Empowering the Next Generation
of Cybersecurity Talent
Who we are
About 1000 Pentesters for Africa
1000 Pentesters for Africa is an initiative by Cyber Intelligent Systems, a trusted leader in corporate cybersecurity. Founded with a mission to bridge the skills gap in cybersecurity, we provide high-quality training for aspiring professionals, IT specialists looking to advance their careers, and companies aiming to upskill their teams. Backed by real-world expertise, our courses offer hands-on, industry-relevant learning to equip the next generation of ethical hackers, security analysts, and cybersecurity experts across Africa.
Students will have the opportunity to gain crucial real life cybersecurity skills by being exposed to real ongoing projects through our Cybersecurity company, Cyber Intelligent Systems
Students will have the opportunity to gain crucial real life cybersecurity skills by being exposed to real ongoing projects through our Cybersecurity company, Cyber Intelligent Systems
Our Mission
To train and certify 1,000 ethical hackers from underrepresented and underserved communities across Africa, creating a sustainable pipeline of cybersecurity professionals who are ready to defend the digital future.
Why This Matters
Cybersecurity threats are escalating. Yet across Africa, organisations struggle to find the skilled talent needed to respond. At the same time, millions of digitally-native young Africans remain excluded from high-growth tech careers.
We are solving both problems at once.
Built for Impact & Inclusion
We prioritise diversity, equity, and access with a focus on students from underserved regions and non-traditional backgrounds. Through full-time study, stipends, sponsored equipment, and guided mentorship, we remove barriers and unlock potential.
Quality Learning Support
We offer courses in cloud security, ethical hacking, encryption, and so much more.
We also have a trusted team of experts who will teach students what they need to know.
Why We Invest in the Youth
Africa’s greatest untapped cybersecurity asset is its youth. This generation has grown up immersed in technology: gaming, mobile apps, and digital media are part of their DNA. By channeling this familiarity into structured learning, we ignite curiosity and engagement in a way that feels natural and rewarding.
Through our program’s culture of coaching, mentoring, and collaboration, we guide learners not just to master tools, but to cultivate critical thinking, digital ethics, and teamwork. This prepares them to face not only today’s threats but tomorrow’s - from sophisticated cybercrime to the ethical dilemmas of AI adoption.
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Why Penetration Testing
is the Foundation of Our Training
At the heart of our program lies penetration testing — not only as a technical discipline but as a mindset. To defend effectively, one must
first understand how adversaries think and operate. Penetration testing develops this attacker’s perspective, enabling learners to uncover
and exploit vulnerabilities in controlled environments.
This hands-on exposure helps our trainees grasp:
Frequently asked questions
What is the 1000Pentesters for South Africa program?
The 1000Pentesters for South Africa program is a real-world, immersive cybersecurity training initiative developed by CyberIntelligent Systems. Instead of traditional classroom learning, participants gain hands-on experience through live operations in our security operations centre, real-world labs, and mentorship. The program is designed to develop world-class cyber talent within South Africa, focusing on the untapped potential of the youth.
What makes this program different from other cybersecurity training programs?
Unlike purely academic courses, our program is built on real-world experience. Participants not only prepare for globally recognized certifications like CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), but they also immersed directly on live security operations, guided by active professionals who defend South Africa’s digital borders. In addition, the program emphasizes ethical responsibility, teamwork, leadership, and includes ongoing mentorship and career development.
Who leads the 1000Pentesters program?
The program is led by seasoned cybersecurity professionals from CyberIntelligent Systems, who have real-world experience defending financial institutions, public sector entities, and critical infrastructure in South Africa. Our team collaborates with global cybersecurity leaders and communities such as Black Hat, DEF CON, and Black Hills Information Security, ensuring our training is aligned with the highest international standards.
How can organizations partner or support this initiative?
We are actively seeking funding partners and social impact collaborators to help scale this nationally significant program. By partnering with us, organizations can invest in South Africa’s future cyber talent, create meaningful social impact, and help secure the country’s digital future. To date, CyberIntelligent Systems has already trained over 20 interns through internal funding, many of whom are now employed in real cybersecurity roles.
Become a Partner
Join the movement
Invest in South Africa’s Cyber Future
South Africa faces a critical crossroads: while youth unemployment remains among the highest in the world, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is soaring. The 1000 Pentesters for Africa program offers a powerful solution — equipping underserved youth with world-class training, real-world experience, and globally recognised certifications.
Your partnership creates meaningful, measurable impact — helping develop the next generation of cyber defenders while contributing to Corporate Social Investment (CSI), digital transformation, and national security objectives.
👉 Partner with us to empower youth, strengthen national resilience, and help build a digitally secure South Africa.
OUR TEAM
We consist of a team of experts in the cybersecurity community. In collaboration with our partners, the ongoing program provides support and technical coaching by dedicated mentors for guidance to navigate the challenges faced by cybersecurity professionals.
1000 Pentesters community
Meet our team
Michelle Khoza
Student Mentor & Facilitator
As a mentor and facilitator, my role is to guide students throughout their journey in the program. I ensure they have access to the support, resources, and encouragement they need to thrive. I also assist with both their theoretical and practical assignments, offering constructive feedback to help them grow in confidence, skill, and professional readiness.
Phuti Dikgale
SOC Analyst & Cybersecurity Trainer
Top of the morning!
My role spans both sides of the cybersecurity spectrum, which is why I proudly say my blood is purple. I contribute to Red Team activities through ethical hacking projects and offensive security simulations. On the Blue Team side, I serve as a SOC analyst and facilitator for our Cyber Defender Course, helping students understand how to detect, respond to, and prevent cyber threats. I'm passionate about bridging both worlds and guiding future cybersecurity professionals through real-world insight and mentorship.
Adil Salim
Pentester & Cybersecurity Analyst
My role involves ethically testing the systems and infrastructure of our clients to identify vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them. I also play a key part in safeguarding the digital environments of the organisations we work with. Through 1000 Pentesters for Africa, I aim to share my knowledge and experience with students, helping them develop the mindset and skills needed to become the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
Dayne de Lange
Lead Pentester & Student Mentor
Online learning and training have become an essential part of our society. LearnWorlds is one of the top platforms to create and sell online courses.
Thaddeus de Lange
Senior product manager
Online learning and training have become an essential part of our society. LearnWorlds is one of the top platforms to create and sell online courses.
George-Paul de Lange
Founder
Online learning and training have become an essential part of our society. LearnWorlds is one of the top platforms to create and sell online courses.
We invite aspiring cybersecurity enthusiasts and professionals to join our mission. Whether you're seeking to elevate your professional trajectory or make a grand entry into the industry, 1000 Pentesters for Africa provides the platform.
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