I'm Cynthia Akiotu, a Cybersecurity Architect, technical leader and Microsoft MVP in Security Copilot. I currently work at Accenture as a Cybersecurity Data Protection Associate Manager, within the Microsoft Business Group.
My expertise spans identity security, data protection, enterprise governance and agentic AI security. I bring a combination of technical depth, strategic thinking and a risk-led perspective, shaped by experience spanning hands-on technical delivery through to executive-level engagement.
I'm particularly interested in how emerging technologies are changing the way organisations operate and what that means for security, trust and accountability.
As technology changes how organisations operate, how do we make sure security evolves with it?
It's a question that continues to shape my perspective on cybersecurity.
My cybersecurity journey has been built on a strong foundation in identity and access management, Zero Trust, data protection and enterprise security architecture.
Today, the rise of agentic AI is introducing a new dimension to those established security principles.
AI agents are moving beyond responding to prompts. They can access information, interact with enterprise systems, use tools and take actions, introducing new questions about identity, permissions, governance and operational control.
For me, securing agentic AI isn't a departure from cybersecurity. It's the next evolution of it.
I'm passionate about connecting established security principles with the challenges of increasingly intelligent and autonomous systems, while recognising that security should enable innovation, not stand in its way.
Beyond my professional role, I'm an international conference speaker and active contributor to the cybersecurity and technology community.
I share practical and strategic perspectives on cybersecurity, identity, data protection, AI security, agentic AI governance and enterprise risk.
As a Microsoft MVP in Security Copilot, I value the opportunity to exchange knowledge, challenge perspectives and contribute to conversations shaping the future of cybersecurity.
For me, speaking and community engagement are about more than sharing knowledge. They're about inspiring meaningful conversations and learning from the experiences of others.
When I'm not immersed in cybersecurity and technology, I love spending quality time with my family.
I cherish the simple moments, laughter and memories we create together. They keep me grounded and remind me of what matters most.
The views and thoughts shared here are based on my own experiences and learnings.