A global contest for private security professionals attracted entries from Singapore to Sweden, uncovering a diverse set of reasons for why people work in the industry, notably the chance to positively contribute to society and to enjoy new challenges and opportunities. The contest, held by the International Security Ligue in conjunction with the International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO), asked security professionals to share online what they enjoy about their work, with cash and other prizes awarded for the most persuasive and creative posts. Ma. Pauline Rillera, a security trainer from the Philippines, was selected by a panel of judges to receive the top prize of $500 (USD).

"Many people may have an outdated notion about private security jobs or are unsure what a career in the industry is like, so we wanted the people who know best to share their experience with others,” explained Stefan Huber, Director General of the International Security Ligue. “We received entries from around the world and one common theme we found is that people love performing meaningful work in a dynamic industry.”

Pauline Rillera, APP, CPO, CST, who started her security careers an analyst and now works as a security trainer, says she was motivated to enter the contest to share the message that security is the foundation of society and offers exciting careers.

“Every day I encounter something new, that is why I chose this field. At the end of the day, it is important that we enjoy our jobs.” — Pauline Rillera, Security Trainer and Grand Prize Winner of the "Why Security?" Contest

Rilera also encouraged more women to explore job opportunities in the security career. “I would 100 percent recommend it,” she said.

Worldwide, there is tremendous opportunity in the private security industry, as the need for people continues to grow alongside demand for more technical skills. “Individuals working in security find it rewarding and interesting, and that is something we were happy to showcase with the “Why Security?” contest,” Huber explained. In addition to the top prize, two runners-up received $100 gift cards and honorable mention recipients will be offered a free year membership to the IFPO.

Meet our Grand Prize Winner in an interview with the Ligue's Director General at the Ligue's YouTube channel.