Open to opportunities

Mburu Karanja

@mburukaranja

Message

Detail-oriented cybersecurity specialist passionate about secure systems.

Kenya

Message

What I'm looking for

I seek a dynamic cybersecurity role that fosters growth and challenges my skills.

I'm a recent graduate with a BSc in Information Technology, driven by a passion for both breaking and building secure computer systems. My journey in cybersecurity has been marked by leadership roles, including founding a cybersecurity community that connects students across 23 campuses in Kenya. I have organized numerous workshops and Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions, fostering a collaborative learning environment for participants.

My technical expertise encompasses a range of skills, including digital forensics, vulnerability assessment, and penetration testing. I have gained hands-on experience through internships and projects, such as developing a scalable SIEM architecture and a secure two-factor authentication system. I thrive in dynamic environments and am eager to apply my skills in a cybersecurity role that challenges me and allows for continuous growth.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Founder & Community Lead

Current

Cyber Chief Circle

Feb 2025 - Present (5 months)

Founded a cybersecurity community spanning 23 Kenyan campuses, connecting students through shared learning. Organized inter-campus workshops, CTFs, and beginner-friendly meetups with 30–60 participants each, building a multi-campus presence in 3 months with early engagement.

Community Building CTF Event Management

Current

Cybersecurity Student Lead & GDG Cybersecurity Lead

Current

Zetech University

Apr 2024 - Present (1 year 3 months)

Led weekly cybersecurity learning sessions simulating CTF challenges for all levels and organized a CTF competition with 130 participants. Hosted 2 Hack Nights with 80-150 participants, promoting team-based learning, and developed training resources, growing the GDGoC community by 42%.

CTF

Cybersecurity Virtual Scholarship Intern

Cyber Secured India

Sep 2024 - Nov 2024 (2 months)

Gained hands-on experience in web application, mobile security, and digital forensics. Utilized Burp Suite, Metasploit, and Nmap to conduct vulnerability assessments and exploitation.

Application Security Mobile Security Digital Forensics Vulnerability Assessment Penetration Testing Burp suite Metasploit Nmap

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Zetech University

Bachelor of Information Technology, Information Technology

2022 - 2025

Studied information technology with a focus on cybersecurity. Gained skills in web and mobile security, digital forensics, vulnerability assessment, and penetration testing. Actively participated in CTF competitions and organized cybersecurity workshops.