Edition #8: Speaking Up and Taking Charge

Author

Dominic Alegrete
October 02, 2025

Every season brings its own lessons, and September reminded me that progress comes when you put yourself out there.

🚀 Milestones & Moments: Finding My Voice This Month

This past month has been a powerful reminder that speaking up for what you want can truly open doors. I’ve always known the importance of advocating for myself, but this month it came to life in so many ways.

In September, I had the chance to attend the GovTechCon conference, where I was also a speaker. The panel I spoke on was about “Defining Your Legacy in Government Tech”, and it was an incredible moment to offer a fresh, young perspective on what legacy means to me. 

For me, it is about the impact you leave behind, the consistency you show in your work, and the opportunities you create not just for your family but for others.

It was also great catching up with other content creators, meeting new people, and pushing myself to step outside my comfort zone. Thank you to Symmoné Beez and her team for allowing me to be a part of it.

While at the conference, I had another first: my first in-person podcast appearance. Thank you to Christopher Okpala for the opportunity.

On his show, we talked through my journey, and I shared tips for the next generation on how to get started in tech, what it really takes to become the “Youngest in Charge. Be on the lookout for the episode on his podcast “Tech Woke”.

Another memorable connection at GovTechCon was with Devin Price, who works at Microsoft. We had a great conversation, and as a result, he invited me to join his podcast, “The Talking Tech Podcast”.

I am grateful for his platform and thankful for the opportunity to share more of my story, as well as the importance of advocating for yourself. 

Beyond conferences and podcasts, I am also going to be sitting for my next certification, CASP+ (now known as SecurityX). It will be my seventh certification when I pass, and another big milestone in my professional career.

On a personal note, I also experienced an important milestone in my faith journey I was baptized last month. It was a huge moment for me and a reminder of the growth happening in all areas of my life.

Here’s to continuing to speak up and stepping forward.

📖 Coming Soon: The Youngest in Charge Playbook

It’s OFFICIAL! The Youngest in Charge Playbook drops this November. It is a step-by-step blueprint for anyone who wants to take control of their career, finances, and health at an early age.

The playbook will show you how to find a career in cybersecurity while elevating your skills, building your personal brand, and creating real connections.

You will also gain access to the same network of connections and mentors who have shaped my journey. On top of that, it will cover the habits and mindset needed to optimize your health and put yourself on the track to financial freedom.

There will be free resources available, along with premium content behind a paywall for those who want to go deeper. More details will be shared across social media.

Can't wait to share more. 

🛡️ Cybersecurity Update: European Airports Under Cyberattack

Several major European airports were recently hit by a wave of cyberattacks, disrupting systems and leading to at least one arrest connected to the incidents.

The case highlights how critical infrastructure remains a prime target for threat actors

For more details, read the full article on CNN.

🔒Breach One, Teach One

This month, I focused on breaking down real-world cyber events and career lessons for anyone navigating the tech space.

If you want to keep up with my latest videos, Subscribe to My YouTube.

💪Your Health is Your Greatest Asset

Lately, I’ve been thinking about how much of our lives are run by our phones.

Phones play a huge role in our daily lives, but long-term use every day can affect focus, sleep, and stress levels. I know with everything being digital, it can feel impossible to step away, but making small adjustments goes a long way. Setting limits, keeping your phone out of sight, or scheduling time away from it can help create balance.

If you use an iPhone or Android, these quick guides show how to set screen time limits:

Another option is the free app Freedom, which lets you block apps or sites so you can stay focused. Unplugging is not easy, but it is one of the best investments you can make for your health and productivity.

❓ Question of the Month

When was the last time you spoke up for yourself, and how did it change the outcome?

🗓️ Upcoming Events

BITCON:

BITCON is the annual Blacks In Technology conference, covering topics like AI, cybersecurity, and software.

I’ll be getting a chance to speak on a panel there. The conference takes place from October 3 to 4th, and it’s fully virtual. My panel takes place on October 4th @ 11:45 PM EST.

Learn more about the conference: bitcon.blacksintechnology.net

BEYA Career Day:

On October 11th at 12 PM EST, I’ll be joining other student ambassadors live on the BEYA YouTube channel for Career Day, an open conversation centered around STEM careers, student journeys, and growth in the tech space.

📚What I’m Reading This Month

This month, I picked up Hackers Exposed by Fernando Guilherme Barbosa de Azevedo. It offers a clear look at how hackers operate and the evolving landscape of digital threats. Also, while being in cybersecurity, you can never stop learning or reviewing. 

🔹Resource Spotlight: CyberNOW

Finding a clear path into cybersecurity is tough, especially when it comes to real entry-level opportunities. CyberNow is a SOC analyst training platform that focuses on hands-on skills that actually prepare you for the real role.

They also run a SOC Analyst Job Board, where every month it's updated with true entry-level defensive security roles such as (SOC Analyst, Security Analyst, Internships & more). 

💭 A Thought to Keep in Mind

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.”

— Martin Luther King Jr.

📩 Let’s Stay Connected

I appreciate you being part of my journey and taking the time to read this update.

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Thank you kindly.

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