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Aimé Digital   →  Blog   →  Cybersecurity   →  Reflecting on Life-Changing Years at Microsoft Belux
Author by nadiaaimePosted on Categories Cybersecurity, Featured, Life, Motivational

In life, there are moments that define us, push us, and shape us into the people we are meant to become. For me, one of those moments was being hired as a Cloud endpoint Technical Specialist then later moving into the of Cybersecurity Technical Specialist at Microsoft Belux more than three years ago.

At the time, I didn’t feel ready. Honestly, who would have thought that someone learning from YouTube tutorials, fresh into motherhood after having just welcomed my daughter, could step into a role at a company like Microsoft? Imposter syndrome was relentless, whispering doubts and questioning if I was truly prepared—or if I was setting myself up for failure.

But then, there was Myriam, Bart, and Arnaud. During that interview, they saw something in me that I couldn’t yet see in myself. They saw potential where I saw uncertainty, passion where I felt inexperience, and a spark of capability that I was too hesitant to claim.

Looking back, their faith and decision to hire me was the spark that ignited a journey of growth, self-discovery, and transformation—one that has shaped not only my career but the person I am today.

Reflecting On The Early Days

Stepping into Microsoft was as exhilarating as it was daunting. Cybersecurity isn’t a small field—it demands a combination of technical expertise and like many i found myself wishing to be born 15 years ago earlier, so I could have battlefield experience.

And yet, from day one, I found myself in the best possible environment. Surrounded by mentors, supportive peers, and a manager who constantly encouraged me to take risks, ask questions, and embrace the learning process, I felt both challenged and empowered.

But let’s be honest—not everything along the way was sunshine. Some of the comments I received online over the years were far from encouraging. Anyone making a transition into a new field knows that doubt—both from yourself and others—will always be a part of the journey.

With every passing year, though, I learned to trust my knowledge and my place in this field. That confidence didn’t happen overnight; it came from discovering an area of cybersecurity that truly aligned with me and ignited my passion: Identity and Access Management (IAM) and Identity Governance and Administration (IGA).

Finding that niche gave me purpose and spent the pas 2 years learning and building my tool box to finally becoming an identity champ and the to go person for all things identity, So for anyone reading this and finding themselves early in their career transition, remember you can’t be an expert at everything and you need to chose

Growth Through Challenges

Over the past three years, I’ve tackled challenges that seemed insurmountable at first glance. Whether it was designing solutions to protect clients against evolving cyber threats or presenting strategies to executives under tight deadlines, each task pushed me further than I thought I could go.

Through it all, I discovered that growth often comes from the toughest moments—the ones where you’re stretched, challenged, and even a little scared. I learned to trust my instincts, lean on my team, and celebrate small wins along the way.

What I loved most about my role was the impact we made. Cybersecurity isn’t just about technology; it’s about protecting people, businesses, and communities. Knowing that my work contributed in anyway to helping our customer protect their digital world is a privilege I never took for granted.

Personal Evolution

When I reflect on the person I was when I started this journey, I barely recognize them. In so many ways, I’ve evolved—not just as a professional, but as a human being, as a woman and as a mom.

I’ve gained confidence in my voice, clarity in my purpose, and a deep appreciation for the value of persistence. I’ve learned that feeling “not ready” isn’t a sign to turn back; it’s a signal to step up.

Gratitude and Reflection

None of this would have been possible without the people who supported me along the way.

I’ve had the privilege of working alongside and collaborating with talented peers that made work a fun place to be

The list of colleagues I’ll miss is extensive, but I want to mention a few:

Antoine Borremans, Amine Azizi, —saying I had fun working with you would be the understatement of the year. You brought so much laughter, insight, and camaraderie into every moment standing up for me. Thank you for the jokes that brightened tough days, the coaching that made me better, and the guidance that always kept me on track.

Michiel Van Der Eecken and Jens Du Four—we started this journey together as Cloud Endpoint TS, a team of three, sharing the excitement and challenges of our first steps. Even when I “betrayed” you to join security, those first six months as teammates remain some of my most cherished memories.

To Jonathan Lefebvre, Khadija Assbai, Tim Hermie, Nicolas Bart Bruninx, Rutger Truyers, Shamma Raghib, Dorien Aerts, Tine Dubois, Andy Elder Clara Maldonado Tim Thaens, Tom Camps, Loufti, Thomas Dalberto, Ilse Van Criekinge, Sébastien Place, Kris Vande Moortel Antoine Engelen Fabian Dupuis Shailav Gupta, CCSP Peter van Leeuwen Lien Deleenheer — everyone of you made my experience truly unforgettable. From the shared laughs and morning chats to the invaluable lessons, you’ve each left a mark on my journey that I’ll carry forward.

Nico Sienaert, thanks for your unwavering support, amazing events over the years and letting me shine along side you or on stage.

And to myself—I’m proud of the risks I took, the challenges I embraced, and the person I’ve become.

What’s Next

As I close this chapter at Microsoft BeLux i feel a mix of gratitude and excitement. While it’s bittersweet to move on from a place that’s been so pivotal in my growth and been home for what feels like forever, I know this isn’t the end—it’s a new beginning.

In the coming weeks, I’ll be stepping into my new role that builds on everything I’ve learned so far.

To anyone who feels like they’re not ready to take a leap: trust in the process. Growth happens in the spaces where you feel uncertain. Surround yourself with people who see your potential, and don’t be afraid to bet on yourself.

Here’s to the journey ahead

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Posted on Categories Advice, Cybersecurity, Wellbeing, Women In Tech

Intersectionality Is a Must For Diversity and Inclusion

For me, the true spirit of diversity and inclusion is and will be incomplete without practically implementing the concept of Intersectionality. For embracing the diversity and socially welcoming people irrespective of their color, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religious practices, all the complex overlapping areas of discrimination and biasedness must…

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Posted on Categories Featured, Life, Motivational

Hello September

As the warmth of summer fades and the days grow shorter, there’s a palpable shift in the air. September marks the beginning of a new chapter—a season of transition and reflection. The end of summer can often feel bittersweet, a reminder that time marches on. But this period also brings…

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Author by nadiaaimePosted on Categories Featured, Motivational

We all do it.

You have a task in front of you—an email to send, a project to finish, or a presentation to start. But instead of diving in, you think, “I’ll do it later.” Hours pass, days go by, and suddenly, that simple task has turned into a looming burden.

Here’s the thing: Doing things later feels innocent in the moment, but it accumulates silently, draining your time and energy.

The Vicious Cycle of Delay

At first glance, pushing a task to later seems harmless. It’s just one small delay, right? But, once that becomes a habit, it starts to have a compounding effect.

Procrastination has this tricky way of giving us short-term relief (avoiding stress) while causing long-term damage (increasing anxiety). Tasks you put off become larger in your mind, more daunting, and—ironically—more stressful to complete later.

The more you delay, the bigger the task feels.

This cycle not only eats away at your productivity but also at your confidence. It makes you feel behind, overwhelmed, and often guilty.

Why We Procrastinate: It’s Not Laziness

One common misconception is that procrastination equals laziness. But that’s not true. In fact, many of the highest achievers battle with procrastination, and it’s rarely about effort or desire.

Instead, procrastination often comes down to fear and uncertainty.

– Fear of failure: “What if I can’t do this perfectly?”

– Fear of judgment: “What if people criticize my work?”

– Fear of success: “What if I achieve this, and it brings new expectations?”

Another major factor? Decision paralysis.

We have so many things on our plates that deciding where to begin feels overwhelming. So, instead of picking one thing and starting, we choose to do… nothing.

