AFCEAN of the Month, September 2026
Annika Harpering plays a key role in shaping the AFCEA Bonn E.V. Chapter through two key initiatives. She has led the highly successful Mentoring Program by supporting emerging leaders from the military, government agencies, academia and industry. In addition, she launched a Youth Outreach Initiative at the annual AFCEA Bonn E.V. Fachausstellung, which introduces high school students to the information technology (IT) and security sectors and connects them directly with industry professionals.
Within the Mentoring Program, Harpering carefully selects mentors from her extensive professional network and ensures an optimal match with each mentee’s individual goals. Her personal approach not only fosters professional and personal growth; it builds trust and reinforces collaboration between military and civilian leaders. She continuously enhances the program’s structure, ensuring its long-term success and growing influence within the AFCEA community.
Her Youth Outreach Initiative has developed into an impactful program within just three years. What began with a small group of 15 students has grown to include about 100 participants from several local schools. The program is built around individually designed tours for small student groups, giving participants the opportunity to engage directly with exhibitors, ask questions and explore areas of personal interest.
By providing early exposure to future technologies and career opportunities in the defense IT sector, Harpering inspires young people and sparks their interest in pursuing careers in this high-impact field.
Through a unique combination of leadership, expertise and personal commitment, Harpering has created sustainable impact across both initiatives. She develops future leaders, engages the next generation and strengthens the AFCEA community as a whole.
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