Ryan Williams Sr.

In our latest episode of "Ask a CISSP," show host, Ryan Williams Sr. had the pleasure of speaking with Rebekah Skeete, Chief Operating Officer, Board Member, and Treasurer of BlackGirlsHack, about her journey in cybersecurity, the mission of her organization, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in our field.

BlackGirlsHack (BGH) is a trailblazing organization dedicated to creating opportunities for black girls and women in cybersecurity. As Rebekah explained, the mission of BGH is to provide training, mentorship, and support to individuals who are often underrepresented in tech.

Rebekah shared how the organization started with Tennisha Virginia Martin, MBA, PMP, GWAPT, GPEN, GCIH , the Founder, President & Executive Director, and Chairman of the Board of BlackGirlsHack, documenting her journey to become a pen tester. What began as an Instagram page quickly grew into a full-fledged organization aimed at filling the gaps in the cybersecurity community. Rebekah’s role as COO involves implementing processes and procedures to help the organization efficiently fulfill its mission.

The Power of Community and Mentorship
One of the standout moments from our conversation was Rebekah's emphasis on the importance of community and mentorship. She highlighted the various programs BGH offers, from weekly training sessions to cohort programs for red and blue teams. "It's about creating a support system where people can share their experiences, learn from each other, and grow together," she said.

Rebekah also discussed the value of holistic support, emphasizing that mental health and personal well-being are crucial for professional success. The BGH book club is one such initiative that fosters a sense of community, allowing members to unwind, share, and learn from each other.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Ryan and Rebekah's insights into imposter syndrome resonated deeply. Ryan shared how even established professionals sometimes feel they need to "get their weight up" before reaching out to major organizations such as BlackGirlsHack. It's a reminder that regardless of where we are in our careers, we all have moments of self-doubt. Rebekah’s humility and candidness is a testament to the supportive culture at BGH, where members are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and embrace their potential.

The Role of AI in Cybersecurity
As we further discussed the future of cybersecurity, Rebekah shared her thoughts on the growing impact of AI. Initially skeptical, she has come to see AI as a powerful tool that can significantly enhance our capabilities. BGH is currently developing an AI training cohort to ensure members are prepared to leverage these new technologies.

Supporting BlackGirlsHack
For those interested in supporting BGH, Rebekah outlined various ways to get involved. From donations to volunteering time and skills, there are numerous opportunities to contribute to this vital cause. Upcoming events like SquadCon, BGH’s annual conference, provide a platform for learning, networking, and community building.

SquadCon, hosted by BlackGirlsHack, is an upcoming flagship event that promises to be a cornerstone for the cybersecurity community. Scheduled for August 6-8 in Las Vegas, SquadCon offers a hybrid experience, allowing both in-person and virtual participation. The conference kicks off with a game night, fostering networking and camaraderie. Over the next two days, attendees will engage in content-rich sessions featuring keynote speakers, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops. With an accessible general admission fee of $100, SquadCon aims to lower barriers to entry, making it an inclusive and essential gathering for anyone passionate about cybersecurity. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills, expand your network, or support diversity in tech, SquadCon is the place to be.

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Conclusion
Our conversation with Rebekah Skeete was inspiring and enlightening. It reinforced the importance of diversity in cybersecurity and highlighted the incredible work BGH is doing to foster inclusion and support. As we continue to advance in our field, let’s remember the value of community, mentorship, and lifelong learning.