Nagpur native Shahana Fatima has brought pride to the city after being chosen by the Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago (USA) as one of seven exceptional students to represent its colleges. The Institute honoured her for her outstanding accomplishments in cybersecurity.
She completed her Master’s degree in Cyber Forensics & Security from the Institute, graduating with top honors and distinction.
In 2024, Shahana had the unique opportunity to spend a month in Kosovo, Europe, where she, along with four classmates, designed and implemented cybersecurity infrastructure for Three Folders, a marketing company based in Pristina, the capital of Kosovo.
Reflecting on what inspired her to pursue a career in cybersecurity, Shahana credits a speech by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at an event in Nagpur a few years ago. He highlighted the rising importance of data, saying, “There was a time when nations with fuel reserves were prosperous, but now, those with data reserves will thrive.” This vision deeply motivated Shahana to choose this field.
“Working in a different country was a significant opportunity,” Shahana said. She was one of five students from Illinois Tech assigned to design and implement complete security solutions for a company based in Kosovo. Their work involved creating intruder detection systems and firewalls. “We worked on the entire cybersecurity framework, consulting with the company’s Chief Information Officer to design optimal security measures,” she revealed. Shahana is passionate about law enforcement and hopes to pursue a career in cyber forensics.
Shahana said, “I have enough knowledge to secure a job in cybersecurity, but I love learning and want to prepare for a career in cyber forensics.” She added, “The Kosovo experience taught me to find and implement solutions when none exist.” Inspired by her grandfather, Iqbal Ahmed—a Guinness World Record holder with numerous international accolades—Shahana began her journey into the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity. She is also actively involved with several global organizations promoting diversity and the inclusion of women in cybersecurity, including WiCys (Women in Cybersecurity).
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