How one woman’s journey from international diplomacy led her to create a startup dedicated to security and safety in the digital age.
In our latest edition of Meet Our Sheroes, we’re thrilled to spotlight Sheryl Moss, a visionary entrepreneur whose journey from U.S. diplomat to tech CEO exemplifies resilience, purpose, and the power of reinvention. Dr. Alka Chopra Madan, founder of Global Women Power, sat down with Sheryl to discuss her inspiring career, her transition into the tech world, and the lessons she’s learned as a female founder in a male-dominated industry.
A Diplomat’s Journey
Before founding her security technology startup, Guardian Zone, Sheryl Moss spent 25 years as a diplomat with the U.S. Department of Commerce. During her tenure, she represented the United States in six countries, working with entrepreneurs and helping U.S. businesses enter international markets. Sheryl’s role connected her with innovators and business leaders around the world, sparking a passion for entrepreneurship and ultimately planting the seeds of her own business journey.
Reflecting on her career in diplomacy, Sheryl shared, “And so I loved my job. I loved what I did. I loved meeting, you know, entrepreneurs in other countries. I loved connecting US companies to other companies and small, small and medium markets. And so I think it was almost a natural fit,” Her career offered her a front-row seat to the risks, challenges, and incredible opportunities of the business world.
A Turning Point in Texas
In 2002, Sheryl returned to the U.S. for a domestic assignment in Dallas, Texas, where she worked with small and medium-sized businesses, including early-stage startups. It was here that a pivotal encounter with a young entrepreneur sparked something profound in her.During her time with the U.S. Department of Commerce, she worked with a young entrepreneur who, with just a cell phone and a fax machine, managed to scale his business to $1 million in sales by exporting fabric remnants.
Reflecting on her journey, Sheryl recalled a defining moment that planted the seed for her entrepreneurial aspirations. “Some of my colleagues were like, ah, you know, he’s a startup. He’s new. You know, he’s not, you know, he’s not our normal customer, where you normally work with customers, even if they were small companies, more established companies. But I started talking to him, and I found him fascinating, and so I started working with him.”
Sheryl said, “I was so impressed by him. His business had started with just a cell phone and a fax machine, and I thought to myself, how does someone go from that to a million dollars in sales?”
This experience, along with her extensive background in international business, became the foundation of Sheryl’s own entrepreneurial journey.
From the bustling streets of Beijing, China, to the vibrant cityscape of Johannesburg, South Africa, the scenic charms of Monterrey, Mexico, the historic beauty of The Hague in the Netherlands, the rich cultural landscapes of Amman, Jordan, and finally, the colorful vibrancy of Lima, Peru, Sheryl’s work connected her with entrepreneurs and companies worldwide.
“I think that seed just started to be watered,” Sheryl explained, as she continued helping U.S. companies enter international markets. Her career, filled with global experiences, provided her with insight into the challenges and triumphs of business in diverse cultures and markets. This unique exposure gradually transformed her dream of entrepreneurship into something she could no longer ignore.After 25 years of government service, Sheryl finally shared her decision with her husband. “I told him, I’d like to finally go out there and see if I can be that entrepreneur that I always wanted to be,” she shared. Her leap into the private sector was not only about achieving a personal dream but also about creating something impactful in the security technology sector.
How a Life-Changing Moment Inspired Sheryl Moss to Create Guardian Zone
In 2015, a pivotal moment reshaped Sheryl Moss’s life and entrepreneurial vision. During a regular family trip to Europe, she and her husband, who hails from the Netherlands, were planning their customary visit to Paris. Yet, that year, something happened that brought a profound shift in perspective: the tragic terrorist attack in Paris.
Reflecting on the incident, Sheryl couldn’t help but feel a chill. “My family could have been there,” she thought, as they often walked the same streets on their Paris visits. This incident raised a powerful realization for her. “Most people, if you don’t have a military or a police background, don’t know what to do in extreme circumstances,” she noted. As a former U.S. diplomat, Sheryl was used to a life where security was constantly reinforced through drills and preparedness talks. This sense of security was something she took for granted, but she realized it was not the norm for many. Inspired by this realization, Sheryl knew she wanted to create something that would enable people to feel safer and more prepared in large public spaces. This was the seed for Guardian Zone, a security technology company focused on empowering people to stay safe in crowded places.
Sheryl soon reached out to a close friend at Dell, eager to bring her vision to life but candidly admitting, “I have no idea how to even get it started.” With her friend’s connections in Austin, Texas—a vibrant hub for startups—Sheryl was introduced to people who could help her navigate the path from idea to implementation. Slowly, her journey as an entrepreneur began.
