Women’s Day is a time to recognize the achievements of women around the world, and at Omada, we are proud to highlight Veselina Korshunova—an accomplished marketing professional whose journey from Bulgaria to Denmark led her into the forefront of technology and cybersecurity. Through her background in business administration and marketing, she discovered a passion for innovative tech startups that fueled her desire to make a greater impact. In our conversation, she offers insights on the rewarding challenges of staying ahead in a rapidly evolving digital environment, the importance of diverse and supportive workplaces, and why embracing curiosity and continuous learning can inspire the next generation of women in tech.
Anders: Hi Veselina!
Veselina: Hello Anders.
Anders: Women’s Day was initiated in the 70s by the United Nations to celebrate women and promote gender equality, spotlight women’s health, and address domestic violence against women. For this interview, women in tech will be the governing theme. Maybe you can start, Veselina, by telling me a bit about your background and how you got into the field of technology and cybersecurity, and more specifically, digital identity.
Veselina: Yes, of course. I am originally from Bulgaria and moved to Denmark 10 years ago. My educational background is in business administration and marketing. I completed a Master’s in Marketing in Aarhus, Denmark. One thing I really liked about Denmark as a student was the diversity of opportunities for student jobs and the chance to join startups and small-scale companies with great ideas to improve life and make society more efficient. Many of these startups were technologyfocused.
This is how I first started in technology. Fresh out of university, I joined a legal tech company with a group of talented people who wanted to innovate. They aimed to help competition lawyers perform tasks like screenings for mergers and acquisitions. I worked as a marketing person but was also very involved in the product and customer feedback. I collaborated with lawyers worldwide to compile a comprehensive body of knowledge on merger control regulations in different jurisdictions. I absolutely loved it. I was sold on the idea of applying technology to make life easier, more efficient, and more secure. It felt meaningful to do work that had a greater impact on how people work.
After this, I continued in tech and transitioned to a company providing digital solutions, focusing on digital signing and automating processes for auditors and accountants. They also helped with customer onboarding and KYC screenings, which involved a lot of compliance and security. Coming from a country that is not as digital as Denmark, I found it amazing to be in a field where digital signatures and electronic identities are central. I was part of a marketing team educating people on these topics, especially in markets where people are less technically savvy or lack trust in technology. It was incredibly fulfilling to position products, shape perceptions, and educate people on how technology mitigates risks.
Anders: Was this the moment in your career when your interest in digital identity and access governance was ignited?
Veselina: Yes, that’s when I started learning about digital identities and their immense opportunities. It was the first time I truly understood what could be achieved in this space.
Anders: Digital identities have indeed become the hub of everything security-related and the frontier of protecting enterprises. Switching gears a bit—as a woman in technology, what challenges have you faced in your journey, and how did you overcome them?
Veselina: That’s an interesting question. Thinking about it, I must say I’ve been very fortunate in my career. I haven’t faced gender-specific challenges. The companies I’ve worked for have been supportive, valuing my skills and contributions irrespective of my gender. I know this isn’t the case for everyone, and I feel lucky. The challenges I’ve faced were mostly about staying up to date in a fast-evolving field. As a marketing professional, staying on top of trends has been a positive challenge. I’ve always received support from my managers and mentors, and that’s why I believe it’s important to work in an environment that supports growth and fosters diversity. Such workplaces create opportunities to learn while balancing work and personal life.
Anders: Have your managers been a source of inspiration, or have there been others who motivated you throughout your journey?
Veselina: Absolutely. My managers have inspired me but so have my colleagues. I’ve seen people at different stages of life—juggling families, high-level positions, and hobbies—and excelling in all areas. I’ve especially admired women in executive positions who manage to balance career and family. Their dedication and energy are inspiring.
Anders: Balancing family life with a demanding tech career is certainly a challenge. Would you say that’s the most rewarding aspect of your work in cybersecurity and digital identity?
Veselina: For me, the most rewarding aspect is working in an environment with motivated and engaged people. At Omada, I’m surrounded by such individuals. It’s fulfilling to contribute to an innovative workplace where everyone strives to achieve the next great thing. Knowing I have a role to play in that is highly rewarding.
Anders: Studies suggest that women tend to choose nurturing professions like teaching or healthcare. As a woman in a predominantly male-dominated industry, what do you think can be done to attract more women to tech?
Veselina: I think fostering diversity is crucial. Diversity isn’t just about gender; it’s about different backgrounds, skill sets, and perspectives. Women bring unique qualities, such as fostering collaboration and supporting change, which contribute to a healthy, innovative environment. Companies need to create flexible and inclusive workplaces to attract and retain women.
Anders: What advice would you give to young women considering a career in tech or cybersecurity?
Veselina: Stay curious and reach out to people who have achieved what you aspire to. Don’t be shy—engage with professionals to validate your interests and gain insights. Networking and mentorship are invaluable, as are organizations and groups that support women in tech.
Anders: Why do you think digital identity and the work we’re doing at Omada are so important to cybersecurity today?
Veselina: As more processes become digital, securing identities is critical to mitigating risks. The increasing complexity of how we work, coupled with growing compliance requirements, highlights the importance of identity governance and administration. It’s a foundational element of cybersecurity.
Anders: Are there any trends in the digital identity space worth mentioning?
Veselina: Generative AI is a significant trend. It offers opportunities to enhance IGA and make processes smarter and more efficient.
Anders: What role do you think women play in contributing to innovation and growth in this space?
Veselina: Women bring diverse perspectives, which are vital for innovation. The digital identity space is an exciting field with immense potential for growth, making it a great area for women to explore and contribute to.
Anders: Veselina, it’s been great talking to you and learning about your journey and insights. Any final words before we conclude?
Veselina: Thank you, Anders. I’d like to highlight Omada’s culture of diversity and support. It’s a rewarding environment that values growth and flexibility, enabling employees to balance their careers with personal lives. I’m grateful to be part of such an organization.
Anders: That’s wonderful to hear. Are you doing anything special for International Women’s Day?
Veselina: I’ll probably get together with some female friends to celebrate. It’s a tradition I’ve kept for years.
Anders: That sounds great! Thank you so much, Veselina, for your time and insights.
Veselina: Thank you, Anders.
Veselina’s journey highlights the incredible contributions women bring to the tech industry, especially in the field of cybersecurity and digital identity. Her insights underscore the importance of fostering curiosity, embracing the inclusion of women in tech, and creating a supportive workplaces that empower women to excel. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, Veselina’s story serves as a reminder of how diverse perspectives and continuous learning drive innovation, not just in technology but across all industries.
Let Veselina’s story inspire us to advocate for diversity, mentor aspiring women in tech, and work together to create a more inclusive industry. Whether through networking, mentorship, or fostering curiosity, we can all contribute to empowering the next generation of women in technology
