“Whenever someone asks, ‘So you’ve completely abandoned Chemical Engineering?’ I always reply that the beauty of cybersecurity lies in its universal relevance. Every industry, has data to protect”
MaryImmaculate Kiio
“My name is MaryImmaculate Kiio from Kenya. I went from a degree in chemical engineering and no background in Information Technology, to landing an Information Security Analyst role at a global bank…this is my Cyber story.
I first learned about CyberSafe Foundation through a friend’s Whatsapp status post. The post was about an advert by CyberSafe for applications to the third cohort of the CyberGirls program.
As hungry for knowledge as I was, I applied for the program. I was invited for the interview, and fortunately, I got the golden chance to be in the program. I was scared of how things would unfold, especially because I had no Information #Technology background.
When I got accepted into the program, I was just starting my fifth and final year of undergraduate studies, and I knew it would be a demanding year.
I prepared myself for the journey and couldn’t be more grateful for taking that step to apply. The CyberGirls program profoundly impacted my life – “transformed” doesn’t even describe it. I appreciated the professionalism and seriousness with which everything was done.
The Cyber Fridays kept us updated on the latest cyber news. I enjoyed the chat sessions with our success advisors, the Linux Party, the projects, and the mentorship sessions I always looked forward to.
My mentor, Maggie Aromokeye, saw great potential in me and constantly reminded me, “Remember that you’re beautifully intelligent and confident.” While we often know our capabilities, having someone else acknowledge them gives us confidence and energy to keep pushing forward.
The CyberGirls mantra (still my phone wallpaper to this day) became a reality. Whenever I faced challenges and felt overwhelmed, I’d recite the mantra, reminding myself that I’m resilient, a doer, and possess genius intellect.
Over the 8-month program, my confidence in Governance and Risk Compliance knowledge and skills flourished.
Now, I’m thrilled to be working as an Information Security Analyst at a global bank, and I’m eager to see what the future holds. Cybersecurity offered me a job even before I completed my major degree program.
Every time I get this question: “So you’ve completely abandoned your Chemical Engineering?” And I always respond by saying “The beauty of Cybersecurity is that every field needs it. Every field has data to protect.”
CyberGirls taught me valuable lessons: effective time management, flexibility, resilience, and the importance of working towards my goals.
My deepest gratitude to Confidence Staveley and CyberSafe Foundation for the opportunity that gave my life a paradigm shift.”
CyberGirls Fellowship is Africa’s largest cybersecurity training and mentorship program for women.
