Give to Gain: A Call to Action for Equity, Growth, and Collective Power

By Jeannette Jarvis, Chief Business Officer This International Women’s Day, I’m reflecting on a theme that resonates deeply: Give to Gain. It’s not just a slogan; it’s a strategy for transformation. In cybersecurity, in leadership, in life, the most powerful shifts happen when we choose to give generously and intentionally. Not as charity, but as investment. Not as obligation, but as opportunity. So, what does it mean to “give to gain”? It means: - Give credit where it’s due, especially to women whose ideas have shaped outcomes, but whose names were left off the slide. - Give growth opportunities that stretch potential, not just reward performance. Believe in what’s possible, not just what’s proven. - Give voice by making space at the table, sharing the mic, and amplifying perspectives that challenge the status quo. - Give resources – time, budget, and access to initiatives led by women and underrepresented groups. Equity isn’t free; it’s funded. - Give respect by listening deeply, challenging bias, and showing up with humility. - Give visibility to those whose work is often overlooked. Shine a light on brilliance that’s been operating in the shadows. - Give sponsorship and mentoring with intention. Not just advice, but advocacy. Not just guidance, but doors opened. - Give recognition not just for results, but for resilience, collaboration, and quiet leadership. - Give equal pay because fairness isn’t negotiable. It’s foundational. When we give these things, we don’t lose power, we multiply it. We don’t dilute excellence, we expand it. We don’t risk our influence, we root it in something far more enduring: trust, inclusion, and shared success. In cybersecurity, we talk a lot about collective defense. But collective advancement requires the same mindset. It’s time to build systems where giving isn’t exceptional, it’s expected. Where gain isn’t hoarded, it is shared. This year, I hope you can join me in committing to give more – intentionally, strategically, consistently, and visibly. Because when we Give to Gain, we don’t just change outcomes. We change culture. “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” Winston Churchill