They say the future is shaped by the choices we make today. To me, it’s a tapestry woven from our beginnings, our challenges, and the steps we take—often imperfect, but always deliberate.
Looking back on my journey, I’m humbled by how far I’ve come and grateful for the lessons learned along the way. I hope my story inspires you to keep moving forward, no matter where you’re starting from.
I grew up in Warri, one of Nigeria’s most vibrant yet challenging cities, where I learned resilience and grit early on. My educational journey began at Delta Steel Technical High School, followed by a BSc in Mathematics from the University of Benin.
My professional path started in Nigeria, where I worked with prominent organisations, including Celtel Mobile, Vmobile/Vodafone, FedEx, Platinum Mortgage Bank, and First Bank of Nigeria.
In 2007, I relocated to the UK, where my journey evolved in unexpected ways. Scotland offered new opportunities to serve and grow, from volunteering as a Board of Trustees Member to taking on roles like Tester, Admin Officer, and Call Centre Agent at organisations such as TGIF (Scottish Charity), JobCentre Plus, and Computer Cab. These experiences may not have been glamorous, but they were essential stepping stones that shaped my character and broadened my perspective.
As I relocated to England, I took on more advanced roles, such as Cyber Risk Manager, Cyber Security Governance Lead, Lead Business Analyst, and Business Architect.
My academic journey also took a leap forward. I pursued a Master of Science (MSc) in Software & System Security at the University of Oxford (GCHQ Scholar). Along the way, I earned a collection of certifications;
• CRISC (Risk and Information Systems Control)– ISACA
• Lean Six Sigma – University of Strathclyde
• PRINCE2® Practitioner – APMG International
• Six Business Analysis Certificates – BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT
• UK National Cyber Security Centre Certified Professional
My journey is marked by grace, perseverance, and faith in God. None of it came easy, but every challenge added to the story I’m proud to share today.
Now, I’m honoured to serve as a speaker, mentor, coach, non-executive director, advisory board member, and a prof doctorate researcher at Anglia Ruskin University. My passions lie in cybersecurity, AI, digital transformation, leadership, women in tech, and empowering underrepresented communities.
This isn’t just about me—it’s about all of us. Whatever stage of your journey, know that your experiences are building a foundation for your future.
So, how’s your journey coming along? Are you shaping the future you envision?
And in case you’re wondering, if I had to do it all over again, would I take the same path? My answer in the voice of ‘a Waffi Girl’: Of course na! Ahead ahead – na di way!
Let’s keep moving forward together.