The road wasn’t easy. Sheryl acknowledges that she made her fair share of mistakes along the way, often finding herself relating to common startup pitfalls. “I think I made every mistake in the book,” she laughs, recognizing how much each misstep contributed to her growth. With persistence and a clear vision, Guardian Zone took shape, embodying her mission to make safety accessible and intuitive for everyone.
As she started Guardian Zone, her mission-driven security technology firm, she found herself navigating uncharted territory. “Helping established companies is totally different from being a startup,” she reflected, acknowledging the vast divide between guiding businesses as an advisor and building one from the ground up.
A year and a half into the development phase, after securing developers and beginning to build her product, Sheryl faced the reality of the entrepreneurial path she had chosen. While her background provided a wealth of knowledge about business, she knew that her role as CEO would demand an entirely new skill set. “What does it mean to be a CEO? What don’t I know?” she asked herself.
However, Sheryl soon recognized that her years of experience did have their own value. From managing complex international projects to understanding diverse markets and client needs, she found that many skills from her previous career translated well into the startup world. It was this mix of old knowledge and new challenges that ultimately empowered her to take Guardian Zone forward. Recognizing gaps in her understanding that no amount of government or diplomatic experience could fill, she decided it was time to learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
Determined to build her knowledge, Sheryl enrolled in founder-focused classes, surrounded herself with mentors, and began networking extensively. She also joined industry organizations like the Security Industry Association (SIA) and its Women in Security Forum. These connections were invaluable for gaining insights into the needs of the security industry and understanding both sides of the technology market.
Yet, venturing into technology and security—two male-dominated fields—presented its own set of challenges. Sheryl acknowledged the difficulties but chose to see them as growth opportunities. Guided by a deeply spiritual mindset, Sheryl believed every challenge had a purpose. “I read my Bible—I’m a Christian,” she shared. Sheryl credits much of her resilience to her faith and a passion for self-improvement. Books like The Secret and The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace Wattles served as mental anchors. These books taught her to embrace the power of belief and focus, viewing entrepreneurship as not only a professional journey but a spiritual one as well. When COVID-19 reshaped the world, Sheryl was more determined than ever. Guardian Zone’s core technology, a mobile app designed to bridge the communication gap between the public and law enforcement, became all the more critical in a time where public safety was paramount. Imagine yourself at a large event, she explained, perhaps a concert or a festival. The app empowers attendees by connecting them directly to security personnel, offering a real-time channel to report incidents or concerns, making large gatherings safer and more secure for everyone.
How Sheryl Moss’s Guardian Zone Connects People to Security in Real-Time
Imagine yourself in a stadium, a bustling shopping mall, a music festival, or even a large church gathering. In these vast spaces, unexpected events—an active shooter, a medical emergency, a lost item, or even a suspicious individual—can leave people feeling vulnerable and unsure of where to turn for help. Sheryl Moss designed Guardian Zone to bridge that gap, making it easier for individuals in large venues to connect directly with on-site security.
“People often call 911, which is essential, but what many don’t realize is that many of these facilities have security teams on the ground, ready to help. It’s just a matter of reaching them,” Sheryl explained. The Guardian Zone mobile app offers a direct line to security personnel, allowing users to get assistance in real-time while also enabling security teams to relay critical information. Whether it’s alerting the crowd to a security concern or assisting with a lost-and-found issue, Guardian Zone is making large gatherings safer, one user at a time.
“We’re proud of the traction we’re starting to get,” Sheryl added, reflecting on the company’s growth and the technology’s positive reception.
From Diplomacy to Entrepreneurship
Transitioning from a comfortable, stable job to the uncertain waters of entrepreneurship wasn’t easy, especially given the security and familiarity of her 25-year career. “Leaving that comfort zone was a huge step,” Sheryl admitted. “My husband thought I was a little crazy at first.”
In Sheryl’s own words, “Government jobs are comfortable; once you have it, you’re secure.” Leaving that comfort zone, especially at a stage in life where many would settle, was daunting. The pandemic and economic uncertainties added to the challenge. Yet, Sheryl’s commitment to her vision and the support of her network helped her push forward. She joined industry associations, connected with mentors, and continuously educated herself. “I had to learn the ABCs of being a CEO,” she shared, recalling the valuable insights she gained through founders’ classes and industry events.
Sheryl Moss’s Bold Choice Between a Secure Career in Italy and the Thrill of Entrepreneurship
For 25 years, Sheryl Moss served as a U.S. diplomat, with a rewarding and secure career in the Foreign Service. The predictability was comforting—she received her paycheck every two weeks, regardless of the economic climate. But despite her deep respect for her role, a stirring sense of purpose and desire for personal growth pushed her to make a life-altering decision. Sheryl realized that to pursue her ambition of starting her own company, Guardian Zone, she would have to step outside of her government role and into the challenging world of entrepreneurship.