The Real Cost of Delaying

The cost of doing things later isn’t just the task left undone—it’s what you miss out on by not taking action.

– Lost opportunities: Every day you delay that important project is a day someone else could be moving forward.

– Missed growth: Action, even imperfect action, leads to learning. When you wait, you lose the chance to grow and improve.

– Mental clutter: Unfinished tasks take up space in your mind. The longer they sit there, the more they weigh you down.

By letting procrastination take over, you are not just delaying tasks—you’re delaying your own potential.

How to Break Free from the Curse of “I’ll Do It Later”

Ready to stop the cycle and start taking control? Here are actionable strategies that can help you overcome procrastination:

1. Start Small—But Start Now

One of the biggest reasons we delay tasks is because they seem too big. The trick is to break them down.

Instead of saying, “I need to finish this project,” shift your mindset to: “I’ll spend 10 minutes outlining this project.”

Taking small steps reduces the mental weight and gives you the momentum to keep going.

2. Create Non-Negotiable Time Blocks

One of the best productivity hacks is to assign specific time blocks for your tasks. Once you schedule it, treat it like a meeting—non-negotiable.

Start with a 20-minute work sprint. During that time, focus solely on the task at hand. Afterward, reward yourself with a break.

3. Eliminate Decision Fatigue

Often, we procrastinate because we don’t know where to start. Combat this by creating a priority list each evening for the next day.

Limit your to-do list to 3 major tasks. This helps you focus and prevents you from being overwhelmed by too many choices.

4. Stop Chasing Perfection

Perfection is the enemy of progress. Many of us procrastinate because we’re waiting for the “perfect” moment or because we want our work to be flawless.

But here’s the truth: Progress trumps perfection every time. You can always tweak and improve as you go, but you need to get started first.

5. Visualize the End Result

A powerful motivator is to visualize what completing the task will bring. How will you feel once it’s done? What opportunities might it open?

Focusing on the benefits of finishing the task can help drive you forward, especially on days when motivation is low.

Reclaim Your Time

There’s a saying that goes, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.”

The same goes for your work, your goals, and your dreams. You might have delayed in the past, but the worst thing you can do is let that cycle continue.

It’s time to break the curse of doing things later and reclaim your productivity, your confidence, and your potential. Start small, but start today.

CAREER CAREER TRANSITION TIME MANAGEMENT
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Author by c1ph3rPosted on Categories Advice, Cybersecurity, Featured, Life

The Power of Transferable Skills: Leveraging Your Experience for a Career Transition.

In today’s job market, one of the greatest assets you can have is not just technical know-how especially when you are transitioning into a new career, is the set of transferable skills you come with — those skills you’ve gained in previous roles that can be applied across different industries.

If you’re looking to break into technology from a different career path, transferable skills are your secret weapon. These skills can make your transition smoother and more valuable, as they enable you to bring fresh perspectives and diverse problem-solving approaches to the tech/cyber world.

Let’s explore how you can identify, refine, and leverage your transferable skills to successfully transition into the tech industry.

What Are Transferable Skills?

Transferable skills are abilities and expertise that aren’t tied to one specific job or industry. They can be applied across different roles and sectors, making them incredibly valuable when changing careers. Common examples include:

  • Communication
  • Problem-solving
  • Project management
  • Leadership
  • Time management
  • Critical thinking
  • Collaboration

While the tech industry may seem heavily focused on technical skills like coding or data analysis, there is a growing need for professionals who bring strong transferable skills that add to the human side of tech — think leadership in team environments, clear communication for user-facing roles, or creative problem-solving in complex systems.

Identifying Your Transferable Skills

The first step to leveraging your transferable skills is identifying what they are. Reflect on your previous roles, whether you worked in education, healthcare, finance, or any other industry. What were the core competencies that helped you succeed? what brought you energy ?

For example, in my being self taught, taught me how to google dork my way to understanding complex subject and breaking them down and in a way this is what i do at work today helping customers understand Microsoft Security solutions and breaking them down to help them understand how it’s going to solve their cybersecurity challenges,

But this would also apply if you were a teacher, you likely have excellent communication and organizational skills. If you were in project management in the past, you already have leadership and problem-solving abilities that are highly valued in the tech world the list could go on.

So how do you uncover your transferable skills:

  1. Analyze past achievements: Think about the times you made a significant impact in your previous roles. What were the skills that helped you get there?
  2. Ask colleagues: Former co-workers or managers can offer valuable insights into your strengths.
  3. Take inventory: Write down the core tasks from your previous jobs and highlight the skills you used to complete them.
  4. What hobbies do you have: Sometimes, your outside interests reveal hidden skills that are valuable in the workplace.

Translating Your Skills into Tech

Once you’ve identified your transferable skills, the next step is to translate them into the context of technology. Even if you don’t have a technical background, many of the skills you’ve acquired can fit right into a tech or cyber career.

  • Communication: In tech or cyber, communication is key. Whether you’re a product manager, UX designer, or customer support specialist, the ability to articulate ideas clearly, write effective documentation, or present findings is invaluable.
  • Project Management: Many tech projects are highly collaborative and time-sensitive. If you have experience in managing teams, coordinating tasks, and meeting deadlines, you already possess the foundation for roles like scrum master, product owner, or program manager.
  • Problem-Solving: Technology is all about solving problems. Whether you were troubleshooting in customer service, resolving conflicts in HR, or developing strategies in marketing, your ability to think critically and find solutions is a highly sought-after skill in tech.
  • Team Collaboration: The tech industry thrives on teamwork, and companies are always looking for individuals who can work well in cross-functional teams. If you’ve managed a team or worked in collaborative settings, emphasize how you can bring that dynamic into tech environments where agile methodologies or cross-team projects are the norm.

Upskilling: Bridging the Gap

While transferable skills are important, some roles in tech may still require a basic understanding of certain technical skills. The good news is, i learned my job on YouTube so learning any technical skills today has never been more accessible. So this is the discipline and investment part wear you chose to spend your time on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning which offer courses on a wide range of subjects, from coding languages like Python and JavaScript to data analysis and cybersecurity and most foundational topics are free.

Start by focusing on the technical skills most aligned with your target role. Use ChatGPT to help you break down the skills needed to get started. For example, if you want to become a product manager, consider taking courses on Agile methodologies or user-centered design. If you’re aiming for a more technical role, start with a coding introductory course on web development. By combining your transferable skills with some key technical knowledge, you’ll be in a great position to make the leap into tech.

Telling Your Story: Resumes and Interviews

The ability to tell your story in a compelling way is crucial when transitioning into a new field. Your resume and interviews are where you can showcase your transferable skills and explain how they make you a perfect fit for the role you want.

One thing i believe in despite how deeply i love and committed to technology is people over processes and learning to communicate your story with passion that can be felt or visualized will always leave an impression, so most times you regardless of why you are doing this transition never see yourself as starting over from nothing or less than because if you do, your choice of words will reflect that in your :

  • Resume: So i would suggest to tailor your resume to highlight the transferable skills that match the job description. Instead of listing out your old job duties, focus on how the skills you’ve acquired over time can benefit the company. For example, if you were in sales, emphasize your ability to understand customer needs — a skill that translates well into user experience design or product management.
  • Interviews: During interviews, share specific examples of how you used your transferable skills to achieve results in your previous roles, if you need guidance use and practice the Star Method. Be prepared to draw parallels between those experiences and the challenges you would face in your new role.

