and Ellen Meinhart, spotlight on how strategic partnerships and cybersecurity startups from Virginia are forging new ground in the UAE and beyond.
What happens when deep-rooted cybersecurity experience meets a region surging ahead in digital transformation? In this exclusive conversation, Anthony, founder, First Mover Advantage, and Ellen Meinhart, Senior International Trade Manager, Northern Virginia Region, International Trade Virginia Economic Development Partnership, share with Tahawultech.com their perspectives on why the Middle East—particularly the UAE—is becoming a magnet for American cybersecurity innovation. From mentoring startups at GISEC to reflecting on the UAE’s evolution into a global cyber hub, they shed light on talent gaps, strategic growth, and the power of long-standing relationships in a channel-driven market.
Interview Excerpts:
How did First Mover Advantage come into being, and what role will it play in the Middle East moving forward?
Anthony: About two years ago, I stepped back from work and took a year and a half off. During that time, I stayed busy—learning to read and play music, doing community gardening, and charity work. But eventually, I realized I wasn’t ready to retire. I had decades of experience, a great network, and expertise, especially in helping North American cybersecurity startups grow internationally. So I decided to package that into a service: First Mover Advantage. My goal is to help cybersecurity companies expand globally, particularly in the Middle East—a region I know well. I don’t want to work full-time or for anyone; I want to work with exciting people and projects. We’ve brought six Virginia-based cybersecurity startups to GISEC this year, and I’m here to guide them, advising them on business practices, connecting them with the right partners, and helping them navigate the channel-centric and relationship-driven nature of this market.
How have you seen the UAE evolve over the years, especially in terms of cybersecurity and digital transformation?
Anthony: I was at the first ever GISEC in 2012 with Sourcefire. It was a small gathering back then. Today, it’s bigger than some of the leading European cybersecurity expos. Dubai has grown into a major global hub—not just for trade, finance, and tourism—but now also for cybersecurity. It draws talent and companies from India, Africa, and Europe, aligning perfectly with the UAE’s vision to be a global gateway and digital powerhouse.
What drove Virginia’s decision to participate in GISEC, and how do you see the region as part of Virginia’s long-term strategy?
Ellen: GISEC came highly recommended by other Virginia-based cybersecurity companies. This is our first time exhibiting here, although we’ve been to Infosecurity Europe in London several times. The Middle East, particularly the UAE, is very attractive due to its commitment to becoming a cybersecurity leader. The region is investing in talent and technology and is positioning itself like the Silicon Valley of cybersecurity. That’s appealing to Virginia companies.
“We brought six companies to GISEC, and they’ve all had strong interest and engagement from potential partners and clients.”
Is there a cybersecurity skills gap in the Middle East, and how can it be addressed?
Ellen: There’s a global cybersecurity skills gap, not just in the Middle East. Even in Virginia—which has the highest number of cybersecurity workers in the U.S.—many roles remain unfilled. We brought companies like Cyber Guru and ISC2 to GISEC because they focus on cybersecurity training and certifications. Building a skilled workforce is critical everywhere, and these companies help train individuals who want to enter the field. The Middle East’s focus on developing local talent is impressive and timely.
What are your personal reflections as a woman in the cybersecurity space, and how can more women be encouraged to enter this field?
Ellen: I’d love to see more women in cybersecurity. My daughter is a programmer, but cybersecurity is different—it’s more like strategic problem-solving or counterattack planning. It’s exciting and dynamic, and it offers opportunities in sales, tech, and marketing. The key is awareness. Once women understand the scope and possibilities, more will be drawn to the field. I believe events like the women’s breakfast at GISEC help raise that awareness, and I hope to see continued progress.