At the time of her departure, Sheryl was actually on the brink of another prestigious assignment: a post in Rome, Italy. For many, this would have been a dream come true—living in one of the world’s most historic cities, with the stability of an established career and the support of her family. But Sheryl’s entrepreneurial vision was beckoning, and she wrestled with a significant choice: embark on a stable, fulfilling career in Italy or venture into the unknown world of startups, facing unpredictable challenges but with the potential for immense growth and fulfillment.
“I prayed about it a lot,” Sheryl recalls. “I wanted to be able to look back at 92 and say, I lived the life I wanted to live.” She was determined to live without regret, without wondering, “What if?” Ultimately, her vision for Guardian Zone—an app that enables individuals to reach on-site security quickly and easily in large public places—won out. The app was poised to bridge a critical gap in security communication, helping people feel safer in crowded spaces, and it was a mission she felt deeply passionate about.
The Importance of Networking on a New Level
Her journey, however, has not been without its hurdles. Sheryl found herself immersed in a world far removed from her government-to-government experience. Learning the ins and outs of entrepreneurship, she quickly realized the importance of networking on a new level—this time for her own business. She adapted by building connections in the security industry and technology sectors, joining associations and forums, and taking classes to sharpen her leadership skills. Each new experience expanded her understanding of what it truly means to lead a company.
Despite facing fears and uncertainty, Sheryl credits her faith for her resilience. “I feel that God has given me indications along the way that this is where I’m supposed to be,” she reflects. Though the journey hasn’t been easy, it’s been deeply fulfilling. Looking back, she appreciates the richness of her previous career and now feels equally passionate about her role as an entrepreneur.
Sheryl Moss spent decades as a dedicated U.S. Foreign Service officer, helping American companies expand globally. Her role was to encourage these businesses to export and invest internationally, often assessing their level of commitment. When she encountered companies hesitant to invest, she sometimes questioned their dedication. However, the moment she began her own entrepreneurial journey with Guardian Zone, her perspective shifted dramatically.
Every Dollar Counts: The Value of Strategic Investment
Starting her own business made her acutely aware of the very challenges she had once observed in others. Suddenly, she understood the critical importance of every dollar spent. Each investment decision, big or small, became a question of return on investment—realizing that every dollar spent could be crucial to the future of her business. “It’s not, hey, it’s just $500,” she reflects. “It’s $500—what’s my return on investment for that $500? Because that $500 can be working for something else for my company.” This realization not only enriched her entrepreneurial approach but also enhanced her empathy for the companies she once guided in her government role.
Interestingly, Sheryl believes that this new perspective made her a better officer during her final year in government service. She could now fully relate to the concerns of her clients, seeing business decisions through the lens of an entrepreneur who knows the weight each choice carries.
But stepping into the entrepreneurial world wasn’t without its emotional and mental challenges. “There are days, as all entrepreneurs have,” Sheryl shares, “when I spend more days praying than working.” Her faith has been a steadfast source of strength, providing solace and encouragement during moments of doubt.
Reflecting on her journey, Sheryl Moss feels an undeniable sense of growth and accomplishment. Transitioning from a government role to becoming an entrepreneur in the security technology field has taught her invaluable skills she couldn’t have gained otherwise. She says, “The skills I’ve acquired, I never would have had… I think it has made me a better person.” Her decision to pursue this path, despite its uncertainties, brought new knowledge, resilience, and self-discovery.
How Guardian Zone Works and What Sets It Apart
Guardian Zone is an app-based solution designed to improve security and communication in large venues such as corporate campuses, universities, churches, and event spaces. Currently available on both the Apple Store and Google Play, the app works by connecting users directly with the facility’s security team whenever they are within the venue’s geofenced area. Once a venue has installed Guardian Zone, visitors, staff, and customers can download the app and will be automatically connected to the facility’s security system upon entering the geofenced area. In an emergency—whether it’s a medical situation, security threat, or any other incident—users can simply press an alert button in the app, which sends their location, first name, last name, and phone number to security.
What gives Guardian Zone an edge over competitors is its “agnostic” approach. Unlike other solutions where users may need multiple apps for different venues, Guardian Zone’s design ensures that a single app works across multiple facilities. For example, if Guardian Zone is installed at two universities, students don’t need separate apps for each one. The app automatically connects to security when they enter any facility with a Guardian Zone setup, making it convenient for users who move between different locations protected by the technology.