Final Takeaway:

Breaking into tech from a different career path can feel intimidating, but your transferable skills are your superpower. Every role you’ve taken on, every skill you’ve mastered — they’re tools that set you apart. With a bit of upskilling and a compelling personal narrative, you’re not just transitioning; you’re bringing a fresh perspective that others might not see. By embracing the strengths you’ve already gained, you’re positioned to make a unique mark in tech (or cybersecurity!).

Use your past to shape your future and make your impact by being exactly who you are. Ready to make the leap? (If this resonated, feel free to share ♻️ and follow for more career transition insights!).

AI CAREER TRANSITION CYBERSECURITY
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Author by c1ph3rPosted on Categories Featured, Life, Motivational

Everyone loves to talk about achieving goals—hitting that career milestone, closing that big deal, making their first million or finally reaching that dream destination. But let’s pause for a moment.

What if the journey to get there is just as important, if not more so, than the destination itself?

I was giving a speech at a conference, and someone asked me, “You have all these dreams and goals, but what happens if you reach them? What then?”

At that moment, I paused and thought about it. I realized something profound—it’s not about reaching the goalpost or milestone i set for myself, but more about the fact that I’m having fun getting there. The journey itself is what truly matters.

One day, I hope to simply look around and think, “Huh, I reached the dream or goal I set for myself.”

Here’s why the journey is just as important as the destination:

1. Growth Happens on the Journey 🌱

It’s easy to focus on the end goal, but what truly shapes us is the process of getting there. The challenges, the learning experiences, and even the failures are what mold us into who we are. The journey is where growth happens. It’s where you discover your strengths, face your fears, and learn to adapt.

Think about your last big achievement. Sure, reaching that goal felt amazing, but wasn’t it the journey—the late nights, the problem-solving, the perseverance—that truly defined you? That’s where the real value lies.

2. Relationships Are Built Along the Way 🤝

When you’re solely focused on the destination, it’s easy to miss out on the relationships you build along the way. The journey is where connections are made—friends, mentors, and colleagues who support you, challenge you, and celebrate with you.

In life and business, relationships are everything. They don’t just happen at the finish line; they’re cultivated over time, through shared experiences, trust, and mutual growth. The journey is the perfect place to foster these relationships.

3. The Journey Teaches Resilience 🛠️

Every journey has its ups and downs. It’s the moments of struggle, when things don’t go as planned, that teach us resilience. How you handle setbacks, how you pick yourself up after a failure—these are lessons learned on the journey.

Resilience isn’t something you achieve at the destination; it’s something you build along the way. And it’s what allows you to keep going, even when the road gets tough.

4. Enjoying the Process Leads to Fulfillment 😊

If you’re only happy when you reach your destination, you’re missing out on a lot of life. The journey is where life happens. It’s in the small victories, the daily efforts, the moments of joy along the way that fulfillment is found.

Instead of just focusing on the end goal, learn to enjoy the process. Find joy in the work, in the progress, in the journey itself. When you do, the destination becomes the cherry on top, not the only thing that matters.

5. The Journey Gives You Perspective 👓

When you’re on a journey, you see things from a different perspective. You gain insights that you wouldn’t have had if you were just focused on the destination. The journey gives you the chance to reflect, to understand what truly matters, and to make adjustments as you go.

It’s in the journey that you realize the destination might not be exactly what you thought it would be—and that’s okay. Because by then, you’ve gained something far more valuable: wisdom and clarity.

6. The Journey Shapes Your Destination 🛤️

Here’s the thing: the journey and the destination aren’t separate. The journey shapes the destination. How you approach the journey—whether with enthusiasm, determination, or even hesitation—affects the outcome.

When you embrace the journey, you’re more likely to reach a destination that’s meaningful and aligned with who you’ve become. The journey allows you to evolve, to grow, and to refine your goals along the way.

So, why does this matter?

When you learn to value the journey, you start living with more intention, more awareness, and more joy. You realize that every step you take is part of the bigger picture, and that the destination is just the culmination of everything you’ve learned and experienced along the way.

Embrace the journey. It’s where the magic happens.

Curious… What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned on your journey?

P.S. If this resonated with you, consider sharing it with your network. After all, we’re all on this journey together. 💬

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Author by c1ph3rPosted on Categories Featured, Life, Motivational

We all dread them, yet they’re a part of our personal and professional lives that we can’t escape. Whether it’s addressing a conflict with a colleague, giving tough feedback, or discussing a sensitive topic with a loved one—these conversations are inevitable.

But here’s the thing: learning to have these conversations is a must.

Why We Avoid Uncomfortable Conversations

First, let’s talk about why these conversations feel so daunting.

Fear of conflict is the obvious answer. But it’s more than that. We fear damaging relationships, we fear being misunderstood, and we fear the emotional toll it might take on us and the other person involved.

But the most significant fear? The fear of vulnerability.

Having an uncomfortable conversation often means exposing our true feelings, admitting we’re hurt, or confronting someone else’s pain. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s scary.

For years, I avoided these conversations at all costs. I’d sweep issues under the rug, hoping they’d resolve themselves. Spoiler alert: they never did.

From A Professional Perspective

From a professional standpoint, avoiding uncomfortable conversations can lead to significant issues. In the workplace, this avoidance often results in unresolved conflicts, decreased productivity, and a toxic work environment. Employees may feel undervalued or misunderstood, and managers may struggle with underperformance that goes unaddressed.

I was guilty of this avoidance. I would shy away from giving critical feedback or addressing conflicts head-on. The result? Projects suffered, and team dynamics became strained. I realized that my reluctance to engage in these tough conversations was doing more harm than good.

A study by Crucial Learning formerly known as (VitalSmarts), a leadership training company, found that 95% of employees struggle to speak up to their colleagues and managers about their concerns, which often leads to larger problems down the road. The study highlighted that unresolved issues tend to escalate, causing frustration and disengagement among team members.

I learned the hard way that avoiding uncomfortable conversations is not a sustainable strategy. The consequences of inaction were too significant to ignore, and it became clear that I needed to change my approach.

To Give You A Personal Example

A remember a challenging phase when we working on a project with The D.I.C.E Group that seemed to be going wrong in all ways, the team was frustrated, and the blame game had begun. It was clear that something needed to be addressed, but I kept pushing it off.

Why? Because I didn’t want to deal with the fallout.

But then, my business mentor said something that changed everything:

“The discomfort you feel now is temporary, but the consequences of avoiding the conversation will last much longer.”

That hit home!

So, I took the plunge. I called a team meeting and laid everything out on the table. It wasn’t easy. There were tears, there were raised voices, but for the first time, everyone was being honest. We addressed the issues head-on, and though it was uncomfortable, it was also incredibly liberating.

The project didn’t miraculously fix itself overnight, but that conversation marked the beginning of a turnaround. More importantly, it marked the beginning of my journey to embrace uncomfortable conversations rather than fear them.

What I Learned

I’ve learned several lessons that have helped survive in uncomfortable conversations.

1. Preparation is Key: Before diving into a tough conversation, I now take time to prepare. I think about the main points I want to discuss, anticipate the other person’s reactions, and even rehearse what I’m going to say. This preparation helps me stay focused and calm, no matter how heated the conversation gets.

2. Listen More Than You Speak: It’s tempting to dominate the conversation, especially when you’re nervous. But I’ve learned that listening—really listening—can defuse tension and build trust. It shows the other person that you respect their perspective, even if you don’t agree with it.

3. Embrace the Discomfort: This might sound counterintuitive, but I’ve found that leaning into the discomfort makes the conversation easier. Instead of trying to avoid the awkwardness, I acknowledge it. I might even say, “I know this is a tough conversation, and it’s uncomfortable for me too.” This honesty sets the tone for an open and authentic dialogue.

