"Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom." - Aristotle
Hi, I’m Olanrewaju malomo.
My Journey Into the World of IT and Cybersecurity
But you might know me better as Larry Malomo. From the moment I first encountered the buzzing sound of a dial-up internet connection at the tender age of 6, my curiosity and passion for technology were ignited. That initial fascination, sparked in an internet cafe alongside my uncle and older brother, grew into a lifelong pursuit. Yahoo's homepage, especially the autos section, was my gateway to the endless possibilities that technology could offer, fuelling not just my interest in the digital world but also a budding love for cars.
Throughout high school, my affinity for computers blossomed. I became the go-to tech guru among my peers, often navigating through proxies to bypass internet restrictions. Inspired by the cinematic portrayal of hackers, I delved into the realm of IT, driven by a desire to one day be able to do the cool tricks I have seen on screen. When asked about my future ambitions in my high school yearbook, I envisioned myself excelling in IT—a dream I've tirelessly pursued.
Choosing a Unique Path
Coming from a family with a strong tradition in medical careers, my decision to dive into the world of technology and pursue a bachelor’s degree in a field far removed from medicine was a significant divergence. Selecting a field of study wasn’t hard for me, thanks to my deep interest in technology. Yet, choosing BSc. Management Information Systems (MIS) was a deliberate step that allowed me to blend my passion for computer science with a foundational knowledge in business.
This unique combination of computer science and business set me on a path distinctly different from the norm within my family, marking a journey both challenging and rewarding. Although the business components of the MIS degree proved difficult at times, I pushed through the struggles. The perseverance paid off, as the insights gained from these business principles have proven invaluable in my career, particularly in understanding the broader context in which technology and cybersecurity operate.
Embarking on a Cybersecurity Adventure
After gaining my BSc degree and working a few years in IT, I felt drawn to what came next. Cyber Security caught my eye because it seemed like the perfect way to use my passion for technology to really make a difference. The idea of protecting the online world from threats felt right to me, like something I was meant to do. This led me to pursuing and gaining a Master of Cyber Security degree.
Getting into cybersecurity was more than just a change in my career path; it felt like I was answering a call. Every job I've taken and every certification I've gotten has been a step forward in this important field. This journey has been all about following my passion and using what I've learned to help make the internet a safer place for everyone.
Bridging the Gap in IT and Cybersecurity Solutions
Throughout my career, I've embraced a range of pivotal positions, underscoring my depth and adaptability within the IT and Cyber Security sectors. I started as an IT Support Technician, and from there, moved up through roles like System Administrator and Network Administrator. I also worked as an End User Computing Systems Engineer and Network Engineer. Later, I became a Network and Security Administrator, and then a Senior Network and Security Administrator, before taking on a leadership role as a Cyber Security Manager at a company with multi-billion-dollar valuation. On top of this, I was a Principal Instructor for a Cyber Security Bootcamp, where I mentored and shared my knowledge with others. All these experiences have given me the confidence to navigate and resolve a broad spectrum of IT and Cyber Security challenges, even at the highest level of corporate leadership.
Looking Forward
Today, as I look to the future, my focus is on leveraging my extensive experience and passion for technology to support businesses and individuals navigating the complex landscape of IT and cybersecurity. My journey from a curious child in an internet cafe to a professional thriving in the cybersecurity domain underlines my commitment and enthusiasm for this ever-evolving field. I'm eager to share my knowledge, experiences, and the lessons learned along the way to empower and protect in the digital age.