The Global Awards 2025 marks another meaningful chapter in our shared journey to strengthen cybersecurity capability across the world. Every year, this reminds us that progress in this industry is not shaped by technology alone. It is shaped by people. It is carried by partners who stay committed to excellence, instructors who ignite ambition in their students, and academic institutions that open doors for learners who dream of a better future. This year’s achievements reflect more than performance metrics. They represent purpose, perseverance, and the belief that cybersecurity education can change lives.
Across more than 150 countries, our partners and instructors continue to create pathways for learners to develop real world skills. Their presence in classrooms, labs, enterprises, and universities builds confidence, nurtures capability, and prepares individuals to step into a world that depends on strong digital defense. The dedication they bring to training, mentorship, and learner support is what gives this community its strength. It is also what gives our mission its meaning.
As our ecosystem grows, we continue to see contributions that go far beyond structured training delivery. Many partners champion cybersecurity in their regions, build awareness through events, collaborate with governments, and inspire learners through community engagement. These efforts deserved recognition, which is why we introduced three new award categories for the 2024 to 2025 cycle.
New Award Categories
This year, we introduced three new award categories to recognize contributions that were long overdue. These recognitions were created to acknowledge the heart, passion, and influence that many partners demonstrate beyond traditional delivery.
1) Rising Star Partner Award
Celebrates partners whose journey reflects determination and growth. These partners show that progress often begins quietly, through consistent effort and the courage to evolve.
2) Engagement Excellence Award
Recognizes partners who invest their voice, presence, and leadership into driving awareness and participation, often creating opportunities that influence entire regions.
3) Partner Ambassador Award
Honors partners who stand as true champions of EC Council. They advocate for our mission, strengthen local ecosystems, and build bridges that help learners discover their potential.
These new additions complete the awards framework by acknowledging the many ways our partners contribute to the advancement of the cybersecurity industry.
Established Award Categories
Alongside these new recognitions, our long-standing awards continue to honor excellence across training centers, academia, instructors, enterprises, and resellers.
- ATC of the Year
- Instructor of the Year
- Academia Partner of the Year
- Best Newcomer Award
- Circle of Excellence Award
- Academia Innovator Award
- Enterprise Excellence Award
- Reseller Partner Award
Each award tells a story of commitment and impact. These achievements reflect academic innovation, enterprise readiness, and the highest standards of instructional quality.
The strength of our global ecosystem lies in its people. More than 3,000 partners around the world help learners build confidence, master real world skills, and prepare for careers that keep our digital world secure. The achievements recognized this year highlight the power of collective effort and the impact created when education becomes accessible, purposeful, and guided by heart.
To every nominee and every winner, I extend my gratitude. Your work is shaping the next generation of defenders and strengthening the cybersecurity fabric of nations. Thank you for bringing your expertise, commitment, and compassion to this mission.
Jay Bavisi
Group President, EC Council
