Cybaverse Success Stories - Hodan Noor

At Cybaverse, we believe every team member has a unique and different story to share. Our next Success Story spotlights Hodan Noor, our talented SOC Analyst, whose professional journey and passion for cyber security have made a significant impact on our team.

Can you share your professional journey and the events that led you to joining Cybaverse? What inspired you to take this step in your career?

Before transitioning into cyber security, I spent ten years as a specialist mental health practitioner, a role that required resilience, quick thinking, and dedication. While I found this work fulfilling, the COVID-19 pandemic especially highlighted to me, the importance of adapting and evolving to overcome challenges. This realisation inspired me to seek a career change where I could apply my analytical skills in a new setting.

My interest in cyber security was driven by an interest with the digital landscape and the need to protect it. I began my journey by extensively researching the field, captivated by the ways in which cyber security influences every aspect of our lives. Recognising the growing demand for skilled professionals, I decided to study and take on the necessary knowledge and expertise needed to progress in this field.

I enrolled in various online courses and programs, pursuing certifications in cyber security. This was both challenging and rewarding, as it required me to balance study time with my responsibilities as a mental health practitioner. Nevertheless, my dedication paid off as I gradually built a solid foundation in cyber security principles and practices.

What truly enabled me to make this leap was the support of mentors and peers within the cyber security community. Engaging with like-minded individuals, attending conferences and webinars, and participating in forums provided me with valuable insights and kept me informed about the latest industry trends. This network offered encouragement and practical advice as I navigated my career transition.

Ultimately, my journey led me to Cybaverse, a company dedicated to educating and working with its customers to enhance and protect their cyber security assets. At Cybaverse, I aim to utilise my unique background and experiences to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. My journey demonstrates the importance of adaptability and recognising the potential for growth when embracing change. It shows that you’re not limited to one career path and with determination and an open mind, you can achieve any goal you set for yourself.

How has your education and professional background prepared you for your role at Cybaverse?

My educational and professional background has been essential in shaping my success at Cybaverse, particularly in aligning with the company’s core values, including perseverance. My decade-long experience as a specialist mental health practitioner equipped me with skills such as resilience, empathy, and quick decision-making. These skills are all key when it comes to working in cyber security, where understanding human behaviour and managing high-pressure situations are essential.

The transition from mental health to cyber security required an expansion of my technical skills, which I achieved through education and certification programs. I enrolled myself in various online courses, earning certifications that provided a strong foundation in cyber security principles and practices. My dedication to learning more about cyber security not only strengthened my technical skills but also highlighted the importance of continuously learning in an industry that is ever changing.

My analytical skills, developed through years of assessing and understanding complex mental health scenarios, have been instrumental in my current role at Cybaverse. These skills enable me to investigate cyber security threats and devise effective strategies to mitigate them. My ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, developed through years of working with diverse patient populations, allows me to collaborate effectively with team members and clients.

Perseverance has been a guiding principle throughout my career journey. Overcoming the challenges associated with transitioning into a new field requires determination and persistence. This value aligns perfectly with Cybaverse’s commitment to persevering in the face of challenges and driving innovative solutions. My journey has reinforced my belief in the power of resilience and determination, which are crucial for working in the cyber security industry.

What unique strengths, skills, or perspectives do you bring to your position at Cybaverse?

At Cybaverse, I bring a blend of skills, experiences, and perspectives that align with our company’s core values and enhance our team’s effectiveness in addressing cyber security challenges.

My previous background as a specialist mental health practitioner has instilled in me a commitment to excellence and going beyond in everything I do. This drive for greatness ensures that I deliver top-tier cyber security solutions, continually seeking innovative ways to enhance our strategies and exceed client expectations.

Throughout my career, I have prided myself on being reliable, consistently following through on commitments. In my role at Cybaverse, this reliability translates into consistently meeting project deadlines and maintaining the trust of my colleagues and clients by delivering on promises and ensuring that our security measures are effective and comprehensive.

I strive to inspire my peers, clients, and the industry through my work and actions. My transition from mental health to cyber security is a testament to the power of embracing change and pursuing new challenges. I aim to motivate others by demonstrating that diverse experiences can lead to innovative solutions by sharing insights that encourage continuous learning and growth.

Perseverance is a key value I bring to Cybaverse. The challenges I faced in transitioning careers and acquiring new skills have instilled in me a steadfast determination to achieve our goals. This perseverance ensures I remain focused and dedicated to our mission, even when confronted with complex cyber security threats or evolving industry landscapes.

By integrating these values into my daily work, I contribute to Cybaverse's mission of creating a secure digital environment for our clients and fostering a culture of excellence, trust, and inspiration.

Can you highlight some of the work or projects you've been involved in since joining Cybaverse?

At Cybaverse, I had the opportunity to engage in a diverse range of activities that leverage my skills and contribute to our mission of securing digital environments for our clients. Some of the work I undertake are the following.

