Leadership

Dr. Michael Okeke

Founder and Director of CyberLife Community Empowerment CIC — serving Cardiff and Wales through digital inclusion, cyber resilience and community empowerment.

Biography

Dr. Michael Okeke is a Visionary Leader at the Intersection of Technology, Faith, and Community

In an era defined by rapid technological advancement, the chasm between the digital haves and have-nots continues to widen, leaving the most vulnerable members of our society at risk of being left behind. It is at this critical juncture that Dr. Okeke has emerged as a visionary leader, a passionate advocate for digital inclusion, and the driving force behind CyberLife Community Empowerment CIC.

With a career spanning over a decade at the forefront of cybersecurity and education, Dr. Okeke brings a unique and powerful blend of expertise to this vital mission. As a university/College lecturer, he has dedicated his professional life to demystifying the complexities of the digital world, teaching and inspiring the next generation of technology leaders. His areas of specialization are a testament to his deep and broad understanding of the field, encompassing computing, cybersecurity, networking, and digital forensics. This academic rigor is further underscored by a PhD in Cybersecurity, a qualification that has not only honed his technical knowledge but has also seen his research published in esteemed academic journals and presented at prestigious international conferences. This is not merely an academic pursuit for Michael; it is a deeply held conviction that knowledge is a tool for empowerment, and that the complexities of the digital world can and should be made accessible to all.

But to truly understand the driving force behind CyberLife CIC, one must look beyond the impressive academic and professional credentials.

For Dr. Okeke is not only a technologist and an educator; he is also a pastor, a teacher, and a dedicated community leader. This duality of purpose is the very heart of the organisation, a fusion of technical expertise and a profound commitment to social justice. It is this unique combination that enables Michael to connect with individuals from all walks of life, to understand their fears and aspirations, and to create a learning environment that is not only informative but also inspiring and transformative.

His work within the community is a testament to his unwavering commitment to serving the most vulnerable. He has a proven track record of working with digitally excluded groups, of reaching out to those who have been marginalized by the relentless march of technology, and of providing them with the skills and confidence to navigate the digital world with safety and assurance. he has witnessed firsthand the debilitating effects of the digital divide – the social isolation, the economic disadvantage, the loss of opportunity – and it is this experience that fuels his passion for change.

Michael’s vision for CyberLife CIC is not merely to provide training; it is to build a community.

It is to create a space where individuals can come together to learn, to share, and to support one another. It is to empower not only individuals but also the very fabric of the community itself – the small businesses, the charities, the churches, the community groups – to harness the power of technology for the greater good. His approach is holistic, recognizing that digital inclusion is not just about access to technology but also about motivation, skills, and a sense of belonging.

In a world that is often characterized by division and inequality, Michael stands as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. He is a leader who understands that true empowerment comes not from the top down but from the ground up. He is a visionary who sees the potential in every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances. And he is the driving force behind an organisation that is poised to make a real and lasting difference in the lives of the people of Cardiff and beyond. With Michael at the helm, CyberLife Community Empowerment CIC is not just a social enterprise; it is a movement.

If you are a community organisation, school, church, funder or partner looking to deliver meaningful local impact, we can propose a suitable delivery format and next steps.