Thabang Phala is the Chief Empowerment Officer (CEO) of CyberM8 and a dedicated leader in the ICT sector with a passion for youth development and cybersecurity. With over 12 years of experience, he has been at the forefront of designing impactful cybersecurity training programmes and awareness campaigns, equipping individuals and organisations with the tools to thrive in the digital age. Thabang’s commitment to innovation and empowerment has established him as a recognised thought leader, making significant contributions to both the ICT industry and community development initiatives.
Doreen is a skilled Cybersecurity Professional with vast experience in regulatory compliance, data privacy, and IT governance. In 2020, she founded Cybersec Clinique, offering database security, threat modelling, and managed security services in South African mines. The company was honoured as the 2022 Entrepreneurship Education of the Year by the Africa Startup Ecosystem Builders. An advocate for women‘s participation in cybersecurity, Doreen mentors and judges hackathons. She’s recognised by Geekulcha, Mail & Guardian, and Top 50 Women in Cybersecurity Africa. Her passion for digital inclusivity and resilient infrastructure makes her a key figure in South Africa’s tech industry.
Manqoba Mngomezulu, known as Q, is a cybersecurity expert and director of Inpassion, specialising in cybersecurity consulting, awareness, recruitment, and POPIA compliance. Since 2008, he has worked across various sectors, including telecommunications and non-profits. His skills include IT risk management, PCI DSS compliance, and cybersecurity operations. Manqoba holds CISM and SCF-SABSA certifications and completed a Business Development Programme at GIBS. He is a member of ISACA and author of several books on cybersecurity, including the best-seller "Bring Back My Identity."
Sphokazi Ngobese is a forward-thinking professional with a strong passion for safeguarding digital assets and fostering secure online environments. Her expertise in cybersecurity analysis, system support, and virtual assistance forms a robust foundation for her role as Projects Manager at CyberM8 Initiative NPC, where she is dedicated to advancing digital security solutions and empowering communities through technology.
As an aspiring cybersecurity expert and (ISC)² candidate, Sphokazi is committed to tackling complex cybersecurity challenges by staying at the forefront of emerging technologies and trends. Her skill set includes ethical hacking, threat detection, and vulnerability assessments, all aimed at helping organisations mitigate risks and protect their digital ecosystems.
Beyond her technical expertise, Sphokazi is deeply invested in internet governance and advocates for equitable and sustainable digital policies. This global perspective informs her strategic approach to managing impactful projects that enhance cybersecurity awareness and resilience.