10143920TECgirls Cyber GuardiansClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKThe **TECgirls Cyber Guardians** program is an innovative 8-week afterschool initiative designed to empower 10-year-old girls in Cornwall by equipping them with essential cybersecurity skills while addressing the increasing complexity of the digital world. As young girls begin to engage with technology, they are particularly vulnerable to online threats, including AI-driven cyberbullying, deepfakes, and phishing attacks. Additionally, the societal pressures regarding body image and social manipulation, amplified by AI technologies, pose significant challenges to their mental health. This program fills a crucial gap in existing educational offerings by specifically targeting the needs of younger girls, a demographic often overlooked in current cybersecurity initiatives, which tend to focus on older students. Unlike traditional one-off programs or classroom-based efforts, the **Cyber Guardians Club** provides a sustained learning environment where girls can engage over several weeks, fostering relationships and enhancing their understanding of cybersecurity concepts. The curriculum is structured around weekly themes, each focusing on different aspects of cybersecurity and AI. Activities are designed to be interactive and hands-on, allowing girls to apply learning in real-world contexts. For example, one week may involve identifying phishing attempts, while another might focus on critically analyzing deepfake media. This approach not only builds practical skills but also grounds the conversation in the girls' everyday experiences, helping them navigate online spaces confidently. A unique feature of the program is its emphasis on role models and leadership. Girls will engage with UK-based female role models in cybersecurity who will share their career journeys and demonstrate the relevance of the field. By the end of the program, girls will not only gain technical expertise but also become **TECgirls Mentors**, returning to their schools as advocates for online safety and leaders among their peers. In addition to empowering the girls, the program provides significant value to schools and teachers. By offering training on how to teach cybersecurity concepts and highlighting the career opportunities within this field, we aim to raise awareness among educators about the importance of cybersecurity education for all students, particularly girls. Ultimately, the **TECgirls Cyber Guardians** initiative is a proactive response to the pressing need for more female representation in cybersecurity, fostering a new generation of empowered young women who are prepared to face the challenges of an AI-driven future. By creating a supportive and engaging learning environment, we are not only addressing immediate threats but also inspiring long-term career pathways in technology for girls in Cornwall.