In Focus: David Evans - Founder of TiNYg and Champion of Global Security Collaboration

A Leader Who Connects People, Not Just Organisations

There are figures in the security profession who influence policy, others who advance technology, and those who shape the strategic direction of the industry. But there are very few who bring people together in a way that genuinely strengthens collective security. David Evans, founder of the Global Terrorism Information Group, better known as TiNYg, belongs firmly in that category. For more than a decade, he has driven a global community built on openness, trust and the belief that better communication leads to a safer world.

How TiNYg Began

TiNYg’s origin story is deeply personal to David. With a career rooted in policing, counter-terrorism liaison and corporate security, he saw first-hand how isolated both public and private organisations could become when managing risk. Agencies, consultancies and multinational companies were often facing similar challenges but lacked a common platform to share insights. David recognised that effective security demanded collaboration across borders, sectors and professional disciplines. From that realisation, TiNYg took shape.

Although the group began in New York, its purpose was global from the outset. The aim was never to create a commercial vehicle or a subscription-based network. Instead, TiNYg was established as an accessible, not-for-profit platform driven by the principle that information sharing saves lives. David was clear that TiNYg events should remain open and free to attend, ensuring that organisations of every size could benefit from the knowledge shared. That ethos still defines the network today.

Building an International Advisory Board

As TiNYg grew, David strengthened its structure by forming an International Advisory Board comprised of senior figures from policing, the military, intelligence services and corporate security leadership. Many hold, or previously held, influential roles in major global organisations, bringing extensive operational and strategic experience to the network. This range of perspectives enables TiNYg to deliver insight that is both practical and commercially relevant, reinforcing its commitment to effective public-private partnership.

This collaborative approach has also shaped TiNYg’s long-standing relationships with respected associations including ASIS International, OSAC and global threat-intelligence bodies. Working with these organisations has helped TiNYg align with international best practice while maintaining its unique, practitioner-led style of knowledge exchange.

Supporting Professional Standards Through Education

A powerful yet sometimes overlooked aspect of TiNYg’s work is its collaboration with internationally recognised educational authorities to support accredited counter-terrorism qualifications. These programmes help raise professional standards, reinforce competency across the industry and ensure practitioners at every level have access to training that reflects the realities of today’s threats. By contributing expertise and helping shape curriculum content, TiNYg continues to make high-quality education available to those who need it, not only those who can afford it.

A Community Built on Openness

Over the past decade, TiNYg has delivered a wide range of highly regarded events across the UK, US and Europe. These gatherings have attracted front-line security professionals, CSOs, senior police commanders, government officials, specialist consultants and operational leaders. What attendees value most is the environment TiNYg creates: a trusted, non-commercial space where meaningful insight is exchanged freely. This atmosphere of openness is central to the organisation’s identity and is a direct reflection of David’s original vision.

Why the Middle East Matters

The Middle East represents an important new chapter in TiNYg’s journey. As the region continues to invest in smart cities, major infrastructure programmes and globally connected commercial hubs, knowledge sharing and cross-sector collaboration have become increasingly important. TiNYg recognised the region’s ambition and its unique position in the global security landscape.

The first TiNYg conference in Dubai demonstrated how strongly regional and international organisations value the opportunity to gather, learn and collaborate. The event brought together professionals from law enforcement, multinational corporations, critical infrastructure sectors and academic institutions. Its success confirmed that the Middle East is not only an appropriate location for TiNYg, but a strategically essential one.

As TiNYg prepares for its second Middle East conference, its commitment to the region is unmistakable. The expansion is not about geography. It is about strengthening partnerships, supporting local expertise and offering a forum where practitioners can openly share knowledge that benefits communities worldwide.

The Humble Force Behind the Movement

At the heart of TiNYg is David Evans, a leader widely described as humble, energetic and dedicated to bringing people together. Those who know him speak of a founder who prefers to lift others up rather than seek recognition for himself. David remembers names, notices details, welcomes newcomers and celebrates the success of others long before his own. His leadership style is rooted in service, empathy and an unwavering commitment to the profession.

For many, David is much more than the founder of TiNYg. He is the constant thread that holds the global network together.

A Vision That Continues to Grow

Now approaching its second decade of impact, TiNYg stands as a testament to what can be achieved when purposeful leadership meets genuine collaboration. It is an organisation built on trust, sustained by volunteers, guided by experts and strengthened by a global community committed to doing good. In a world defined by rapid change and evolving risks, David’s vision remains more relevant than ever: a security profession that thrives through connection, not competition.

TiNYg’s continued expansion into new regions and sectors reflects the enduring value of its mission. Wherever the organisation operates, it creates the same impact: professionals coming together openly, learning from one another and strengthening the resilience of their organisations and communities. Each event, partnership and initiative reinforces the importance of shared knowledge and meaningful dialogue.

This spirit of collaboration is, and always will be, the essence of TiNYg. It is a community shaped by people who care deeply about making the world safer, guided by a founder whose humility and commitment continue to inspire those around him. As TiNYg evolves, its purpose remains constant: to unite, to educate and to empower the global security community for the greater good.