Cyber for Good: Why a safer digital future starts with the next generation

What if one of the most important investments we can make in cybersecurity isn't another technology, but the next generation?

Young people are growing up in a world where social media, gaming, connected technology and increasingly AI are part of everyday life. Helping them understand how to navigate that world safely isn’t only about protecting them today. It is about building the knowledge, confidence and digital resilience our society will need for the future.

Aletta Girardi, VP Channel Sales EMEA at SamurAI by NTT Security and a proud HackShield ambassador, believes creating a safer digital future starts with people: giving young people the knowledge, confidence and critical thinking skills they need to navigate an increasingly digital world.

We sat down with Aletta to talk about Cyber for Good, why businesses have a role to play, and what we can do today to help build a more resilient society tomorrow.

"Cyber for Good" is a topic you're passionate about. What does it mean to you?

For me, Cyber for Good is about using cybersecurity as a force for positive impact. We often talk about cyber in the context of risks, threats and attacks, but cybersecurity also has the power to enable trust, opportunity and inclusion.  When we help children, families and communities understand how to navigate the digital world safely, we're not just reducing risk. We're helping create a society that is more resilient, informed and confident in the use of technology.

Why is supporting younger generations so important?

Our children are growing up in a digital-first world. Technology, social media, gaming and increasingly AI are a natural part of everyday life. The next generation will become our future leaders, innovators and decision-makers. Giving them the tools to think critically, recognize risks and use technology responsibly isn't a nice-to-have. It's essential.

If we want a safer digital future, we need to start by educating and empowering those who will shape it.

What attracted you to HackShield?

What I love about HackShield is its positive approach. Instead of teaching through fear, it empowers children to become "Cyber Heroes". Through gamification, storytelling and practical challenges, young people learn how to recognize online risks and make safer choices.  It helps build awareness, confidence and digital resilience in a way that's engaging and accessible.

Cybersecurity is often viewed as a technology challenge. Why do you believe it is also a societal challenge?

Technology is only one part of the equation. Creating a safer digital world requires collaboration between schools, parents, governments, businesses and communities.  We all have a role to play in helping young people develop the skills they'll need to navigate an increasingly connected world. The more we invest in digital literacy and cyber awareness, the stronger our collective resilience becomes.

What role should businesses play?

Businesses have both an opportunity and a responsibility. Organizations possess expertise, resources and influence that can be used to support meaningful initiatives. By investing in education, responsible technology and community engagement, companies can make a real difference.  Cybersecurity isn't only about protecting today's business operations. It's also about helping create a safer digital future for everyone.

Looking ahead, what gives you hope?

The passion and curiosity of young people. Every time I see children engaging with cybersecurity through programs like HackShield, I'm reminded that the future is full of potential. When we combine education, innovation and collaboration, we can inspire the next generation to become responsible digital citizens and future cyber leaders. That's why this work matters so much.

Thank you Aletta for your insights. We agree. The future of cybersecurity doesn't start with technology. It starts with people. By empowering the next generation with knowledge, confidence and digital resilience, we can build a safer digital future for everyone.

Contact us to learn more about SamurAI by NTT Security.