Christina Tueje, one of our esteemed Judges asked Ivana Bartoletti a few questions about her dedication to the PICCASO community and her accomplishments since receiving her PICCASO award in 2022.
Celebrating Excellence in Privacy and Human Rights and a Commitment to Inspire Others!
Meet Ivana, Privacy Leader of the Year: Technology in 2022 and proud PICCASO Awards alumus.
Ivana shares her incredible journey as an award-winning privacy leader,whose unwavering passion for privacy and human rights has set a remarkable standard in our profession. This recognition is not just a testament to her dedication but also a celebration of her commitment to inspire, support, and mentor others in the field.
In an era where AI and innovation are transforming our world, this privacy leader has demonstrated that privacy and technology can indeed work in harmony.
Her relentless pursuit of AI upskilling and leadership within her privacy team has paved the way for a future where privacy is not compromised but enhanced by technological advancements.
The PICCASO awards process has been a fantastic platform to elevate andamplify the privacy profession, showcasing the importance of human-centred privacy practices. This recognition fills Ivana with immense pride and joy, reflecting her deep commitment to protecting individuals' rights and fostering a culture of trust and respect.
For Ivana the PICCASO awards process encouraged her to reflect on her own career and professional development journey, embrace the spirit of continuous learning, and strive to be a leader who inspires and uplifts others.
She is passionate about creating a future where privacy and innovation go hand in hand, ensuring a safer and more equitable world for all.
How has your approach to the idustry evolved over the course of your career?
Ivana: I was initially drawn to the world of privacy through my interests in human rights law and information governance. I believe that privacy represents a vital collective value; data is immensely important, and this is why it's essential that we handle it with care and respect. For me, privacy embodies principles of autonomy, equity, and protection from manipulation, all of which are increasingly crucial in our AI driven age.
Did your award win prompt you to reflect on your career journey, your professional growth, your values or how the privacy profession continues to evolve?
Ivana: Absolutely, receiving the award encouraged me to reflect deeply on my career journey and professional growth. In an era where AI is increasingly important, we must push the boundaries between the law and technology. Privacy professionals face unique challenges and responsibilities.
We’ve navigated creating global governance programmes before, particularly with the implementation of GDPR, and it's clear that many harms related to AI are, at their core, privacy-related issues. This recognition has motivated me to focus on upskilling my team, ensuring we're well-equipped to address the fast-paced changes in technology and to uphold our commitment to privacy in this evolving landscape.
Have you received invitations to speak, mentor, or contribute to policy discussions because of receiving the PICCASO award?
Ivana: Receiving recognition is important. Stepping out of the comfort zone and sharing the recognition has been a rewarding experience. However, the most fulfilling aspect has been the opportunity to inspire others. I have truly enjoyed engaging with individuals who have reached out for advice and support, and I am committed to continuing this mentorship moving forward.
What advice would you give toothers hoping to make a meaningful impact in this space?
Ivana: I would encourage aspiring privacy professionals tofocus on the importance of collaboration in making a meaningful impact in this field. It's essential to demonstrate that innovation and privacy are not mutually exclusive; they can complement each other. Privacy professionals can lead the way as true innovators, striving to enhance technology while safeguarding human dignity. There is significant work to be done in this space, and I urge those interested to pursue this path - now more than ever, our society needs dedicated individuals who are committed to balancing progress with privacy. Your efforts can truly shape the future.
Why do you think the PICCASO Awards matter?
Ivana: The PICCASO Awards matter! This recognition fosters pridein our field at a time when concepts like equity, fairness, and the true meaning of consent are becoming increasingly tangible for everyone. We've witnessed the impact of privacy harms firsthand, and it's clear that sustainable innovation, one that boosts productivity and efficiency, must be grounded in strong governance. Acknowledge the role of privacy professionals as essential components of a business growth strategy is crucial, and awards like this help to elevate our profession.