WIIS Meet the Judges 2025

Shanel is the SVP – Global Head of Risk Management, Budget, and Strategic Planning at Lazard, a global financial advisory and asset management firm.
She has over a decade of experience in finance, administration, and social services, and holds a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
She is also an Adjunct Professor of Business at The New School and a Continuing Education Teacher at CUNY Hostos Community College, where she teaches accounting and related subjects.

As a strategic thinker with over 22 years of experience in technology, and a proven track record of success in technology risk management leadership, Chrystal has developed the expertise to establish and lead global high-performing teams that prioritize diversity and inclusiveness.

At Ernst & Young LLP, she currently directs technology resiliency, business continuity, and crisis management functions, ensuring the resiliency risk posture of technology enablement. Chrystal has a passion for building business-enabling risk management organizations, and continuously improving her team’s capabilities in alignment with business strategy.

Akhila Nama is the Global Head of Enterprise Security at Box Inc., where she leads security strategy, architecture, and risk management to protect modern environments while supporting business growth. With over a decade of experience across multiple roles and domains, she has a proven track record of helping organizations tackle complex cyber threats and build scalable security programs and teams.

Yashasvi Sharma is a Senior Consultant at Deloitte with a Master’s in Information Technology and Management from the Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago. A self-driven and results-oriented security expert, she brings extensive experience in Identity & Access Management (IAM), data security, and IT strategy. Yashasvi excels in managing complex IT and security projects, leading product integrations, and implementing risk management controls. Known for her leadership, analytical skills, and ability to navigate technical and organizational challenges, she consistently delivers high-impact solutions across diverse teams and environments.

As a cybersecurity professional of color with diverse global experience across top financial institutions, Aishwarya brings a deep commitment to driving excellence, inclusion, and innovation in information security. Currently an Associate at Goldman Sachs, she leads enterprise-wide technology risk assessments and partners with over 20 teams to enhance technology assurance programs and reduce security gaps. Previously, Aishwarya served as a Vice President at BNY Mellon and a consultant at Ernst & Young and Deloitte, where she led IT audits, risk assessments, and governance initiatives across Fortune 500 clients.

As Deputy Director for Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS), Michele is a forward-thinking, results-driven executive committed to advancing WiCyS’s global mission. Her leadership is rooted in a strong dedication to fostering a fair and inclusive culture, and she promotes positive cultural change by
creating flexible, highly collaborative environments where innovation can flourish. Michele provides strategic oversight for key organizational functions, developing long-term plans and implementing data-driven programs to streamline operations and enhance effectiveness. Her focus is on elevating the
role of women in cybersecurity by connecting individuals at all levels to ensure clear communication and alignment with WiCyS’s core values.