“The WiCyS Target Cyber Defense Challenge was an incredible opportunity that allowed me to develop new skills while participating in real-world offensive and defensive security scenarios. I embraced the challenge, stepping out of my comfort zone to acquire knowledge within a limited timeline. This experience sharpened my problem-solving skills and enhanced my documentation capabilities as a cybersecurity researcher. The intensity of the challenge allowed me to showcase my resourcefulness and ability to thrive under pressure. It reinforced to me the power of collaboration and support available within the WiCyS community.”
—Thanyathorn (Smile) Thanapattheerakul, Vulnerability Research Analysis Lead, Trend Micro Canada Technologies Inc.
For many tech professionals, career transitions can feel daunting. Thanyathorn (Smile) Thanapattheerakul, a former front-end software engineer, found herself at a crossroads in 2021. She loved working in technology but didn’t see herself in the same role long-term. Eager to explore new career paths, she stumbled upon cybersecurity—a field that intrigued her but felt unfamiliar. Little did she know, this discovery would set her on a transformative journey, one that would be shaped by a supportive community and bold leaps of faith.
Smile’s first step into cybersecurity was through Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS). She joined the Toronto affiliate’s Slack community and attended social gatherings, where she connected with women who had successfully navigated similar career transitions. Seeing others thrive in cybersecurity reassured her that this new path was not only possible but promising.
“The main part of WiCyS that helped me during my career transition was the community,” Smile shared. “The meet-ups in Toronto built a safe environment for me to go in and see all the folks in cybersecurity, especially other women who were going through the same challenges and journeys. It gave me the space to navigate my cybersecurity journey.”
For nearly three years, Smile’s involvement with WiCyS remained local. However, a single LinkedIn post changed everything. In 2024, she came across an announcement about the WiCyS Target Cyber Defense Challenge, a Capture the Flag (CTF) competition designed to give participants hands-on cybersecurity experience. The grand prize? A scholarship to attend the WiCyS Conference. Despite feeling uncertain about her chances, Smile decided to take the leap.
“I figured, if I won, I could attend the conference, but even if I didn’t, I would still gain valuable experience.” It was a calculated risk, one that would ultimately push her out of her comfort zone. Smile ended up winning the conference scholarship, finishing in fourth place. The competition proved to be a pivotal moment in her journey. It challenged her in ways she hadn’t expected, strengthening her problem-solving and technical skills while showing her how much pressure she could truly handle.
“The WiCyS Target Cyber Defense Challenge was an incredible opportunity that allowed me to learn new skills and experience real-world offensive and defensive security scenarios. I embraced the challenge, stepping out of my comfort zone to acquire knowledge within a limited timeline. This experience sharpened my thought process and enhanced my documentation skills as a cybersecurity researcher.”
Following the challenge, Smile’s engagement with WiCyS deepened. She joined the global WiCyS Mentorship Program—not just as a mentee, but as a mentor. “I like to coach and mentor people, and that’s also a big part of my job right now,” she explained. As a Team Lead at Trend Micro Canada Technologies Inc., Smile helps run an internship program in the company’s vulnerability research department. She trains aspiring vulnerability researchers, guiding them as they develop their skills and gain confidence in the field.
For anyone considering a transition into cybersecurity, Smile emphasizes the wealth of resources WiCyS offers. “If you’re going through a career transition, the WiCyS Security Training Scholarship Program is an eminent opportunity for beginners or those looking to build credibility in cybersecurity,” she advised. “Even just attending WiCyS webinars throughout the year provides insights from professionals in the field.”
Looking back, Smile realizes her journey wasn’t just about switching careers; it was about finding a community that gave her the courage to take risks. She didn’t have every step mapped out when she first joined WiCyS, but through each challenge and new connection, she discovered her own potential. Now, as she prepares to attend the upcoming WiCyS Conference, she is eager to continue growing, connecting and giving back—just as others once did for her.
Smile’s story is a testament to the power of community, mentorship and taking chances. For anyone considering a career in cybersecurity, her journey is proof that sometimes, the biggest transformations begin with a single step into the unknown.
Learn about all of our WiCyS Stories and submit your own HERE