Stephanie Itimi

InfoSec Director at Age UK | Founder of Seidea CIC

“I believe in diversity because the most innovative solutions come from a mix of perspectives. When we uplift women and underrepresented groups in Digital and Design, we create a more inclusive and impactful future for all”.

Stephanie Itimi is a cybersecurity and digital inclusion leader making global impact. As Founder/Chair of Seidea CIC, she's empowered over 8,000 BME women through training and mentorship programs. Her executive leadership spans Age UK (Information Protection Director) and NHS Blood and Transplant (Associate Non-Executive Director), where she strengthens data governance and equity initiatives. Internationally, Stephanie co-launched BBC's WhatsApp health service during Ebola, reaching 16,000+ West Africans and fighting misinformation alongside UNICEF, WHO, and CDC.

A recognised tech ethics authority, Stephanie contributes to the World Economic Forum's Cybersecurity Outlook 2025, advises UN Women and the European Commission on digital inclusion, teaches Explainable AI, and lectures at Oxford and Royal Holloway. Her excellence is acknowledged by the Evening Standard as a 2022 Cyber Security Influencer and as a UK National Cybersecurity Award Finalist.

 • Why did you choose to speak at this event?

I chose to speak at this event because conversations about digital innovation and inclusion need to be action driven. Representation matters, and by sharing my journey, I hope to empower others to step into leadership roles and shape the future of technology.

• Why do you believe in diversity?

Diversity fuels innovation. When we bring different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences to the table, we create solutions that are more effective, inclusive, and reflective of the world we live in. True progress happens when no one is left behind. 

• Why is it important to support women and everyone in Digital and Design?

The digital and design industries shape how we live, work, and interact with the world. If women and underrepresented communities are not part of that process, we risk building a future that doesn’t serve everyone. Equity in these spaces isn’t just important—it’s essential for innovation, growth, and long-term success.