Face-to-face relationships for stronger collaboration
Recognizing the limitations of online-only interaction, we launched the Global Cyber Tech Forum (GCTF), an event for our cybersecurity talents around the world to connect in person and learn from shared experiences. Meeting face to face, participants build the strong, trust-based relationships essential for quick, coordinated responses to cybersecurity incidents.
Our past networking events were online, but we’ve shifted to in-person gatherings that foster communication and community. When threats arise, being more than a name in an email or video chat list makes all the difference. We offer cybersecurity professionals a forum where they can best establish the bonds and the networks needed to collaboratively tackle increasingly complex threats.
Team-building without borders
A key strength of the Sompo Group is our global network that brings together cybersecurity professionals from North America, Europe, APAC, etc.
At the event, simultaneous interpretation and materials in Japanese and English break through language barriers, ensure meaningful knowledge sharing, and result in participant satisfaction.
The GCTF deepens relationships even among colleagues who work far apart. A US participant, for example, expressed appreciation at finally being able to meet colleagues from Japan, Turkey, Brazil, and elsewhere who he has been working with for a while. The connections made possible don’t arise on a daily basis and are heightening collaboration against cyberattacks.
Outcomes achieved by the Global Cyber Tech Forum
GCTF 2025 involved some 90 participants from six countries, including Japan. The agenda included hands-on skill building through activities such as capture the flag (CTF), lectures from industry experts, and panel discussions.
CTF is popular among cybersecurity professionals worldwide as a competition requiring cybersecurity knowledge and skills. Competitors solve challenges in ways that are a practical and enjoyable means of acquiring and sharpening real-world cybersecurity techniques.
The 2025 event sparked discoveries and moments of inspiration by participants of unique careers and skill sets. Feedback was positive overall, with many attendees commenting that it was a rare and valuable learning experience.
A participant from Sompo Care provided a particularly memorable comment: “I felt a strong sense of determination in everyone to safeguard our cybersecurity, and it boosted my motivation.” Clearly, the Global Cyber Tech Forum is achieving its goal.
Development of cybersecurity professionals
Risks are constantly evolving. To keep pace, cybersecurity professionals must build real-world expertise, staying abreast of the latest knowledge and skills and putting those elements into practice.
The Global Cyber Tech Forum is one vehicle to ensure the expertise of Sompo Group’s cybersecurity talents and to strengthen connections among talents. It will continue to inspire and challenge participants and to equip them to maintain the Sompo Group’s security and peace of mind.
