“Be the person you needed when you were younger”

Boikokobetso Makhetloane

Category

Education
 

Organisation / Company

RSM South Africa

 

Position

IT and cybersecurity manager

 

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Profile

A visionary in cybersecurity and digital education, is the IT and cybersecurity manager at RSM South Africa, where he secures digital infrastructure while translating technical risks into business solutions. But it is his commitment to education that sets him apart. Through mentorship sessions, he supports under-resourced youth with digital skills, goal-setting and personal development — providing the kind of guidance he once sought. Boikokobetso reaches wide audiences through school visits, social media content and public speaking. His cybersecurity insights have empowered 25 000 people, many encountering digital literacy for the first time. His podcast opens doors into the cybersecurity world by sharing stories from diverse professionals, and his children’s book sparks curiosity in early learners — building digital awareness from a young age. Entirely self-taught, he holds globally recognised certifications in cloud security, ethical hacking and IT governance. His work is grounded in empathy and the belief that education should be accessible at every stage of life. Boikokobetso’s mission is a legacy: to uplift others through knowledge and leave behind a digital footprint rooted in purpose.

Qualifications

Cybersecurity & IT Certifications: in Cloud Security & Platforms – Threat Intelligence & Offensive Security – Risk Management, Compliance & Governance – Security Operations & Defence

Achievements

  • Using social media to educate, inspire and empower, reaching and positively impacting more than 25 000 people of all ages by simplifying cybersecurity, guiding career development and building self-confidence
  • Launched a cybersecurity podcast, providing a platform for professionals to share their journeys, challenges and insights. These conversations promote mentorship and accessible knowledge for people from diverse backgrounds
  • Published a children’s book to inspire confidence and imagination in young readers, aligning with a broader mission to make knowledge and empowerment accessible from an early age

Mentors

I have been fortunate to have a few incredible role models and mentors who have deeply influenced my journey, both personally and professionally. One person I greatly admire is the late Dr Myles Munroe. His teachings on purpose, leadership and vision taught me that life is about serving others with your gifts. He often spoke about “dying empty” — the idea of leaving nothing within you, using all your talents to make the world better. That message still drives much of the work I do today, especially in mentoring and community initiatives. Another major influence is Dr Benjamin Hardy. His content, especially around identity and the “future self”, has had a huge impact on the way I set goals and stay committed to long-term growth. His perspective has helped me become more intentional with my time, habits and mindset. In the cybersecurity space, Nadia Veeran-Patel has played a powerful role in my career development. She has believed in me, challenged me to grow and encouraged me to step up in moments when I doubted myself. Her guidance has helped me build confidence and clarity in my path. Lastly, Darren McKinley has been a mentor, a coach and a constant source of support. He has pushed me past my comfort zone, helped me recognise my worth and always reminded me that if I can imagine it, I can create it. His leadership style and ability to see the potential in others have influenced the way I mentor and lead as well. Each of these individuals has contributed to the person I am becoming. They have shaped how I think, how I serve others and how I keep growing.