At The Abbey Senior School, we often reflect on the incredible achievements of our alumna, and the recent visit from Raffaella Rizzo, a 2022 graduate, serves as a reminder of the fantastic things they are able to achieve after their school journey.
Her story is one of passion, determination, and leadership – a testament to how early interests nurtured at The Abbey can blossom into successful careers. Raffaella’s path at The Abbey started in Nursery and she quickly developed a fascination with Science and Technology. Her natural curiosity led her to become a Digital Leader in Lower III and later, a Technology Officer in Upper IV.
It was during these formative years that her passion for computers began to take shape. As she explored the intricacies of technology, Raffaella developed her love for Computer Science, attending local conferences and connecting with like-minded individuals in the fields of Cybersecurity. By the time Raffaella reached Year 12, her interest in Cybersecurity had solidified. She avidly consumed books on the subject – I still remember that she recommended me the book: “The Code Book: The Secret History of Codes and Code-Breaking by Simon Singh”- and, with her characteristic enthusiasm, recommended them to her teachers and peers.
Her love for Cybersecurity was contagious, sparking conversations and inspiring those around her to dive into this critical and ever-evolving field. It was no surprise, then, that Raffaella chose to pursue a degree in Cybersecurity at the University of Warwick. Her decision was not just about academics – it was about embracing her identity as a woman in Cyber, a field where women remain significantly underrepresented. In her second year at university, she took on a leadership role as President of CyberWomen, a student-led initiative dedicated to addressing the gender gap in Cybersecurity. Under her leadership, CyberWomen aimed to empower young women and non-binary individuals to explore and excel in the world of Cybersecurity.
Raffaella’s return to The Abbey to speak with current students was nothing short of inspiring. In a lunchtime lecture held in the Lecture Theatre, she shared her experiences in Cybersecurity, shedding light on the importance of diversity in the UK’s workforce. Her message was clear: while the Cybersecurity industry is growing, women and non-binary individuals comprise only 25% of the field. Raffaella emphasised the importance of increasing that representation, noting that diversity is essential for innovation and progress.
Her passion for Cybersecurity was palpable, and she left her audience not only well-informed but motivated. Raffaella’s presentation resonated with all who attended, underscoring the importance of being inquisitive, sceptical, and above all, brave. She urged students to embrace challenges, explore new avenues, and not be afraid to stand out – qualities she herself has exemplified throughout her journey.
Raffaella’s story is one that resonates deeply with the values we hold dear at The Abbey. Her passion for learning, sense of purpose, and unwavering confidence are qualities we strive to instill in all our students. It is truly inspiring to witness these values carry forward into the lives of our graduates as they navigate the world beyond school.
In Raffaella Rizzo, we see not just a successful alumna, but a role model for current students – a reminder that with passion and perseverance, one can make a meaningful impact in the world. Her journey serves as a powerful example of how The Abbey nurtures talent, curiosity, and leadership, setting the stage for future success. As Raffaella concluded her presentation, she left us all with a lasting message: “Be inquisitive, sceptical, and brave.” And in those words, we hear the voice of a true Abbey alumna, ready to lead the way in shaping the future.