Empowering the Next Generation in Cybersecurity

Welcome to my world, where the realms of cybersecurity and children's literature intertwine to create something extraordinary. Today, I want to share with you the story behind my book, 'See Yourself in Cybersecurity', and how this unique project is igniting a spark in the younger generation.

A Heartfelt Mission and True labor of Love 'See Yourself in Cybersecurity' isn't just a book; it's a mission close to my heart. It's a journey through the vibrant and ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, designed to inspire middle-grade and high-school children. But why did I choose to write this book?

The answer is simple. I believe in the potential of the younger generation. I wanted to show them that the cybersecurity industry isn't just for a select few; it's a space where all the diverse characters represented in the book, from across the globe, belong. There are countless paths to explore, and I wanted to make sure they knew it.

Almost every day, I receive inquiries from aspiring professionals on platforms such as LinkedIn. They're eager to join the cybersecurity field, but many of them don't realize the breadth of opportunities it offers. That's where 'See Yourself in Cybersecurity' comes in. If that fact and reality isn’t a parent to those aspiring to be in the field who are adults, how can the next generation those in high school and below aspire to be in the industry? It's my tool to inspire and inform, helping the next generation envision a future in this exciting and ever-evolving industry.

My journey into the world of cybersecurity is a blog for another day but I'm an immigrant from Ethiopia, a mother of four, and a career changer from the legal field. Along the way, I've earned my stripes as a multi-award-winning cybersecurity advocate, a TEDx Speaker, and a LinkedIn Learning instructor. I've also authored three award-winning children's books, including 'Oh, No … Hacked Again!' – a children’s book that teaches kids about online safety and sparks their interest in the thrilling world of cybersecurity. My first children’s book is titled, Proud in Her Hijab championing girls’ empowerment.

My latest release, See Yourself in Cybersecurity If there's one thing I hope readers take away from 'See Yourself in Cybersecurity', it's this: the cybersecurity industry thrives on diverse perspectives. Through the book's characters, I want young readers to see that people from all walks of life belong here. I want to inspire a sense of limitless possibility, encouraging them to explore the myriad avenues within this expansive field. Ultimately, I want them to envision a future where they play a vital role in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity.

My academic journey led me to Georgia Tech University, where I earned an M.S. degree in cybersecurity just May, 2023. I also earned my Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Metropolitan State University in 2018. Today, I'm a Cloud Security Engineer at a Fortune 500 organization, Best Buy and serve as the Community Outreach director for Black Girls in Cyber, a non-profit organization - Black Girls in Cyber.

I am grateful that my efforts in the field haven't gone unnoticed. I'm honored to be the recipient of the 2023 Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal 40 under 40 award, the 2023 Ivan Allen Legacy Award from Graduate school, Women Who Code Applaud Her Awards in Security, the 2022 SC Media Women in IT Security Cyber Advocate award, and the CyberScoop Most Inspiring Up & Comer award. In 2021, I received the Team Women’s WaveMakers Award - Unchartered Territory.

So, what's next on my journey? I'm currently working on an anthology book project, collaborating with talented Black women in the cybersecurity and privacy field. We're sharing our journeys and experiences in the industry, and you can expect to see this book in October 2023. I am also working on a LinkedIn Learning Course on cybersecurity careers: Build Your Brand in Cybersecurity.

Thank you for reading!

Stay connected with me through my LinkedIn, and check my books for signed copies at my Website or from Amazon.

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