4. Focus on Solutions, Not Blame: In uncomfortable conversations, it’s easy to slip into blame game. But pointing fingers rarely leads to a positive outcome. Instead, I’ve learned to focus on finding solutions. What can we do to move forward? How can we prevent this issue from happening again? This shift in focus can turn a difficult conversation into a constructive one.

5. Follow Up: The conversation doesn’t end when the meeting does. Following up afterward is crucial to ensure that the discussion leads to real change. Whether it’s a quick check-in to see how the other person is feeling or a more formal follow-up meeting, this step shows that you’re committed to resolving the issue.

Why It’s Worth It

So, why put yourself through the discomfort? Why not just avoid these conversations altogether?

Because avoiding them only makes things worse.

Problems fester. Resentment builds. Misunderstandings grow. And before you know it, a small issue has become a full-blown crisis.

But when you face the conversation head-on, something amazing happens. You gain clarity, you build stronger relationships, load gets lighter and you actually grow as a person.

Your Turn

If you’ve been avoiding an uncomfortable conversation, I encourage you to take that first step. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it.

Start by preparing. Think about what you want to say and how you want to say it. Then, dive in. Embrace the discomfort and focus on finding a solution, not assigning blame.

And remember, you don’t have to do it perfectly. The important thing is that you’re trying.

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Author by c1ph3rPosted on Categories Featured, Life, Motivational

As the warmth of summer fades and the days grow shorter, there’s a palpable shift in the air. September marks the beginning of a new chapter—a season of transition and reflection. The end of summer can often feel bittersweet, a reminder that time marches on. But this period also brings with it a unique opportunity for renewal, a chance to refocus, and the courage to pursue the remainder of the year with fresh determination.

The Transition: Embracing Change

September is a month of transitions. The carefree days of summer give way to the structured routines of autumn. For many, this time of year represents a return to the grind, whether it’s the start of a new school year, the ramping up of work projects, or the final push to achieve personal goals set at the beginning of the year.

But transitions, though sometimes challenging, are also powerful. They are reminders that life is a series of seasons, each bringing its own lessons and opportunities. Embracing this change, rather than resisting it, allows us to grow. It’s a chance to reassess where we are and where we want to be. The transition from summer to autumn is not just a change in weather—it’s a call to action.

Reassess and Realign

The beginning of September is the perfect time to reassess your goals. Remember those resolutions made at the start of the year? Now is the time to revisit them. What have you accomplished so far? What still needs your attention?

Realignment is crucial. The goals you set in January may no longer fit your current situation. Life happens, circumstances change, and so do priorities. Take this time to reflect on what still matters to you. Adjust your goals if necessary, and create a realistic plan to achieve them.

Think of September as a second chance. The slate isn’t wiped clean, but it’s certainly ready for a refresh. What would you do differently if you had the chance to start the year over? Now’s your opportunity.

Courage to Continue

As the year progresses, it’s easy to lose momentum. The initial enthusiasm that fueled your ambitions in January may have faded. But the key to success isn’t just about starting strong—it’s about finishing strong too.

Courage plays a significant role here. The courage to continue despite setbacks, to push forward even when the road gets tough, is what separates those who succeed from those who don’t. September invites you to tap into that inner courage. It’s not about a grand overhaul but about making the conscious choice to keep going one step at a time.

Courage also means allowing yourself to be adaptable. Perhaps your original path isn’t working as well as you’d hoped. Don’t be afraid to pivot, to try something new. The willingness to adapt is a form of courage that can lead to unexpected success.

The Power of Routine

With the end of summer comes the return of routine. While summer is often associated with spontaneity and relaxation, autumn brings a return to structure. For many, this is a welcome change—a chance to get back into a rhythm that fosters productivity.

Routine doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, it can be incredibly empowering. Establishing a daily routine can help you stay on track with your goals and maintain the momentum you need to finish the year strong. Whether it’s setting aside time each day for focused work, exercise, or personal development, a consistent routine can be the foundation of success.

Consider incorporating new habits that align with your goals. Whether it’s waking up an hour earlier to tackle a side project, dedicating time to reading and learning, or simply taking a moment each day to reflect and plan, these small actions can have a big impact over time.

Reflecting on the Journey

As you look ahead to the final months of the year, it’s also important to reflect on how far you’ve come. Often, we’re so focused on the next goal that we forget to acknowledge our progress. Take a moment to celebrate your wins, big or small. Reflection not only gives you a sense of accomplishment but also provides valuable insights into what has worked well and what could be improved.

The journey is just as important as the destination. By reflecting on your experiences, you can carry those lessons forward into the rest of the year, making informed decisions that bring you closer to your goals.

Final Thoughts

As summer ends and September begins, embrace this season of change. Use it as an opportunity to reassess, realign, and reignite your passion for the goals you set at the start of the year. Tap into the courage to continue, establish routines that support your ambitions, and reflect on the journey you’ve taken so far.

Remember, the year isn’t over yet, September is your reminder that with the right mindset, determination, and courage, you can finish the year strong.

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Author by c1ph3rPosted on Categories Advice, Featured, Motivational, Uncategorized

In the past, having good technical skills was really important for getting a job and doing well in your career. But now, things are changing. Employers are starting to realize that soft skills are also super important. Soft skills are things like being good at talking to people, working well in a team, solving problems, and being a good leader. These skills are becoming more and more valued by companies.

In this article, we’ll talk about why it’s important to think differently about soft skills and hard skills. We’ll also introduce the idea of “power skills.” These are skills that include both technical stuff and being good with people. Plus, we’ll give you some helpful tips on how to develop a well-rounded set of skills that will help you get hired and grow in your career.

When people hear about “technical skills,” they often think about things like coding or working with computers. But these skills can actually cover a lot more than just technology. They’re all about being really good at something specific, whether it’s baking a cake or doing surgery. Technical skills, also called hard skills, are the practical abilities you need to do a particular job well. You might learn them through school, training programs, or by doing the work itself.

For example, a chef needs technical skills like knowing how to measure ingredients correctly, control oven temperatures, and follow recipes to make delicious meals. Similarly, a doctor relies on technical knowledge of the body, surgical techniques, and medical procedures to help patients feel better.

On the other hand, soft skills are all about how you deal with people. They’re about things like talking effectively, understanding others’ emotions, being flexible, thinking carefully, and working together with a team. These skills are valuable in any kind of job or industry.

However, I personally believe that calling them “soft skills” might not be the best way to describe them. Unlike technical skills that can be taught and learned through training, soft skills are often more about who you are as a person. They’re about your personality, your attitude, and how you naturally interact with others. That’s why I think it’s not quite accurate to call them “soft,” because they’re not necessarily easier or less important than technical skills. In fact, mastering soft skills can sometimes be even more challenging because it involves understanding and working with people’s emotions and personalities.

Both technical skills and soft skills are important in the workplace. Companies are realizing that having a mix of both is really valuable. While technical skills help you do your job, soft skills help you work well with others, adapt to different situations, and grow in your career.

Some experts think we should use a different term instead of “soft skills” and “hard skills.” They suggest calling them “power skills” because they include both technical stuff and people skills. Power skills are a mix of abilities that help you work effectively with others, lead teams, and make a difference. These skills include things like communication, listening, understanding emotions, being flexible, problem-solving, and teamwork. By recognizing how technical and people skills are connected, you can build a stronger set of skills that will help you succeed in your career.

To develop a good set of skills, try these tips:

1. Look for chances to learn and grow in both technical and people skills. Get involved in projects or activities that let you practice these skills in real-life situations.

