Beyond the Screen: How a Deaf Cyber Security Expert is Hacking Barriers and Reinventing Success!

At InSignLanguage, we are extremely passionate about sharing stories of resilience, accessibility, and professional journeys that inspire change and impact. In each episode of our podcast, we invite guests from diverse fields to talk about their careers, the barriers they’ve faced, and how accessibility and inclusion shape their everyday experiences.

In the first podcast, our host Lamin sat down with Joseph Gwynne-Jones, a Deaf Cyber Security Consultant whose career path reveals both the challenges he experiences and the unique strengths that he brings as a Deaf professional to his role.

Career Change to Cyber Security

Joseph’s story didn’t begin in cyber security. He initially worked as a systems operator, but soon realised the role wasn’t fulfilling. This decision led him to apply at a university, where he studied Computer Security. His passion for the field quickly grew, and within a short time, he secured his first role in cyber security. Ten years later, he’s still thriving in the industry.

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Working from Home: A Double-Edged Sword

Like many professionals, Joseph’s working life shifted dramatically during the 2020 pandemic. His company closed its offices and transitioned to permanent home working. While the change saved commuting costs and reduced stress, it also transformed how communication occurred between colleagues.

At home, Joseph found fewer barriers compared to office life, where informal chats and shared jokes often excluded him Remote work, by contrast, has allowed Joseph to focus on the job itself, relying more on digital tools than on spoken exchanges.

Navigating the Communication Challenges

Even with a visual-first mindset and a role that relies on text and code, Joseph faces significant communication barriers. A recurring challenge Joseph faces is the access to interpreters. Many clients, especially those handling sensitive data, refuse to allow third parties in meetings for security reasons. As a result, Joseph often relies on Microsoft Teams’ live captions-a tool that helps somewhat but it is not flawless.

Technical jargon creates another layer of complexity. Words like ‘firewall’ or tools like ‘Burp’ don’t always have direct British Sign Language equivalents. Joseph adapts by creating signs or using visual explanations, but interpreters unfamiliar with technical terms sometimes struggle, compelling him to “interpret the interpreter” while trying to do his job.

Accessibility Beyond the Office

The challenges extend beyond the digital world. Joseph recounted frustrating experiences at high-security buildings where he can't use an intercom and must rely on strangers to gain entry, sometimes even being accused of "breaking in." It's a humbling reminder that what is a simple act for a hearing person-pushing a button and hearing a beep can be a complex process filled with potential embarrassment and frustration for a Deaf person.

Ethical Hacking and Visual Intelligence as a Strength 

Joseph's job is not for the faint of heart. As an ethical hacker, he tests computer networks and digital systems to find vulnerabilities before malicious actors do. He's partaking on a very important role to provide reports on security systems, protecting companies from billions of dollars in losses from cybercrime. His role requires immense problem-solving skills and a unique way of thinking.

Interestingly, Joseph believes his Deaf identity is a key professional asset. He explains that while hearing people often "hear" words in their heads, his thoughts are entirely visual, a "video in my head." This visual-first approach, he contends, gives Deaf individuals a different and highly valuable perspective for problem-solving.

Conclusion & Thinking about the Future

It’s a reminder that the Deaf community can succeed across all industries and every story matters!

Joseph’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptation, and the untapped potential of diverse ways of thinking. His career in cyber security not only highlights the barriers Deaf professionals face but also showcases the unique strengths they bring to the table. It is a powerful reminder that true strength often lies in adapting and leveraging a unique perspective

At InSignLanguage, we believe stories like Joseph’s are crucial in reshaping workplaces into inclusive, accessible space for everyday life.

Joseph's final thoughts leave us with a powerful message: by celebrating and integrating our different perspectives, we don't just solve problems we build a stronger and more inclusive world.

If Joseph’s story resonated with you, make sure to tune in and follow the InSignLanguage podcast, and share it with others.

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