We have always believed that talent knows no borders and this year, our students proved it on one of the biggest technical stages in the world.

We are incredibly proud to announce that SheCodesToo finished 14th place out of 131 competing teams in the first-ever EMEA Cisco Networking Academy Cup Capture the Flag Grand Final - placing among the top 24 teams across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and CIS.

A Partnership Built on Purpose

This journey would not have been possible without the foundation we built together with Cisco Networking Academy. Last year, She Codes Too became an official Cisco Networking Academy, a milestone that marked a new chapter in our mission to equip young people in Iraq with world-class technical skills.

Since becoming a Cisco Academy, we have been able to offer our students access to globally recognised courses, internationally accredited certifications, and now - a pathway to compete on the world stage.

The Competition: What Was the Cisco NetAcad Cup?

The 2026 EMEA Cisco Networking Academy Cup, developed in partnership with Real Madrid, was designed to challenge participants across three core areas: networking fundamentals and advanced configurations, cybersecurity concepts and threat analysis, and real-world, case-based problem-solving, including challenges inspired by the digital transformation of the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

Participants must solve a series of complex technical missions as quickly and accurately as possible, requiring not just knowledge, but strategy, speed, and composure under pressure.

By the time the Grand Final concluded on April 17, 2026, there were:

• 100,000+ learners participated globally

• 72 countries represented across EMEA and CIS

• 500+ educators supporting teams worldwide

• 131 teams competed in the Grand Final

• Only 24 teams reached the final stage

Our Journey: Stage by Stage

Phase 1: Learn‑A‑Thon (October 2025)

The journey began in October 2025, with nearly 200 learners from She Codes Too joining the Cisco Networking Academy Learn‑A‑Thon. After completing CCST Networking courses and labs, She Codes Too ranked 2nd in Iraq, qualifying among the Top 3 academies nationally.

Phase 2: EMEA Regional League (April 16, 2026)

A four‑member team was selected to represent She Codes Too in the EMEA regional Capture the Flag challenge. Competing as IRAQ#SheCodesToo, the team secured 2nd place in the MENA region, advancing to the Grand Final.

Phase 3: EMEA Grand Final (April 17, 2026)

The top 24 teams in EMEA competed in a high‑pressure CTF final. Out of 131 teams, IRAQ#SheCodesToo placed 14th, ranking among the region’s leading technical teams.

Recognition and Awards

As a result of their achievement, the team will receive:

• 🏆 Cisco Prize Kit: including Cisco x Real Madrid merchandise

• 📜 Certificate of Participation from Cisco Networking Academy and SheCodesToo

More than the prizes, this experience has given our students something invaluable: the confidence that comes from competing at the highest level and knowing they belong there.

Thank You

To our team of four, you made us proud. To the instructors, for your dedication at every step. To all the participants who took part in the competition, and to Cisco Networking Academy - thank you for a partnership that really opens doors.