2. Think about what you’re good at and what you need to work on in both technical and people areas. Being aware of your strengths and weaknesses can help you focus on areas where you want to improve. Have you read Strength Finder 2.0

3. Keep learning! Stay up-to-date with what’s happening in your field and learn new things about communication, emotions, and leadership.

4. Ask for feedback from others, like your friends, mentors, or bosses. Hearing what they think can help you see where you’re doing well and where you could do better.

5. Work with others on projects or tasks. This will give you a chance to practice teamwork, communication, and problem-solving while achieving shared goals.

In conclusion, it’s important to think differently about skills. By embracing the idea of power skills and focusing on both technical and people skills, you can build a strong set of abilities that will help you succeed in today’s job market.

So, keep learning and growing, and you’ll unlock your full potential for success in your career!

FAQs:

1. What are power skills?

– Power skills, also known as soft skills or interpersonal skills, refer to a combination of technical expertise and strong interpersonal qualities. These skills encompass effective communication, emotional intelligence, adaptability, critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork.

2. How do power skills enhance employability and career growth?

– Power skills enhance employability and career growth by enabling individuals to effectively work with others, manage teams, and lead with impact. These skills contribute to effective teamwork, adaptability, and career advancement.

3. Can power skills be learned and developed?

– Yes, power skills can be learned and developed through conscious effort and continuous learning. By seeking opportunities for growth, practicing self-awareness, and engaging in collaborative activities, individuals can enhance their power skills.

4. Are technical skills or power skills more important in the job market?

– Both technical skills and power skills are important in the job market. Technical skills provide expertise in a specific field, while power skills enable effective communication, collaboration, and adaptability. A combination of both is crucial for success.

5. How can I improve my power skills?

– To improve power skills, seek opportunities for growth, continuously learn and stay updated, practice self-awareness, seek feedback, and engage in collaborative activities. Embrace a growth mindset and actively work on developing both technical and interpersonal abilities.

adaptability career success communication skills employability job market problem-solving soft skills technical skills
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Author by nadiaaimePosted on Categories Cybersecurity, Motivational

As Cyber Week draws to a close today, it’s time to reflect on the invaluable insights gained and the strides made towards bolstering cybersecurity practices for entrepreneurs and small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) across Wallonia. Throughout the week, a series of key cybersecurity stakeholders, took a time in their day to provide either webinars and in-person workshops around topics such as GDPR, security best practices around website and mobile applications, cybersecurity best practices for small business, identity protection and Cloud adaptation strategy, it was a week spent sharing knowledge and illuminating the path towards a safer digital future.

A couple of key takeaways for this week :

1. Empowering Entrepreneurs and SMBs: A Shared Mission

At the heart of Cyber Week lay a shared mission: to empower entrepreneurs and SMBs with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the complex realm of cybersecurity. From understanding the importance of strong passwords to identifying common cyber threats, participants were equipped with practical strategies to safeguard their businesses against potential risks.

2. The Current State of Cybersecurity: A Closer Look

In today’s digital age, cybersecurity has never been more crucial. sad fact one third of Belgian SMEs were victims of a malicious attack in 2023. Among these affected companies, one out of four had to temporarily or completely halt their activities.

With the cybersecurity threat landscape evolving at an alarming pace, it’s crucial that all businesses of all sizes understand that they are vulnerable to attacks that can wreak havoc on their operations and reputation.

Cyber Week provided a platform to delve into the current state of cybersecurity, shedding light on the prevalent risks and vulnerabilities facing entrepreneurs and SMBs in Wallonia.

3. Evolution of the Digital World: Adapting to New Realities

The digital world is constantly evolving, presenting both opportunities and challenges for businesses. From the rise of remote work to the explosion of cloud-based technologies, the modern workplace is undergoing a profound transformation. Cyber Week served as a forum to explore how these changes impact cybersecurity practices and how businesses can adapt to stay ahead of the curve.

4. Securing Your Identity: A Common Theme

Throughout Cyber Week, one theme resonated loud and clear: the need to secure your identity. Whether it’s through the use of multifactor authentication (MFA) or implementing robust identity management solutions, protecting your digital identity is paramount in today’s interconnected world. Participants were urged to prioritize identity security as a cornerstone of their cybersecurity strategy.

As Cyber Week comes to an end, the journey towards a safer digital future is far from over. My message to the participants It’s essential to continue building on the knowledge gained during this initiative, implementing the cybersecurity measures and staying vigilant against emerging threats and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and resilience, businesses can navigate the evolving digital landscape with confidence and thrive in the face of adversity and remember to stay calm.

CyberWeek Wallonia
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Posted on Categories Cybersecurity, Data Protection, Privacy, Security

Phone numbers & personal data from 533 MILLION Facebook users leaked online

Two years ago Facebook had the greatest breach according to Alon Gal, a CTO of cybersecurity Hudson Rock security firm. 533 million Facebook users had their personal information leaked. The leak was discovered in January when the Facebook technical team was correcting certain vulnerabilities; the attackers had gotten access and…

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Author by nadiaaimePosted on Categories Featured, Motivational

Have you ever felt lost in life, not sure where you belong or what to do? I’ve been there. It’s like walking through a maze with no clear way out. But when times like these hit, everyone handles it differently. For me, having a mentor or a peer to talk to really made and continues to make a big difference.

I remember when I first started my career, and there were times I felt really overwhelmed. I looked at others who had been working for a long time and felt like I didn’t know enough. It made me wonder what I could bring to the table. I had all the passion and drive, but without a clear purpose, I felt lost.

As the saying goes, “Passion without purpose is like a ship without a compass, drifting aimlessly.”

This quote really resonates with me because it captures how I felt during that time. I had all this energy and enthusiasm, but I didn’t have a direction to channel it towards. I talked to my mentor about it, and they suggested I read a book called “StrengthsFinder.” They said it could help me figure out what I’m good at and how to use those strengths to do well in my job.

During our chats, my mentor brought up this idea. I decided to give it a try, hoping it might give me some clarity. As I read “StrengthsFinder,” I learned a lot about myself and what I’m good at.

In this blog post, I want to share my recommendation and experience using “StrengthsFinder” – to navigate your career transition, or simply better understand where you strength lies, cause as much as we think we know what we are good, you can sometimes be surprised of the unknown strengths and potential in you that remain unused.

Three Highlights from “StrengthsFinder”:

  1. Embracing Strengths: The book begins with a powerful message that i have always believed in: everyone possesses unique talents and abilities that, when identified and nurtured, can lead to fulfillment and accomplishment. Clifton argues that traditional methods of self-improvement often concentrate on fixing weaknesses, which can be a futile and sometimes demoralizing, Instead, he advocates for a strengths-based approach, where you identify your strengths and leverage them to excel in different aspects of your professional and personnel life.
  2. Practical Assessment: StrengthsFinder assessment, an online tool designed to uncover your top five strengths out of a list of 34 distinct themes. Through this assessment, you can gain invaluable insights into your core strengths, enabling you to tailor your personal and professional pursuits accordingly. Clifton emphasizes the importance of investing time and energy into developing these strengths can lead to a better result, rather than dwelling on your shortcomings.
  3. And finally, the book isn’t just about theories; it’s also packed with real-life stories that make its message easier to understand. Sometimes, it’s simpler to grasp something when we witness it in action – these stories demonstrate how embracing our strengths can truly benefit us. In “StrengthsFinder,” you’ll meet people from various backgrounds and occupations. Their stories show us how recognizing and utilizing our strengths can have a significant impact in different situations.

