Role Model of the Month (5/2025): Svitlana Chaplinska

Who: Svitlana Chaplinska, Security Engineer, Metacore

Study background: Master’s in Security and Cloud Computing (Aalto University & KTH Royal Institute of Technology), Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity (Lviv Polytechnic

National University)

Professional interests: Information security management, cloud security, development security, AI security

Hobbies: Travelling, coffee, nature

Motto: Be the change you want to see in the world

LinkedIn: Svitlana Chaplinska – LinkedIn

A Cybersecurity Career That Grew With Curiosity

Svitlana’s journey into cybersecurity wasn’t something she had planned from the very beginning — but it turned out to be exactly the right path.

While studying Software Engineering at a college-level program, she began exploring other IT fields for her Bachelor's degree. Cybersecurity caught her attention, and after a successful application process, she was in. “During my studies, I had an early internship in the field and decided it was a career path I wanted to pursue. Years later, I’m still very happy with my choice,” she says.

This curiosity-led decision marked the start of a professional journey that has since taken her across countries, academic degrees, and roles — and she hasn’t looked back.

Why Cybersecurity?

For Svitlana, cybersecurity is not just a profession — it’s a meaningful mission.

“We have the ability to influence how secure the digital future will be, so we work to make it safe and comfortable for everyone.”

She highlights the importance of building security into the services and systems people use every day. Collaborating with developers and engineers allows her to help shape solutions where security isn’t an afterthought but an integral part of the design.

And her motivation doesn’t end with the job — she also finds joy in helping people outside work:

“It’s also about helping our friends, families, and even strangers on the internet stay safe.”

A Multi-Faceted Career

Svitlana's experience in cybersecurity spans a broad range of roles, both in-house and consulting. She has worked as a SOC analyst, conducted security assessments, developed information security management systems, organized cyber incident exercises, and led trainings - and even ventured into Al security.

In her current role at Metacore, she focuses on building and refining the company's information security management processes and strengthening its overall security posture. Her work includes:

• Defining information security processes and policies

• Hosting internal security trainings

• Introducing maturity models to help teams grow their security practices

• Working on cloud security initiatives

• Overseeing tool security review processes and vendor management

• Conducting threat modeling and risk assessments

This combination of strategic thinking and hands-on technical work keeps her days diverse and fulfilling.

Realistic Expectations and Meaningful Impact

From the very beginning of her career, Svitlana felt she had found her professional home.

“From my first cybersecurity event and my very first job, I knew I was in the right place. We make a positive difference and that’s the best motivation to stay excited about the work we do.”

But it hasn’t always been easy. One of the biggest challenges she faced was choosing her direction — a relatable experience for many new professionals in such a broad and rapidly growing field.

Advice for Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals

Svitlana encourages anyone interested in cybersecurity to embrace their individuality and trust their own journey:

“Cybersecurity is diverse. There’s no set path you have to follow, no specific way you have to look, and no particular hobbies you need to have. Just be yourself and do the things that bring you joy — the rest will follow.”

She also reminds us of the strength of community:

“Support is the backbone of the cybersecurity world. Don’t be afraid to ask for help — you’ll find people ready to support you.”

Her final message is both grounding and empowering:

“Don't compare yourself to others. The only person you should compare yourself to is who you were yesterday. You’ve got this!”

The Women4Cyber Finland Role Model of the Month series showcases the career journeys of women who have made significant contributions to the field of cybersecurity. This initiative aims to raise awareness of the diverse career and educational opportunities within the industry while highlighting individuals whose achievements and dedication serve as an inspiration to others.Do you know a woman whose career story you find inspiring or interesting?

You can nominate a Role Model of the Month by sending the person's name, contact information (email/phone number), and a brief justification to: articles(at)women4cyberfinland.com.

Picture: Svitlana Chaplinska

Text: Laura Liukkonen, W4CFI Articles