Kemba Walden is a visionary leader and trailblazer in the world of cybersecurity. With extensive experience spanning the highest levels of government and the private sector, Kemba has dedicated her career to safeguarding critical infrastructure and advancing the security of our interconnected world. As the Acting United States National Cyber Director in 2023, she shaped groundbreaking national cybersecurity policies and fostered collaboration between the public and private sectors to counter increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Today, she serves as president of the Paladin Global Institute, where she champions global safety online through research, advocacy, and cross-sector innovation.
Beyond her leadership roles, Kemba is a sought-after speaker, adjunct professor at Georgetown University, and active member of influential organizations, including the Council on Foreign Relations and the Aspen Digital U.S. Cybersecurity Group. Her career includes critical contributions as a cybersecurity legal advisor at the Department of Homeland Security, as well as at Microsoft, where she helped secure the 2020 election cycle. With a Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center and a unique ability to demystify complex cyber challenges, Kemba inspires leaders to proactively strengthen their organizations and prepare for the evolving cyber landscape.