Recommendation:

I really recommend reading “StrengthsFinder 2.0,” especially if you’re starting a new job or thinking about what to do next in your career. This book is a great tool for understanding yourself better, both at work and in your personal life. It gives really helpful advice and practical tips on how to use your strengths effectively.

And remember, instead of worrying about what you don’t know, like my mentor and this book showed me, sometimes focusing on your strengths instead of what you aren’t good at, can make a big difference. One thing that’s true for everyone is that we all want to feel like we’re adding value and making a difference in whatever we do in life. So, by knowing what your superpowers are, you can truly start doing the things that make you shine and excel.

If you ever feel lost or unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to someone. You’d be surprised at how much a little support can do.

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Posted on Categories Cybersecurity, Data Protection, Featured

This Week, I Took a Deep Dive Into Sentinel & SAP — Here’s What I Learned

I had the chance to dive into Microsoft Sentinel’s Limited Preview SAP connector, and I have to say — it was fun. If you’ve ever tried integrating SAP with a security monitoring tool, you know the struggle. It’s complicated, requires a ton of manual configuration, and, after multiple customer conversation, the one…

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Author by nadiaaimePosted on Categories Advice, Cybersecurity, Featured

Transitioning into any field can be an exciting and rewarding yet the most terrifying thing one could do in life, especially when you are leaving behind the comfort of your past role,

And with the increasing importance of digital security in today’s world, there’s a growing demand for skilled professionals who can protect systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. However, entering the field can seem daunting, especially considering the diverse realms within cybersecurity.

I have had people reach out to me about my transition and where to start and i thought i would create a breakdown of the different multiverse realms found in cybersecurity and just look at the map below already gives you an idea how vast the domains can be and the pick a path that aligns with your interests and skills:

Let’s Break It Down A Bit :

1. Network Security: Network security focuses on protecting the integrity and confidentiality of data as it is transmitted across networks. This means keeping the data safe from unauthorized access or changes by maintaining confidentiality, integrity, and availability. It includes securing hardware and software like routers, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems and so much more.

2 . Identity & Access Management: My favorite area focuses on managing users’ identification, authentication, and authorization to access resources such as networks, systems, and applications. It helps ensure only the right user has access to the right resource.

2.a Identity Governance & Administration: Identity Governance plays a crucial role in ensuring the security and integrity of digital systems within organizations. It involves establishing and enforcing policies and procedures for managing user identities and their access to resources. By implementing identity governance practices, companies can maintain control over who has access to sensitive data and critical systems, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches.

3. Endpoint Security: Endpoint security involves securing devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets from cyber threats. This domain addresses issues like malware protection, data encryption, and access control mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access to endpoints.

4. Cloud Security: With the increasing adoption of cloud computing, cloud security has become vital to organizations today. This domain involves securing data, applications, and infrastructure hosted on cloud platforms. Professionals in cloud security focus on aspects like identity and access management, data encryption, and secure configuration of cloud services and so much more.

5. Application Security: Application security focuses on securing software applications from security vulnerabilities and threats. This area focuses on the techniques used to protect applications from threats and vulnerabilities from design to development and into the deployment and maintenance stages. It’s an important part of cyber security as applications are often a target for attacks.

6. Information Security Governance and Compliance: This area deals with establishing policies, procedures, and controls to ensure that an organization’s cybersecurity practices comply with relevant regulations and standards. Professionals in this area work on tasks such as risk management, compliance audits, and security policy development.

7. Cyber Threat Intelligence: This area involves gathering, analyzing, and disseminating information about cyber threats and malicious threat actors in the field. Roles in this domain work on identifying emerging threats, understanding adversary tactics and techniques, and providing actionable intelligence to defend against cyber attacks.

8. Incident Response and Forensics: Incident response and forensics focus on responding to cybersecurity incidents and investigating security breaches. This involves activities such as incident triage, containment, eradication, and recovery, as well as forensic analysis of digital evidence to identify the root cause of security incidents.

9. Security Operations: Security operations revolve around watching and analyzing security events and alerts to catch and respond to potential threats as they happen. This area covers activities like security monitoring, implementing SIEM (Security Information and Event Management), and engaging in threat hunting to find and address security risks before they become major issues. The security operations domain is crucial for the overall cybersecurity strategy, acting as a frontline defense to keep systems safe from potential cyber threats.

When picking a path in cybersecurity, consider the following factors:

1. What you enjoy and what you’re good at: Do you want to more hands-on and technical, or do you prefer working with people or do you want to be both: Identify your interests and skills within the realm of cybersecurity. Are you more interested in technical aspects like penetration testing and malware analysis, or do you prefer strategic roles such as risk management and compliance? For example i get energy when i combine my passion for people and technology so being customer facing, running security workshops and demos, speaking at conferences this are some of the things that gives me energy and by aligning what brings you passion to the day to day bustle will help you thrive even when the going gets hard.

2. Career Goals: Define your long-term career goals and aspirations in cybersecurity. Do you aspire to become a cybersecurity analyst, security architect, or chief information security officer (CISO)? Understanding your career goals can help you focus on the relevant skills and experiences needed to achieve them.

3. Industry Trends and Demand: Stay informed about industry trends and demand for specific cybersecurity roles and skills. Research job market trends, certifications, and emerging technologies to identify areas of high demand and opportunities for growth in the field.

4. Continuous Learning and Development: Cybersecurity is a dynamic and rapidly evolving field, so it’s essential to prioritize continuous learning and development. Invest in formal education, training programs, and industry certifications to stay abreast of the latest trends, tools, and best practices in cybersecurity.

5. Networking and Professional Development: I can’t stress this point further, build a strong professional network within the cybersecurity community by attending industry conferences, participating in online forums and communities, and connecting with experienced professionals in the field is key, and networking can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and career opportunities. I always like to say my career was somehow built on LinkedIn and thanks to the countless connection that helped me pave my way to today, so don’t neglect this part of the process.

Transitioning into a cybersecurity career comes with challenges that we should be mindful of:

  1. Technical Learning Curve: For those transitioning from non-technical backgrounds, grasping the technical intricacies of cybersecurity can be daunting. Concepts like encryption protocols, network configurations, and threat detection mechanisms may seem overwhelming at first. Learning these fundamentals takes time and dedication, and you should be prepared to invest in continuous learning to bridge the gap.
  2. Embracing Lifelong Learning: As you embark on your journey into cybersecurity, embrace the learning process wholeheartedly. Recognize that there’s a lot to absorb, especially if you’re coming from a non-technical background, the cybersecurity landscape evolves rapidly, with new threats emerging and technology advancing at a rapid pace. And by going down this path we kind of have to commit to lifelong learning to stay relevant and effective in our chose roles and this means staying updated on the latest trends, tools, and best practices through continuous learning, certifications, and hands-on experience.
  3. Embrace the power of AI in your career: can be a game-changer. As I sometimes find myself needing to write quick KQL query or a lines of code, seeing Chat GPT generate them in seconds still blows my mind. I remember the fun I had researching why my code wasn’t working ;-), and now we have AI and the countless of tools that can help us understand different industry concepts/terms, find useful resources to improve our transition. It’s like having a smart assistant guiding you through your career journey, making everything smoother and more efficient. So, don’t hesitate to leverage and learn about AI as you transition into a new career—it’s your ally in achieving your goals and staying competitive in today’s fast-paced field.
  4. There’s a lot to learn but still be mindful about Burnout: The demanding nature of cybersecurity roles can lead to burnout if individuals fail to prioritize self-care and establish healthy boundaries. Without proper self-care practices in place, burnout becomes a real risk. So set realistic and achievable expectations and goals for yourself, and carve out time for rest and recharge to prevent burnout and maintain long-term career sustainability.
  5. Don’t Skip The Basics: Begin by familiarizing yourself with fundamental concepts such as network security, encryption, and threat detection. Understand how different technologies and protocols work together to safeguard systems and data against cyber threats. Focus on mastering core concepts before delving into more specialized areas within cybersecurity.
  6. Nothing Beats Hands-On Experience: Theory is important, but practical experience is invaluable in cybersecurity. Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience through internships, part-time roles, or volunteering for cybersecurity projects and events. Participate in capture-the-flag (CTF) competitions, cybersecurity workshops, and hackathons to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios and develop practical skills and my wish for you is you finally land that entry-level role where you can fully immerse yourself in the cybersecurity world and thrive one day at a time.

