Elizabeth Ogunmola, a Computer Science student and aspiring Cloud & Security Engineer, has emerged winner in the recently held Blackbox hackathon, a virtual cybersecurity competition organised by technology outfit INCATA.
According to CEO, Victor Audu, the program aims to develop, promote and reward young African technology enthusiasts.
“INCATA Blackbox aims to develop and discover African talents for the booming Artificial Technology (AI) and Cybersecurity fields. It reflects our continuous commitment to capacity development in the emerging digital technology fields,” said Audu.
“At INCATA, we want to become a nexus for Africa’s brightest minds in technology and cybersecurity, fostering innovation and building a resilient digital future. With increased awareness and capacity, African youths will better fit in into the digital technology future of the continent,” he added.
INCATA is a collaborative platform for technology professionals and enthusiasts around the world to facilitate and advocate cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and technological advancements across Africa. The outfit organizes regular workshops, seminars and hackathons.
The Blackbox hackathon was held virtually via a portal over a period of three days, with young people solving various cybersecurity quizzes. Vetting and judging also took place online via the portal. Judges in the competition include Letsui Nkenfak, Cybersecurity expert at the Union Bank of Cameroon; Wilson Adenuga, Co-lead, GDG Stroke on Trent and pioneer project engineer for Nigeria’s fintech fraud detection platform, Reporta; and Erastus Ogbonna, UK-based Cybersecurity and AI expert.
According to Letsui Nkenfack, every one of the participants demonstrated strength and resilience in the face of the challenges thrown to them.
“Congratulations to the winners. Your outstanding achievements and creative solutions have earned you this well-deserved recognition. May your success inspire others and propel you to even greater heights.
“To all participants, we celebrate your efforts and look forward to seeing the impact of your work in the future. Keep pushing boundaries and striving for excellence!”
“The competition may be over, but your cybersecurity journey is just beginning. Whether you won or not, you’ve all grown as security professionals and problem solvers,” said Wilson Adenuga, another judge in the competition.
“Don’t stop here. Keep learning, keep practicing, and keep exploring new attack vectors and defense strategies,” he advised the participants.
According to the keynote speaker at the finale, Sarah Adeola Adeoti, Software Engineer at Sproxil, the art of protecting digital spaces matters now more than ever as the role of AI becomes increasingly important.
“Keep that fire burning and continue making the cyber world safer for everyone. The learning never stops in cybersecurity,” she said.
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