In my role as a Security Operations Centre (SOC) Analyst, I actively monitor network activity to detect and respond to potential security threats, using advanced tools and techniques to safeguard our clients' systems. My focus on vigilance and detail ensures issues are addressed before they escalate, protecting the integrity of their business's assets.

I also contribute to the broader cyber security efforts within our team, supporting various client engagements aimed at strengthening security measures and enhancing overall cyber security postures. By collaborating on these initiatives, I help ensure that our clients are well-protected and informed, building trust and delivering tailored security solutions.

In your opinion, what sets Cybaverse apart as a workplace? How does the company promote a positive and inclusive culture?

Cybaverse is distinguished as a workplace by its commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive, and empowering culture that inspires employees to excel and innovate. Several key aspects set Cybaverse apart:

Commitment to Excellence: Cybaverse places a strong emphasis on greatness, encouraging employees to go above and beyond in everything they do. This commitment to excellence is reflected in our rigorous standards for quality and innovation, ensuring that we consistently deliver top-tier cyber security solutions to our clients.  

Inclusive Environment: At Cybaverse, inclusivity is a core value that permeates all aspects of our work culture. We celebrate diversity and believe that varied perspectives are essential for creativity and problem-solving. The company actively promotes an environment where all voices are heard and valued, fostering collaboration and mutual respect among team members from diverse backgrounds.

Supportive and Collaborative Culture: The company prioritises a supportive and collaborative environment where employees feel encouraged to share ideas, seek advice, and work together to overcome challenges.  

Professional Development and Growth: Cybaverse is dedicated to the continuous development of its employees, offering opportunities for learning and growth through training pathways, workshops and teaching sessions.

Inspirational Leadership: The leadership at Cybaverse is committed to inspiring employees by setting a positive example and providing clear guidance and support. Leaders encourage innovation and creativity, recognising and rewarding contributions that drive the company forward.

Cybaverse values excellence, inclusivity, collaboration, and personal growth, which creates a workplace where employees are motivated to achieve their best and make a meaningful impact in the cyber security industry.

Are there any training or development opportunities you have pursued or plan to pursue to grow in your role at Cybaverse?

To enhance my skills and effectiveness as a SOC analyst at Cybaverse, I am planning to undertake the Blue Team Level 1 course. This specialised training is designed to deepen my understanding of defensive security strategies and tools, which are critical components of my role.

The Blue Team Level 1 course will provide comprehensive insights into various aspects of cyber security defence, including threat detection, incident response, and risk mitigation.

The course will enhance my threat detection skills by providing advanced techniques for real-time threat identification and analysis, enabling faster and more effective responses to incidents. Additionally, it will improve my incident response capabilities by teaching best practices for managing security breaches, helping me adopt a proactive approach to minimise damage and maintain system integrity.

Overall, this training will contribute to my professional growth and development as a SOC analyst.

What are your hobbies or interests outside of work? How do you like to spend your free time?

Outside of work, I am passionate about pursuing a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle through a variety of activities that keep me energised and inspired. Recently, I have been getting into strength and weight training at the gym to improve my metabolic health and overall fitness. I enjoy the challenge of setting new personal records and the sense of accomplishment that comes with each session.  

I love going for long walks in the forest and parks, where I can connect with nature. These walks provide a perfect opportunity to clear my mind, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. As a big foodie, I relish trying out new food places and exploring diverse cuisines. Whether it's a trendy restaurant or a hidden gem, I enjoy discovering new flavours and experiencing the creativity of different culinary traditions.

Spending quality time with friends, family and my cat in a relaxed, chilled atmosphere is important to me.  These connections provide a sense of community and support that enriches my life. I also love watching films in the cinema, where I can immerse myself in captivating stories and appreciate the artistry of filmmaking. Whether it's a blockbuster hit or an indie film, the cinematic experience always helps me unwind and enjoy storytelling in its many forms.

If you could give one piece of advice to new employees joining Cybaverse, what would it be?

If I could give one piece of advice to new employees joining Cybaverse, it would be this: Embrace the adventure but remember to wear your seatbelt!

In the fast-paced world of cyber security, things can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster ride—exciting, unpredictable, and occasionally a bit nerve-wracking. Embrace the adventure with enthusiasm because every twist and turn are an opportunity to learn and grow. But just like any good thrill ride, it’s important to stay grounded and buckle up for safety.

Here’s how you can do that:

Stay Curious: Always ask questions and seek out new knowledge. The more you learn, the better equipped you'll be to handle any surprises that come your way.

Be Adaptable: In cyber security, things change quickly. Flexibility is your best friend, so be ready to pivot when needed and keep a positive attitude.

Collaborate: Your teammates are your safety harness. Rely on each other, share ideas, and work together to tackle challenges.

Take Breaks: Even the most dedicated thrill-seekers need a breather. Make time to recharge and enjoy some downtime to keep your mind fresh and focused.

Have Fun: Celebrate successes, learn from mistakes, and make the most of the dynamic environment we have here at Cybaverse.

So, fasten your seatbelt, keep your arms and legs inside the ride at all times, and get ready for an exciting journey with us.