Remember to be patient with yourself as you transition or navigate the early in career process, keep learning, stay updated on industry trends, all this while still prioritize self-care and although i know that this can’t really be considered as the ultimate guide to landing yourself in a cybersecurity position unfortunately no magical line of code for that(hopefully soon), I do hope it can be of use to anyone starting out and needing guidance and a small light of hope and proof that you will eventually reap the fruits of your hard work one day so don’t give up.

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Posted on Categories Featured, Life, Motivational

Hello September

As the warmth of summer fades and the days grow shorter, there’s a palpable shift in the air. September marks the beginning of a new chapter—a season of transition and reflection. The end of summer can often feel bittersweet, a reminder that time marches on. But this period also brings…

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Posted on Categories Cybersecurity, Data Protection, Privacy, Security

Phone numbers & personal data from 533 MILLION Facebook users leaked online

Two years ago Facebook had the greatest breach according to Alon Gal, a CTO of cybersecurity Hudson Rock security firm. 533 million Facebook users had their personal information leaked. The leak was discovered in January when the Facebook technical team was correcting certain vulnerabilities; the attackers had gotten access and…

Read More
0
Author by nadiaaimePosted on Categories Cybersecurity, Featured, Women In Tech, Working Mom

As Women’s Day unfolds today, I find myself reflecting and celebrating—a moment to honor the remarkable journeys of women everywhere. These journeys are as diverse as the women themselves, filled with challenges, triumphs, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. For me, Women’s Day is not only a time to celebrate the achievements of women around the world but also an opportunity to reflect upon our own journeys—a journey marked by resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief in the power of possibility.

One of my favorite memories will always be : Feeding my daughter while watching John Savill explain Identity & Access Management, school drop-offs with late-night lab sessions, It wasn’t easy, and there were moments when I questioned if I was doing the right thing, change is hard.

Transitioning into cybersecurity felt like stepping into Disney world with no map.

But here we are, three years later, still learning and growing, but thriving beyond what I imagined and hoped for, despite the uncertainty, i am forever grateful that i followed through, i had no idea what going down this path would mean for me i didn’t even know if i was going to make it, but every challenge brought new lessons and strengths.

For those hesitant to take the leap, here are three simple actions:

  1. Take the Leap: Sometimes, the hardest part is simply starting.
  2. Embrace Change: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Growth happens when we embrace new experiences and challenges.
  3. Believe in Yourself: Trust your abilities and your dreams. You have what it takes to succeed, even if the path seems unclear.

In cybersecurity, there’s room for everyone, regardless of background or experience. It’s a field that values and needs diversity and innovation. So, whether you’re a stay-at-home mom, a recent graduate, or simply passionate about technology, know that there’s a place for you.

So to every woman who has ever dared to dream, who has ever dared to defy expectations, and who has ever dared to challenge the status quo—this day and every day is for you. May we continue to stand together, lift each other up, and inspire change in a world that needs our voices, our leadership, and our unwavering determination.

And to our male allies, who stand beside us in solidarity and support, we thank you. Your partnership is invaluable and the foundation on which we work together to create a more inclusive and equitable world for all generation to come.

Happy Women’s Day, everyone! Let’s keep shining bright.

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Author by nadiaaimePosted on Categories Uncategorized

What does passion mean to you?

Passion is a word that is often used to describe a feeling of enthusiasm, interest, or love for something or someone. But what does it really mean to be passionate about something?

There is no definitive answer to these questions, as passion is a subjective and personal experience that can be different from person to person.

Since I made my jump into cybersecurity, I have to admit I love cybersecurity and everyday I’m glad I made the switch and at the same time I am glad I’m passionate about it, cause even though there are days where you might feel like the world is against you and nothing works as it should, you still have the motivation and curiosity to keep learning and improving your skills. Cybersecurity is not just a job for me, it’s a lifestyle and a challenge that I enjoy every day, and i guess it shows, i have had a lot of people ask me how I did it and what advice I have for them and the first thing that comes to mind is Are You Passionate About It ? cause career transitions are not easy, i think its one of the most bravest thing a person can do, I mean imagine trading the known for the unknown

So Why Do I Ask “Are You Passionate About It ? “

Passion is more than just liking something or being good at something, i mean repeat something 100 times and you can probably do it in your sleep, for me passion is that deep and enduring interest that motivates you to keep learning everyday, passion is what makes you wake up in the morning with enthusiasm and energy despite staying up all night with your grumpy toddler, and what keeps you going back even when things get hard, your even more motivated to simplify the complex , passion is what gives meaning and purpose to your work, and what makes you feel fulfilled and happy and you know without it, your life wouldn’t be as complete.

But how do you find your passion? And how do you make it the foundation of your career transition? Here are some of my thoughts on this:

  • Reflect on your values, strengths, and interests. What are the things that matter most to you in life? What are your transferable skills and talents that you enjoy using, is it teaching ? speaking? working with data? What are the topics or issues that spark your curiosity and creativity? These are clues to your passion, and they can help guide you towards finding a career within cybersecurity or another sector.
  • Freely explore different options and connect Don’t limit yourself to what you already know or what others expect from you. Be open-minded and curious about different fields and industries that might suit your passion even without you knowing . Do your research, talk to people who work in those areas, or try some online courses or workshops, or even ask ChatGTP, this part has to be done by you, cause only then will you discover new possibilities that excite you and match with who you are.
  • Experiment and l keep learn. Finding your passion is not a one-time event, but a process of trial and error. You might have to try different things before you find what works for you. and yes this is the part i tell you don’t be afraid to fail or make mistakes, but use them as opportunities to learn and grow from it and something i learnt Seek feedback from others who can help you grow, such as mentors, coaches, or peers. And please don’t be to hard on yourself, celebrate your milestones along the way.
  • Commit and persevere. one of my favorites’ quotes “Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.” —Oprah Winfrey once you find your passion, don’t let go of it. Make it your priority and invest time and energy into developing it, and please set realistic and specific goals for yourself cause their is no point in setting yourself for failure, I remember being newly certified and telling myself and my manager that I wanted to pass 6 certification a year, and when i didn’t achieve my goal i felt like a complete failure, forgetting to celebrate all the things i learnt and achieved in that year 😉, so create a plan to achieve but be kind to yourself regardless of the outcome.
  • And remember when the going gets tough, don’t let your fire die out. You chose this path for a reason, and it makes you happy, so remember why you chose this path, and how it makes you feel. Keep your passion alive by constantly learning new things, seeking new experiences, and connecting with others who share it.

Making passion your foundation while transitioning into a new career can make a huge difference cause at the end of the day as humans, we want our work/life to mean something. We don’t want to spend our days doing tasks that don’t matter to us. We want to feel fulfilled, challenged and valued, I mean, we all have been there. Waking up for a job that causes dread and anxiety. Feeling like you have no choice but to drag yourself out of bed and face another day of misery, wondering if there is more to life than this endless cycle of work and stress. We want to use our skills and talents to make a positive impact. We want to work with people who share our vision and passion. We want our work life to be more than just a paycheck, but a source of joy and purpose.

