For Jolie Grace Wareham, CEO of Protasec, a cyber and information security firm with both a national and global reach, happiness is defined by freedom—the freedom of her mind to explore, to travel, to pursue passions, and to serve others in meaningful ways. Her life’s work is deeply rooted in curiosity and a desire to protect and empower, and she believes the key to success is simple yet profound: follow your passion.
Jolie has built her career in the high-stakes world of cybersecurity, where leadership and vision are essential, but her roots are equally tied to the arts. A skilled upright bass player, she loves connecting with Nashville’s vibrant art scene and often spends her downtime exploring craft breweries, enjoying the creativity and community that thrive in Music City. Her favorite artist is Don Williams, whose voice and storytelling style embody the soulfulness she carries into her work.
When it comes to finding your path, Jolie believes your life will tell you where to go if you’re willing to listen. “Your passions and next steps will reveal themselves to you in different ways,” she says. “When you follow them, you’ll serve the world in the most authentic and meaningful way possible.”
Her heroes are her siblings, who have always been each other’s greatest cheerleaders, and she draws inspiration from women like Jonna Mendez, the former CIA Chief of Disguise, who opened doors for countless women in government service through her pioneering work. Jolie’s admiration for trailblazing women reflects her own commitment to breaking barriers and leading with courage.
If she could offer advice to her younger self, Jolie would remind her to hold tightly to that sparkle and sense of possibility. “Life will try to tarnish you or put you in a box,” she says. “Find people who give you hope, and be hope for others. Do something good for someone every chance you get.”
Jolie’s story is one of vision, service, and relentless curiosity—a reminder that leadership isn’t just about strategy or security; it’s about staying true to yourself, building community, and using your passions to create a better world.
