IAEA Profile: Harnessing Technology to Build Connections and Protect Data

Zvirawa was introduced to the world of information security when she moved to a software company specializing in security solutions. Her role involved working with large companies where cyber security attacks could have significant financial implications, and she was able to hone her problem solving and communication skills. “That’s where I fell in love with cyber security,” she says.

A significant turning point in Zvirawa’s career was when she joined the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in New York as an infrastructure security analyst. This position allowed her to combine her expertise in computer networking with her passion for information security, and she found it exciting to work in such an international environment. “Working with over 60 countries at UNFPA opened my eyes to how IT policies and regulations vary around the world,” she says. “You have to be creative, especially when facing challenges like dealing with embargoed countries or restricted access to software in some jurisdictions.” During this time, Zvirawa also completed a Master of Science degree in information security and assurance, which was supported and partly funded by her employer.

In 2018, Zvirawa joined the IAEA as an IT security engineer. In this role, she focused on detecting and analysing cyber security threats and led several cyber security initiatives to strengthen the security of the Agency’s data and systems. “The global growth in access to technology is a double-edged sword,” she explains. “While it opens up incredible opportunities, it also increases risks, which makes security a top priority.”

Zvirawa’s next position at the IAEA was as an information security officer, where her focus shifted from the operational aspects of information security to governance, risk management and compliance. One of her notable achievements in this role was coordinating the organization’s efforts to obtain ISO certification in information security, ensuring it meets international industry standards.

In her current role, Zvirawa oversees how the IAEA controls access to its digital data and systems by managing user identities. “As an Agency, robust digital identity and access management are crucial for building trust, as poorly managed identities can lead to data breaches and privacy issues,” she explains. “We need to ensure the right people have access to the right resources for the right reasons.” Reflecting on her transition to this role, Zvirawa notes, “One of the advantages of working in IT is that it’s so dynamic. It’s always changing, and this keeps the work exciting and full of opportunities to keep growing.”

Zvirawa places great value on the importance of mentorship in her career development. During her time in New York, she found a mentor in her supervisor, who provided valuable guidance and support. “It made me realize that mentorship doesn’t have to be woman to woman. You can find allies in all sorts of people,” she advises. “If you admire someone’s work and believe they can help you navigate your career, don’t be scared to reach out.”

When it comes to encouraging young people to pursue careers in IT, Zvirawa advises them to “be open, follow your passions and don’t be afraid to be yourself, as you can bring your unique perspective to the table. In IT, we have people from all different backgrounds, and it is each person’s uniqueness that leads to innovative solutions.” 

For Zvirawa, IT isn’t just about technology – it’s about the people behind it and the connections it facilitates. She’s driven by the belief that technology enables us to communicate and innovate and that there are limitless opportunities in this ever-evolving field.

The IAEA is committed to gender equality and to supporting the ability of all individuals, regardless of gender, to equally contribute to and benefit from its programmes and activities. To this end, the IAEA strives to achieve gender balance in the Secretariat and to implement gender mainstreaming in its programmes and activities. 

Additionally, in 2020, the IAEA launched the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship Programme (MSCFP) to support the next generation of women nuclear professionals by offering scholarships for master’s degree in nuclear-related fields. A new IAEA initiative launched in March 2023, the Lise Meitner Programme, offers early- and mid-career women multiweek training visits to nuclear facilities. 

Read more about the IAEA’s work on gender equality, and apply for vacancies, internships or pipelines.