Editor’s note: ISACA’s Career Catalyst Stories showcase how members have been supported by ISACA throughout all stages of their careers. Today, we profile Melanie Wijeratna, CISM. Find out more about ISACA membership here.
Before Melanie Wijeratna’s father passed away in 2019, he left her with words of encouragement, imploring her to live her life with vigor. No more holding back.
That impassioned appeal was grounded in his own life experience. It was her father’s sheer determination, Wijeratna says, that allowed him to overcome poverty and set his family up a better life. His thirst for education also loomed large; he earned three degrees in three different countries, including a teaching degree, that enabled the family to live internationally – in Nigeria, the United States and Canada, where Wijeratna currently resides in Toronto.
As Melanie advances her career in cybersecurity, the life that her father led remains a driving motivator.
“Ultimately, my story is about resilience, long-term commitment, and values – lessons passed down from my father and applied to my own journey,” Melanie said. “His legacy lives on in the way I approach my career, my business and my life.”
That also extends to her enthusiasm for lifelong learning, which made ISACA a natural fit.
Melanie and ISACA: early career
Just like her father, Melanie earned three university degrees, eventually setting her sights on a career in cybersecurity. And as was the case with her father, her resilience would be tested.
Melanie’s journey with ISACA began in 2022, when she was in touch with a headhunter on LinkedIn regarding a cybersecurity role requiring the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) designation. The opportunity piqued Melanie’s interest and highlighted the significance of the CISM in advancing her career.
At the time, she was pursuing a cybersecurity certificate through a local continuing studies program. When Melanie asked her professor about the CISM, he promoted its value and the role ISACA plays in professional development. This inspired Melanie to pursue not just a certificate but a globally recognized designation.
“I recognized the importance of obtaining the CISM certification,” Melanie said. “However, that journey tested my resilience—I failed the exam multiple times. But, taking a sabbatical to focus on passing the CISM was one of the best career decisions I’ve made. Achieving that certification wasn’t just a professional milestone; it was a testament to my long-term focus and resilience. And to my father’s legacy.”
The CISM credential helped Melanie secure a senior role in cybersecurity that she said “aligned perfectly with my career goals.” She called attaining the credential a turning point in her career.
What’s happening now?
Wijeratna specializes in cybersecurity awareness training and change management.
“What appeals to me most about my current work is the unique blend of cybersecurity and organizational change management,” she said. “It’s about more than just implementing technical solutions; it’s about understanding the human element, driving adoption, and creating sustainable changes that enhance security while aligning with an organization’s culture and goals. That combination of technical rigor and strategic influence is both challenging and incredibly rewarding.”
Beyond her professional role, Melanie is active in ISACA’s Mentorship Program – a program that she says has been influential in her progression. The program matched her with mentors who provided valued guidance on her career path and “whose guidance and complementary personalities were exactly what I needed to succeed,” she said.
“I’ve always sought out guidance, knowing the value of learning from others,” Melanie said. “Working with mentors through ISACA has been crucial in helping me refine my cybersecurity expertise, set long-term goals and ensure that I remain true to my values.”
What’s next for Melanie?
In the coming years, Melanie will prioritize gaining deeper technical expertise in the security realm, including pursuing additional industry credentials.
ISACA will remain a key source of support as her career unfolds.
“I plan to continue engaging with ISACA through advanced learning opportunities, webinars and professional networking events to stay updated with industry trends and further develop my leadership skills in cybersecurity,” she said.
And as she continues making strides in her career, the lessons imparted by her father will remain top of mind.
“His journey of pursuing education across multiple countries, earning three degrees, and lifting our family to new opportunities through sheer hard work inspires me every day,” Melanie said. “Just as he overcame significant odds to create a better future, I strive to honor that legacy in my own career.
“I dedicate my ISACA achievements to him. He would have been so proud.”
