Order of Canada recipient wants to keep everyone cyber-safe

TORONTO:

When Claudette McGowan, a visionary leader in information technology, got the call that she was appointed to the Order of Canada, she was very surprised.

“I immediately went into cyber investigator mode and started asking questions that begin with who, what, when, why and how? Once it all sunk in, the thing I felt the most was immense gratitude,” said the founder and CEO of Protexxa, a Canadian-based cybersecurity company with international reach.

McGowan, who is from Aurora, Ontario, is an advocate for women and for the promotion of digital human rights within the technology industry and, more broadly, across global communities.

She said when one of her technology colleagues learned about her appointment she started to cry.

“When I asked about her reaction, she said, Things like this don’t happen for people like us.’

The Order of Canada recognition means a lot because it showcases that contributions in fields like cybersecurity, digital resilience and inclusive innovation are not only necessary, but nationally vital,” said McGowan, who was born in Canada to Jamaican parents.

The Order of Canada is how the country honours people who have made extraordinary contributions to Canada. Presented by the governor general, it recognises outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation.

“My mother is one of my biggest supporters and she is proud beyond words. I know my deceased father would be just as proud and sharing the news with anyone in earshot. Like many parents, they encountered countless challenges, made difficult sacrifices, and through it all, they encouraged us to aim high and be resilient in all seasons.”

“Having genuine curiosity and concern for others is something that has helped me tremendously. In the tech world, applying care to the platforms we build and the people we empower has lasting impacts.

“In life, I find engaging with people, learning about their journey and finding common ground has helped me build relationships I never imagined possible.

The global information technology leader has more than 20 years of success leading digital transformations, optimising infrastructure and designing new approaches that improve service and cybersecurity experiences. She has worked in the technology industry for several organisations such as Deloitte, Metropolitan Police Services, North York General Hospital, Bank of Montreal and TD Bank.

She is the founder of the Black Arts & Innovation Expo, and chair of the Coalition of Innovation Leaders Against Racism (CILAR), a group of senior business leaders committed to creating platforms that break down systemic barriers within the innovation economy. McGowan recently co-led the launch of Phoenix Fire & The Firehood, a multi-million-dollar women-focused angel fund and network for women in technology.

Her community involvement includes sitting on the boards of leading organizations such as Air Canada, MaRS Discovery District, SickKids Hospital Foundation, BlackNorth, CILAR, Elevate Technology Festival, University of New Brunswick Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity, and the U.S. Consul General of Toronto U.S.-Canada Innovation Council.

McGowan holds a BA from Lakehead University, MBA from Athabasca University, an honorary Doctor of Laws from Carleton University, and she is currently in the Computer Science PhD programme at Toronto Metropolitan University.

The recipient of the Vice Chancellor’s Award at the UWI Toronto Awards in 2024 also writes books for children.

Asked what keeps her inspired, McGowan said her family, friends and mission inspire and energize her to keep going.

“I’m exceptionally grateful to my husband and kids for consistently supporting me and the things I believe in. Their openness to having cyber conversations at the dinner table is deeply appreciated. Now that’s love.

“They know that I envision a world where people are connected and protected. With 5 billion people online, cybersecurity needs to be personalized and prioritized. It’s rewarding to engage people of all ages to elevate their cyber hygiene and digital confidence.

She is committed to keep working toward a future where everyone is more connected and cyber-safe.