- Leadership experience:
- Proven track record of leading people and processes; 8+ years of related experience with job titles such as Senior Manager, Director, VP or equivalent.
- Upward career progression:
- Successful organizational impact, with aspirations for an executive-level role.
Applicants must currently reside in Canada and be a Canadian citizen, Permanent Resident or Convention Refugee.
Thanks to the generosity of Mastercard Canada, ELCI is offered at no cost to participants. However, participants will be responsible for their own travel and accommodation costs for the in-person residencies.
How to Apply
Step 1 – Initial application
Qualified women and non-binary individuals are invited to complete an online application, available here.
Before applying, please be sure that you are able to commit to the program schedule – including all five in-person residencies – as well as 8-10 hours/month outside of formal class time for group work, readings, and mentor connections.
Applications are open April 16 – May 22, 2026
Note that applications will require:
- An updated resume
- A personal statement of interest (no more than 500 words)
Step 2 – Online interview & references
A shortlist of applicants will be invited to complete an online video interview in June 2026.
Names and email addresses of two references will also be requested at this time. References required will include:
- One professional reference: Current employer, former employer, career mentor or professor.
- One leadership reference: Someone you have managed or mentored, either formally or informally.
Step 3 – Decisions
Successful candidates will be notified by July 11, 2026.
Investing in leadership development is critical for organizations navigating the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. If you’re considering applying and would like assistance in presenting the opportunity to your leadership – here are some tips on building that case. Below, we outline how ELCI benefits both you and your organization, along with actionable steps to present a strong case to your employer.
Supporting your participation in ELCI is not just an investment in your career—it’s an investment in your organization’s future.
To secure employer support, frame your participation as a strategic advantage. Below are key steps to crafting a compelling case:
- Align with Organizational Priorities
Highlight how ELCI’s curriculum aligns with your company’s cybersecurity goals. Emphasize the program topics you find are most relevant to your role and organization. - Emphasize Return on Investment (ROI)
Organizations benefit when employees bring fresh insights, best practices, and leadership strategies back to their teams. ELCI provides high-impact learning through executive mentorship, industry networking, and applied cybersecurity strategies that directly benefit your workplace. - Address Cost Considerations
Thanks to Mastercard Canada’s support, ELCI is offered at no cost to participants. Learners and their organisations are only responsible for covering travel and accommodation for in-person residencies. - Highlight Your Personal Career Goals
Show how ELCI fits into your long-term professional development and how your growth will positively impact your organization.
What Canada's cyber changemakers have to say
“Programs like this are so important, especially in cybersecurity where threats are always evolving, we need to always be learning. If you can’t communicate the risks of a cyber attack or the risk of a system going down, what does that mean in dollars, in operations. I think communication is really everything in this field.”
“Learning about cybersecurity and cyber risk in this program has increased my confidence. The opportunity for women to come together and network is crucial.”
“This was life-changing and I feel like it was thoughtfully built.”
“It was such an honour and privilege to be in the room with such an amazing group of women. Thank you so much for the opportunity!”
“Attending this program allowed me to see where the opportunities lay in the next phase of my career, and how I could build myself.”
“This program has widened the lens and allowed learners to consider what they can contribute to cybersecurity, no matter what seat they’re in within their organization.”
– Trish, Program Director
“This has been the most important thing that has happened to me in my cybersecurity career.”
“I definitely feel more confident being able to explain cybersecurity to decision makers.”
“ELCI isn’t just about learning. It’s about connecting with like-minded people, supporting one another, and using real-world lessons in leadership, business continuity, and risk management to make tangible improvements in security practices at work.”
“This is a program you have to lean into—embrace vulnerability, stay engaged, and you’ll walk away with invaluable knowledge and connections.”
“The ELCI program helps showcase how much incredible, raw talent Canada has in its cybersecurity community. I feel exceptionally privileged to have connected with such an incredible group of female and non-binary leaders!”
“ELCI kick started my career as an Executive in Cybersecurity.”
ELCI Benefits
A part-time, hybrid program, ELCI combined five in-person residencies with online learning over seven months. Outside of dedicated class time, learners can expect to commit an additional eight to ten hours a month on reading, coursework and other programming.
The core modules will be complemented by additional skills development focused on deepening participants’ business acumen and providing them with a well-rounded set of leadership and professional skills to become changemakers within the cyber sector.
Individual Benefits
- Develop a strategic, executive-level understanding of cybersecurity risks and how to safeguard organizations against evolving threats;
- Strengthen your business acumen and leadership capabilities to drive cybersecurity strategy at the highest levels;
- Unlock your full leadership potential with executive training tailored for women and non-binary professionals in cybersecurity;
- Access mentors and build powerful connections with top industry leaders and decision-makers;
- Engage with experts who are shaping the future of cybersecurity and digital risk management;
- Become part of a network of cybersecurity leaders, with continued access to exclusive events and opportunities.
Organizational Benefits
- Strengthen your organizational leadership capacity;
- Enhance employee engagement and retention by investing in diverse, high-potential leaders within your organization;
- Deepen organizational knowledge of the latest digital risk mitigation practices and strategies;
- Advance equity and inclusion by fostering a diverse leadership pipeline in cybersecurity.
Advisory Groups & Faculty
Director, Cybersecurity
Research Lab;
Associate Professor, Toronto Metropolitan University
Frequently Asked Questions
Are applications for the ELCI program currently open?
Yes, applications for the next ELCI cohort are open until May 22, 2026. To apply visit, https://elci.classe365.com/form/view/ecliadmission_ApplicationForm_2026_2027.
Who is eligible to participate in the ELCI Catalyst program?
The ELCI was designed for experienced women and non-binary leaders who currently oversee cybersecurity, digital risk, or related business functions and are seeking to advance into executive leadership roles. Ideally, participants typically have eight or more years of professional experience in areas such as IT, risk management, finance, operations, law, privacy, or data governance.
Program applicants must reside in Canada and be a Canadian citizen, Permanent Resident, or Convention Refugee at the time of application.
Do I need a technical cybersecurity background to apply?
No, ELCI welcomes applicants from both technical and non-technical backgrounds whose roles involve managing or responding to digital risk. The program is built to help leaders develop a holistic understanding of cybersecurity challenges that impact organizational performance, regardless of their functional expertise.
How much time should I expect to commit to the program?
Participants are expected to attend all in-person residencies and dedicate approximately 8-10 hours per month outside of scheduled sessions for readings, group work, and mentorship activities.
How does the ELCI support leadership development?
In addition to technical and strategic cyber risk content, the ELCI includes leadership and human skills development programming. Participants will engage in executive-focused training on topics such as leadership style, team wellbeing, communication, and decision-making under pressure.
Is there a cost to participate in the ELCI?
Thanks to the support of Mastercard Canada, there is no tuition cost for participants. Learners and their organizations are responsible for travel and accommodation expenses associated with in-person program residencies.
How do I apply to the ELCI program?
Applicants can apply by completing the online application available on the ELCI program page. The application process includes submitting an updated resume and a personal statement of interest of no more than 500 words.
Shortlisted applicants are invited to complete an online video interview and provide two references, including one professional reference and one leadership reference, before final admission decisions are made.
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