iSANZ InfoSec awards to celebrate Kiwi security sector

The spotlight will be shining on Kiwis fighting to protect networks from malicious activity in December, with the annual iSanz awards taking to the stage at Te Papa.

The awards, which recognise excellence in New Zealand's world-class information security industry, are a first for the Kiwi InfoSec community where in the past there has only been one award category across the technology sector for security.

Kendra Ross, iSanz committee chair, says the awards will shine the spotlight on the excellent work being carried out in security across the spectrum in New Zealand from all areas, including the Kiwi reseller channel.

"We want the awards to be an evening of celebration and recognition of the excellence that has been flying under the radar in New Zealand for so long," Ross says.

"We want that recognition to go all the way up to board level for the entrants and finalists so their management is appreciative of the skills and high level of quality work their people bring to their organisations and in doing so help them to be secure, protect their IP, reputation and the crown jewels.

Ross says New Zealand is not immune from the effects of an ever-increasing battery of cyber exploits but what's less well known is that many New Zealand individuals and organisations are making great strides in protecting networks from malicious activity.

"New Zealand has some of the brightest, most innovative security people and teams in the world," Ross says. "However, much of their good work flies under the radar.

"These awards are an opportunity to recognise the good guys and small victories that are possible in the never-ending war against cybercrime.

Awards will be presented across five categories, including Best International Superstar, which is open to individuals who have achieved significant results in the development or promotion of security work that has had a high international profile.

The Best Security Project/Initiative, meanwhile, is open to companies or organisations who have successfully deployed and implemented an InfoSec project or initiative or who have successfully initiated best InfoSec practices.

Also up for grabs is the Best Security Awareness Campaign award, which is open to companies or organisations who have successfully deployed a formal security awareness program covering outreach, education and assistance in order to raise awareness of InfoSec nationally.

The Best Security Company of he Year will go to a security company 'with superior security products or solutions that help customers tackle today's most pressing InfoSec challenges'.

A Hall of Fame award will also be presented at the 08 December awards. The special nominated category is open to a person, event or company which has made a significant contribution to the wider InfoSec community.

Ross says she's expecting entries from across the board, including the New Zealand reseller channel.

"For resellers, entering these awards will be for recognition, to highlight to the market the depth and understanding they have in building out solutions in this sector of the market," Ross says.

"Resellers can also participate through sponsorship, which also signals they are supportive of this community," she adds.

Nominations for the 2015 iSanz Awards are open now, and close at noon on Friday 30 October 2015. For entry details click here.