Last night in Las Vegas, Kosovo was honored with two prestigious recognitions at one of the world’s most important stages in the field of cybersecurity.
Luanda Domi, an internationally renowned cybersecurity expert, was awarded “Cybersecurity Woman of the Year 2025” in the category Supporter of the Year. Meanwhile, 24-year-old rising talent from Prishtina, Dredhza Braina, won in the category Breaking Barriers. The grand ceremony took place during the Cybersecurity Woman of the Year Awards 2025, an event that this year brought together leading names of the industry from across the globe.
This marks the eighth edition of the event but the first time two Albanian women from Kosovo have received such an honor. The selection process unfolded in several phases: an international jury initially shortlisted candidates from a large pool of applications and nominations worldwide. A second panel of professionals then selected the finalists. In the final stage, winners were determined through an open public voting process, where both Domi and Braina received strong support from Kosovo.
Luanda Domi: A Global Leader in Cybersecurity
Present at the ceremony, Luanda Domi currently serves as Manager for Cyber Capacity Building and Gender Integration at the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise (GFCE) in the Netherlands, where she leads the global Women in Cyber Capacity Building Network. She also facilitates two global working groups on Critical Infrastructure Protection & Incident Management and Cybersecurity Culture & Skills. Beyond GFCE, Domi represents Kosovo as Governor for Responsible AI at the Global Council for Responsible AI in the United States.
With more than a decade of international experience, she has contributed to shaping national and regional cybersecurity strategies and advancing the digital transformation of public institutions.
In her acceptance speech, Domi said:
“This award may carry my name, but it belongs to every woman who has been told she does not belong at a decision-making table or on a leadership board. It belongs to every girl from a small town or a war-torn country who dares to dream bigger. It belongs to every ally who opens doors, who listens, who makes space. Because only when everyone is given the chance to participate, our collective security becomes stronger, fairer, and more inclusive.”
Dredhza Braina: A Rising Star from Prishtina
At just 24 years old, Dredhza Braina is at the beginning of her career, working as a Cyber Threat Researcher for U.S.-based company Permiso Security, operating remotely from Prishtina. Her recognition in the Breaking Barriers category marks a major milestone in her professional journey and serves as an inspiring example for young people in Kosovo pursuing careers in technology and cybersecurity.
A Milestone for Kosovo
For Kosovo, these two victories represent clear evidence of the potential, talent, and dedication that its experts bring to the international cybersecurity arena. They not only highlight individual excellence but also place Kosovo firmly on the global map of digital innovation and cybersecurity leadership.