So, yes make that career transition into cybersecurity or into tech, but all I ask, don’t just do it for the money or the status or the hype. Do it because you love it. Do it because you’re curious and passionate about how technology works and how it can make the world a better place. Do it because you want to learn new skills and challenge yourself every day. Do it because you want to be part of a community of like-minded people who share your vision and values.

There’s so much to discover and explore in the tech and cybersecurity field. It’s not just about coding or hacking or fixing bugs. It’s about creating solutions, innovating products, protecting data, empowering users, and making an impact. It’s about finding your niche, your specialty, your passion. And that’s what will make your career transition successful and fulfilling.

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Author by nadiaaimePosted on Categories Cybersecurity, Security

One of the most exciting parts of being a security technical specialist is the opportunities to face and solve different challenges with our customers. I enjoy diving into research mode and finding the best solutions for their security needs.

This month, we had a customer security session where we encountered a blocker that required some investigation and collaboration, the other thing i love about my role is the access to security knowledge and expertise within the Microsoft network, people who are ready to jump in and share and suggest alternative ways I could tackle my blocker.

In this blog post, I wanted to share one of my demo discoveries that I hope you find useful and informative when using Microsoft Defender.

No alt text provided for this image

One of my focus solutions is the defender suite which is a set of enterprise security products and services that provide comprehensive protection against sophisticated cyberattacks.

The defender suite includes:

  • Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
  • Microsoft Defender for Office 365
  • Microsoft Defender for Identity,
  • Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps

Today I am going to mainly focus on the Microsoft Defender for Identity (previously referred to as the Azure Advanced Threat Protection) which is a cloud-based security solution that helps you protect your on-premises identities from advanced threats and malicious insiders. It monitors and analyzes user activities and behaviors in your network, detects anomalies and suspicious events, and provides you with tools to investigate and respond to incidents.

What’s New?

MDI was usually seen as a monitoring tool but that has changed since March, a new set of capabilities have been added that gives MDI the ability to set remediation actions in response to a compromised identity.

How does it work :

  • A sensor installed on each domain controller in your environment. The sensor collects and analyzes data from Active Directory and sends it to the cloud service.
  • A gMSA (group Managed Service Account) configured for the sensor. The gMSA allows the sensor to impersonate a domain account with the necessary permissions to perform remediation actions on user accounts.
  • The remediation permissions granted to the gMSA account. You can use the built-in role “Defender for Identity Remediation” or create a custom role with the required permissions.

Once you have these prerequisites, you can perform remediation actions on user accounts from various pages in the Microsoft Defender for Identity portal, such as:

  • The user page: You can view the details of a user account, such as its activities, alerts, and lateral movement paths. You can also disable or change the password of the user account from this page.
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  • The advanced hunting page: You can run custom queries to find user accounts that match certain criteria, such as suspicious logins, password changes, or group memberships. You can also disable or change the password of the user accounts from this page and too add some automated function you could create a detection rule from the query to trigger the remediation action, you can see how from the video below.
  • The action center: You can view the history of all remediation actions performed by you or other users in your organization. You can also undo or redo any remediation action from this page.

With this feature release, Microsoft’s XDR experience just become even more powerful. Security teams can now manage all their identities in Microsoft 365 Defender and link them to detections from other workloads (such as endpoint, Office 365 and cloud apps). This enables faster and more effective threat identification and response.

Microsoft security is always evolving and improving, so there is never a dull moment and one of the most rewarding is the opportunity to explore and learn about the various features and configurations, every day, I encounter new scenarios and challenges that I decided to document share.

Microsoft Defender for Identity Response Actions – Microsoft Community Hub

The views and opinions expressed in this blog are my own

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Posted on Categories Cybersecurity, Data Protection, Featured

This Week, I Took a Deep Dive Into Sentinel & SAP — Here’s What I Learned

I had the chance to dive into Microsoft Sentinel’s Limited Preview SAP connector, and I have to say — it was fun. If you’ve ever tried integrating SAP with a security monitoring tool, you know the struggle. It’s complicated, requires a ton of manual configuration, and, after multiple customer conversation, the one…

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Author by nadiaaimePosted on Categories Advice, Entrepreneurship, Women In Tech, Working Mom

Walk with the dreamers, the believers, the courageous, the cheerful, the planners, the doers, the successful people with their heads in the clouds and their feet on the ground

If there’s one word that could define 2020, that would be – confusion. We all started the year on a very high note, as a new decade had started, we were all determined to make the most out of 2020. Then came March and Covid-19, and boom, the world shut down, many people lost their jobs, and many couldn’t stay motivated due to the overall atmosphere of the world throughout 2020, we were forced out of our comfort zones and had to adapt quickly to unprecedented change.

Am sure you would agree that that 2020 will go down in the history, however, despite what has been taken from all of us i have to admit and am sure many of you would agree that we have been given perspective and appreciation, our eyes were forced open to truly see the value of our every day human relationships, the value of traveling across the world, the value of hugging our family and friend or even the little drink with friends, the value of a restaurant, the value of each person person that we pass by and so much more. Am the first to admit that despite being present everyday for my family and going through our daily routine, I actually sometimes forgot how much I have to be thankful for until i was forced to stop and add it all up and see so many people loose so much..

What 2020 also forced taught us was the need to be able to adapt in life, So am sure we are all making plans for 2021 but how to plan when the future is so uncertain ? Well for me I think it’s important to set adaptable goals in case this year takes yet another twist or turn.

Here’s my plan for how i plan 2021 more smartly.

A quick tip: Don’t just assume the following points in your head, write them down, it will give you a lot more clarity & perspective.

Review and Reflect on the Past Year On What Lessons You Learned

One of the best ways to plan for the future year is to reflect on the past, Identify the learnings from your experiences. While you’re reflecting, try answering the following questions too:

  • What was the most important learning?
  • What new habits did you start??
  • What new skills did you learn?
  • What were the blessings that you were grateful most for?
  • What did you do for your career growth?
  • What is your intention for next year?
  • If you could only achieve one big thing this year, what would it be? 

With this type of questions in mind they always help me reflect on my lessons from the past 12 months, but they also help to inspire me to plan ahead for this new year.

Always Be Willing to Adapt and Make a System

Once you’ve reflected and written down the learnings, think about how you can apply the learnings and go with a proper system. Here, ask yourself:

  • What are the habits are you going to go forward with?
  • What are you going to do differently?
  • Write a letter to your future-self [31-12-2021]. Write all the things you’re going to do that will make you satisfied, professionally and personally. Read this letter every month of this year.
  • Focus on the areas that you want to improve.

Create an Action Plan Don’t Wing It

You now know the learnings and what you want to do better in 2021. Let’s plan it now!

  • Elaborate and break down the things you said you’ll do differently, what actions do you need to take throughout the year.
  • The areas that you decided you’ll focus on, elaborate them as well, for example, I want to increase my intellect, hence I’ll read more books, and break it down, even more, I’ll finish 1 book in a week.
  • Just start practising, don’t wait for tomorrow.

It’s important to think about the small things that you can change, that will help you to achieve you your goals.

Despite the threat of the new Covid variant, we are still unsure whether life would go back to normal or we’ll have to adapt yet again to the ‘new normal’, one more time. So remember stay flexible, but always have a plan.


Happy planning & stay safe!

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Please let me know by leaving a comment below and tag @she_is_digital on Instagram.

womenintech entrepreneurship business newyear
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