Guardian Zone’s innovative approach to geofencing and automatic engagement makes it a versatile and efficient tool, setting it apart in the competitive landscape of security solutions.
Sherly’s Journey as a Woman CEO in the Male-Dominated Security Tech Industry
Sherly, a determined entrepreneur in the security technology industry, has navigated numerous challenges as a woman CEO in a field where women, especially women of color, are a rarity. She recalls how her initial steps were cautious, as she balanced her final year in a government role with her early days building her company, Guardian Zone. This safety app, available on both Apple and Google stores, is designed to enhance security within specific facilities, allowing users to connect seamlessly with on-site security when within a designated geofenced area.
Breaking into this male-dominated industry came with its hurdles. Sherly faced instances where people doubted her CEO status, particularly in security-focused settings. Reflecting on her experience, she shared, “Many times, people assumed I wasn’t the CEO. I’d go to meetings or events and have to assert my position.” But Sherly also credits the support of mentors and her family, particularly her husband, whose faith in her abilities has been a source of strength.
How the U.S. Department of Commerce Supports Small Businesses in Expanding Internationally
Sherly goes on to explain the invaluable role of the U.S. Department of Commerce in helping small and medium-sized businesses navigate international markets. She describes the department’s Export Assistance Centers, which are located in nearly every state and help companies get “export ready.” She emphasizes that businesses with a proven track record, whether in consumer goods or technology, can benefit from the government’s support in finding international markets for their products.
Through the Export Assistance Centers, companies are paired with trade specialists who help identify global opportunities. Sherly shares a unique example: even a niche product, such as cattle, can find international buyers. The Department of Commerce provides in-depth market research, advising entrepreneurs on the best international markets for their products. The goal is to connect businesses to countries where their product might not only have a demand but also be in less saturated markets.
Sherly highlights one of the flagship products offered by the Department of Commerce—the Gold Key program—which connects entrepreneurs to potential overseas buyers. Once companies are vetted, the department sets up one-on-one meetings in foreign markets. The U.S. government assists by arranging travel, accommodation, and even translation services, ensuring that entrepreneurs can focus on growing their international presence. Sherly notes that many small businesses don’t realize the extent of support available, encouraging entrepreneurs to take advantage of these resources to expand their global reach.
Sherly shares some insights about the support available for women-owned businesses through the U.S. Department of Commerce. While there are no specific quotas for women-owned businesses, she explains that the department has always recognized the importance of supporting women, minority-owned, and rural businesses. These businesses are often eligible for discounted services, such as reduced fees for some of the resources provided by the department. However, since Sherly left the department two years ago, she suggests that entrepreneurs connect with local trade specialists to get the most current information on available resources.
Building a Strong U.S. Foundation: Sherly’s Strategy for Taking Guardian Zone Global
When asked about her goals for expanding her business, Sherly expresses her ambition to grow internationally. She believes that before venturing into global markets, it’s essential to establish a solid foundation in the U.S. first. She reflects on her experience with the government, where she learned that international clients prefer to see a strong U.S. presence before they’re willing to trust new products. Once Guardian Zone gains more traction within the U.S., Sherly plans to take her security technology overseas, leveraging the relationships she built during her time at the U.S. Department of Commerce.
In the journey from diplomat to tech entrepreneur, Sheryl Moss has shown that with courage and a deep sense of purpose, it’s possible to turn a vision into reality—even in an industry where women, especially women of color, are a rarity. Her dedication to creating safer public spaces through Guardian Zone reflects her commitment to empowering individuals with tools for greater security. Sheryl’s story serves as a powerful reminder that stepping out of a comfort zone and embracing the challenges of entrepreneurship can lead not only to personal growth but also to impactful innovations.
Beyond personal growth, Sheryl’s venture into the security industry carries a strong sense of purpose. As a minority entrepreneur in a field that often intersects with complex social issues, she’s aware of the challenges faced by communities in their interactions with law enforcement. “We need our law enforcement… When there’s a problem, do things need to be changed? Sure… but we need to support that relationship.” Her Guardian Zone technology aims to bridge communication between the public and security personnel, fostering a safer and more understanding environment.
Sheryl’s story exemplifies how entrepreneurship can be both challenging and deeply rewarding. Now, she actively shares her experiences with aspiring entrepreneurs, urging them to learn from her journey while understanding that mistakes and setbacks are part of the process. She encourages them to “pick themselves up” and keep pursuing their goals, emphasizing resilience as a key to success.
For more inspiring stories like Sheryl’s, stay tuned to Global Women Power’s Meet Our Sheroes series, where we highlight women leaders who are making a difference in their fields.
