My Journey from Banking and Finance to Cybersecurity

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How I transitioned from crunching numbers to chasing vulnerabilities and found my true passion in IT

🔰 Introduction

When people hear "Banking and Finance graduate," they rarely picture someone running vulnerability scans or studying penetration testing tools. But here I am, an IT Officer with a background in Finance and a growing passion for cybersecurity.

This is the story of how I transitioned from spreadsheets and financial theories to networks, terminals, and security labs. It’s not just a career pivot; it’s the pursuit of something that truly excites me.

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👦🏽 Where It All Started

My interest in technology began back in senior high school. I was the go-to person for setting up phones, configuring Facebook and Google accounts, and fixing basic phone issues for friends. I didn’t realize it then, but that curiosity was the seed of something bigger.

Later in university, while studying for my degree in Banking and Finance, I found myself helping colleagues troubleshoot their PCs. It wasn’t part of my curriculum, but I enjoyed it more than anything else. One day, I noticed something: I spent more time researching tech topics on my laptop than studying accounting.

That realization changed everything.

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💡 The Turning Point

In my second year at university, I made a decision: explore IT seriously. I began taking online courses, free ones, from platforms like YouTube, Coursera, Cisco, ISC2, and TCM Security. I earned unofficial certificates, but more importantly, I gained real understanding.

Even though I had no formal education in IT, I fell in love with cybersecurity, especially penetration testing. I knew I wanted to go deeper.

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💥 The Fear Was Real

Making the switch wasn’t easy. I had performed well academically in Finance and was on track for a good career in that field. But I couldn’t ignore the calling.

In Sierra Leone, where I’m based, the job market is especially tough. Even degree holders with experience struggle. I feared that without an IT degree or official certifications, I’d never get my foot in the door.

But I kept learning. I kept building.

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🚀 First Break: From IT Audit Intern to IT Officer

Eventually, I applied for an audit internship. During the interview, the panel noticed my IT-related certificates and pivoted the conversation. They were impressed and brought me on as an IT Audit Intern instead.

Two months later, the IT Manager requested my transfer to the main IT department. I continued learning, supporting staff, and completing labs, and then came the big moment: I was offered a permanent role as an IT Officer.

That moment validated everything I had worked for.

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🧪 Building Skills Through Labs and Projects

Today, I continue to build my skills in penetration testing. I’ve completed labs, worked on practical projects, and supported real users. The positive feedback keeps me motivated.

Each completed lab is a step closer to my goal. And with every task I handle at work, I learn something new.

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🧭 Long-Term Vision: Hexafort Security

My long-term goal is to become a top-tier penetration tester and founder of a cybersecurity company: Hexafort Security.

I envision Hexafort as a trusted provider of cybersecurity services, helping businesses protect their data and IT infrastructure. I want to share everything I learn along the way, starting with this blog.

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💬 A Word to Career Changers

To anyone thinking of switching careers into tech, here’s my advice:

Follow your passion, but prepare to pay the price. Be consistent, stay motivated, and keep learning even when no one is watching.

One story that gave me strength was that of @Heath Adams, founder of @TCM Security. Like me, he transitioned from Accounting to Cybersecurity and is now one of the most respected penetration testers in the world.

If he made it, so can you.

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🙌🏼 Thank You for Reading

This blog marks the beginning of a new chapter, not just for me, but hopefully for others like me. I’ll be sharing my projects, tutorials, and lessons as I grow in this field.

Thanks for being part of the journey.