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Microsoft

Chief Security Advisor Africa, Microsoft

President & Founder, Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) Southern Africa

Kerissa Varma is a multi-award-winning cybersecurity leader, executive advisor, and passionate advocate for women in technology. With over 20 years of experience across leading organizations, Kerissa has held pivotal roles in financial service, technology, telecommunications and government.

As Microsoft’s Chief Security Advisor for Africa, Kerissa partners with organizations and leaders to drive cybersecurity transformation, simplify complex security challenges, and position cybersecurity as a core business priority. Her expertise spans executive leadership, board engagement and media relations.

Previously, Kerissa served as Group Chief Information Security Officer at Vodacom and at Old Mutual, where she led large-scale security programs and operations and fostered a culture of resilience and innovation.