Niel Harper, a foreign-based Barbadian executive, is the 2021 recipient of the Technology for Humanity Award.
The globally recognised technology and cybersecurity expert was awarded by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) “for contributions to capacity building across the world towards the development of affordable, open and user-centric Internet infrastructure”.
“Niel is the first recipient of this new award, which is among our highest honours. This award recognises an individual whose efforts in connecting with underserved communities or underrepresented individuals has helped bridge the digital divide. We are inspired by his accomplishments, and we are thrilled to recognise his efforts,” remarked David Samuelson, CEO of ISACA.
Over the last ten years, Harper trained more than 75 000 people and advised governments, corporations and international organisations on technology, policy, regulations and business strategy in support of deploying Internet infrastructure in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean and Europe. His work has directly contributed to millions of individuals in developing countries gaining access to the Internet and participating in the global digital economy.
Harper has leadership and consulting experience in over 20 countries with organisations such as the African Union, AT&T, Bemol, Bermuda Commercial Bank, Canonical, CARICOM Secretariat, CIBC FirstCaribbean, European Union, Internet Society, United Nations, and the World Economic Forum, among others. He was born and raised in Deacons Farm, St Michael and received his formal education in Barbados at Wesley Hall Primary, Queen’s College and the University of the West Indies (Cave Hill).
He completed his undergraduate and postgraduate education at Algonquin College (Canada), University of Strathclyde (UK), University of Leicester (UK), University of Oxford (UK), Florida International University (USA) and Nanyang Technological University (Singapore).
ISACA, founded in 1969, is a global organisation that serves more than 180 000 constituents (members and professionals holding ISACA certifications) in more than 180 countries. The job titles of members are such as IS auditor, consultant, educator, IS security professional, regulator, chief information officer, chief information security officer and internal auditor. (PR)
