From Activist to Advocate: Vianney Forewah's Journey in Cybersecurity

Nestled amidst the lush mountains of Cameroon, Vianney Forewah's story began not with lines of code, but with a passion for justice. A digital rights activist at his core, Vianney saw the increasing threat that cybercrime posed to individuals and communities, especially in underserved regions. This ignited a fire within him, leading him on a remarkable journey that transformed him from an advocate into a cybersecurity champion.

Vianney has trained over 1500 youths across Cameroon, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to navigate the digital landscape safely and responsibly. Vianney's path was paved with dedication and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. He honed his skills through online courses, earning certifications in ethical hacking, information security auditing, supervisory skills and penetration testing. This newfound expertise, combined with his unwavering commitment to digital rights, led him to co-found NexGen Group, a cyber security consulting company dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations in Africa.

NexGen Group quickly carved its niche in the cybersecurity landscape, providing essential services such as vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and cyber security awareness training. However, Vianney recognized a critical gap in the ecosystem: the need for mentorship. He envisioned a program that would bridge the gap between aspiring cybersecurity professionals and experienced practitioners, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and collaborative growth.

This vision materialized in the form of the NexGen Cybersecurity Mentorship Program, set to launch in January 2024. The program will connect students in higher education institutions with seasoned cybersecurity professionals, providing them with invaluable guidance and support. Through a structured curriculum, the program will focus on three key areas:

• Career Development: Equipping mentees with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complex world of cybersecurity careers.
• Technical Skills: Providing hands-on experience and practical training in essential cybersecurity tools and techniques.
• Ethical Practices: Instilling a strong sense of ethical responsibility and promoting the responsible use of technology.

The program will go beyond mere knowledge transfer. It aims to foster a supportive community of mentors and mentees, facilitating regular interactions through workshops, seminars, and networking events. This will create a platform for peer-to-peer learning, fostering a sense of collaboration and belonging within the cybersecurity community.

Vianney Forewah's journey is a testament to the power of passion and dedication. From a digital rights activist to a cybersecurity advocate, he is now paving the way for the next generation of cybersecurity professionals in Africa. The NexGen Cybersecurity Mentorship Program represents a significant step in this direction, empowering individuals and building a robust cybersecurity ecosystem across the continent.

Join us in supporting this initiative by volunteering to becoming a mentor. Together, we can cultivate a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the digital world.

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