Talent

Talent Accelerator

The 2024 SANCS Cyber Talent Accelerator

The SA-Netherlands Cyber Talent Accelerator is an full time advanced 6-month cyber security training and work readiness program sponsored by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in South Africa and presented by the Cyber Security Institute.
The aim of the SANCS Accelerator is to provide a mechanism for bridging the persistent gap between training and employment for young South Africans wishing to access the cyber security labour market.
The Talent Accelerator provides fully sponsored 20 student internships to recent graduates of the South Africa-Netherlands Cyber Security School offered by the Hague Centre for Strategic Studies and Stellenbosch University.
The CTA offers students a comprehensive 6-month certification in cyber security accredited by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.  In addition, the student interns complete modules in IT networks, cloud computing and Python.

The work readiness program features:

  • Weekly advanced masterclasses by industry experts on various facets of cyber security.
  • A capstone digital project-based learning program featuring various milestones over a six-week period. The syndicate-based project documents and presentations are evaluated by a panel of industry experts who provide guidance and mentorship to the student interns.
  • Mentoring towards employment.
  • Three months of technical live cyber range exercises using the world class Circadence cyber range.

Industry Experts

Prof Brett van Niekerk (PhD)

Prof Brett van Niekerk (PhD) is an associate professor at the Durban University of Technology, chairs the IFIP Working Group on ICT in Peace and War, and is Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Cyber Warfare and Terrorism. He is CISM certified, with over 80 publications and numerous presentations.

Nompumelelo Khumalo

Nompumelelo Khumalo has been driving cybersecurity at CCBA since 2021, building on a career marked by adaptability and a commitment to proactive learning. Transitioning from IT support to cybersecurity through a Deloitte consultancy role, she developed a passion for safeguarding systems and empowering others. Her journey, enriched by key roles at Standard Bank, has spanned IT audit, risk management, and regional security. She champions diversity in tech, encouraging more women to enter cybersecurity by breaking stereotypes and embracing unique strengths. Her advice? “Enter with confidence, a willingness to learn, and a passion for problem-solving.”

Simphiwe Hector Mayisela

Simphiwe Mayisela is a cybersecurity professional with over 21 years of experience, specializing in governance, risk, and compliance. He is the founder and CEO of SS-Consulting and the President of the South African Chapter of (ISC)², which he helped establish. Recognized for his integrity, Simphiwe received the 2024 OUTA Moral Courage Award for his role in supporting efforts to combat corruption at the Public Investment Corporation (PIC). He holds a Master’s degree in Information Security from Rhodes University and is pursuing a Doctor of Business Leadership at UNISA. Simphiwe also serves as a guest lecturer on ethical decision-making at GIBS and contributes to the South Africa-Netherlands Cyber Security School (SANCS).

Samantha Hanreck

Samantha Hanreck is a versatile IT professional with nearly two decades of experience in streamlining operations and aligning technology with business objectives. With a proven track record at the CIO level, Samantha has expertly managed cloud solutions, IT project management, and operational efficiency, ensuring that corporate visions are realized through innovative technology strategies. Her extensive experience spans across multiple industries, where she has led transformational projects, managed complex IT infrastructures, and upheld the highest standards of data policy and compliance. Known for her agility and strategic insight, Samantha is dedicated to driving technological excellence and operational success.

Unathi Mothiba

As a seasoned Product Manager, Unathi Mothiba is passionate about leveraging technology to drive transformative change across the African continent. With a focus on secure digital transformation, he aims to harness the intricate interplay between people, processes, and technology to create innovative and sustainable solutions. His career is dedicated to understanding and addressing the unique challenges and opportunities within the African digital landscape, ensuring that advancements are both impactful and secure

Masterclass Speakers

Ms. Dikeledi Mzimba

Ms. Dikeledi Mzimba is an Aviation Security Risk Specialist at the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). With over 15 years of experience in information security and risk analysis within the public sector. Her expertise spans the management of information security postures, cybersecurity awareness, and the integration of robust security frameworks. At SACAA, she plays a critical role in shaping and implementing the Aviation Security Risk Framework and Risk-Based Oversight Model, ensuring that aviation security measures are both comprehensive and responsive to evolving threats. In addition to her work in aviation security, Ms. Mzimba is responsible for the development and execution of South Africa's Civil Aviation Cybersecurity Strategy. She serves as a panel member on the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Aviation Cybersecurity Panel, contributing to global cybersecurity initiatives within the aviation sector. Bringing together her technical expertise as a former Information Security Auditor and her ability to foster collaboration, Ms. Mzimba is committed to building a culture of cybersecurity resilience in aviation. She actively guides teams and stakeholders to fortify aviation's digital landscape against emerging cyber threats.

Dr Heloise Meyer

Dr Heloise Meyer is currently employed as a senior engineer and network security specialist at the South African National Research Network (SANReN) group that forms part of the National Integrated Cyberinfrastructure System (NICIS) centre at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). Dr Meyer leads the Cyber Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT) for SANReN and is the project lead for the annual SANReN Cyber Security Challenge (CSC) competition. She completed her PhD Computer Science degree in 2019, with a focus on identifying the authenticity of smartphone data. Her interests include digital forensics, mobile security and cyber security.

Justin Westcott

Justin Westcott is Chief Technology Officer at DataGr8. His passion for the Cyber Security domain lies in Cyber risk management, Vulnerability Management Maturity, and cyber skills development. His roots in Cyber Security stem from Penetration Testing, Digital Forensics, and drone technologies research. His private sector experience ranges to include assisting organisations in assessing Cyber Security postures, maturing vulnerability management processes, quantifying cyber resilience roadmaps, creating security-aware cultures, and mapping best practice frameworks to bespoke training of security specialists by means of facilitated, gamified cyber security training

Dr. Sagwadi Mabunda

Dr. Sagwadi Mabunda is a Senior Lecturer at the University of the Western Cape and an Advocate of the High Court of South Africa, specializing in cybercrime legislation, transnational justice, and anti-money laundering law. With a Ph.D. on "The South African Legislative Response to Cybercrime," her academic research deeply explores cybercrime laws and their enforcement. In practice, Sagwadi represents clients in complex legal proceedings and offers expert legal counsel. Internationally, she has collaborated with leading institutions like CyberBRICS, New America, and RUSI to enhance global cybersecurity efforts. As a consultant, Sagwadi provides strategic guidance on navigating cybercrime governance and legal compliance, offering innovative solutions to combat cyber threats. With her extensive experience and commitment to advancing the field, Sagwadi is a trusted advisor for organizations facing cybersecurity challenges.

Wayne Dalton

Wayne Dalton is an academic and industry expert in software engineering, lectures at the Faculty of Military Science, Stellenbosch University. He focuses on software design, network programming, and hardware, incorporating Python to support diverse student backgrounds. With a background in the South African Navy and extensive experience at Microsoft South Africa, he has also co-founded a Microsoft Certified Technical Education Centre. Since 2013, he has been active in non-profit work, including a US-based organisation and local community service. Currently a PhD student, his research in AI and maritime security contributes to the Defence AI Research Unit (DAIRU), a hub of the South African AI Institute.

Samantha Hanreck

Samantha Hanreck is a versatile IT professional with nearly two decades of experience in streamlining operations and aligning technology with business objectives. With a proven track record at the CIO level, Samantha has expertly managed cloud solutions, IT project management, and operational efficiency, ensuring that corporate visions are realized through innovative technology strategies. Her extensive experience spans across multiple industries, where she has led transformational projects, managed complex IT infrastructures, and upheld the highest standards of data policy and compliance. Known for her agility and strategic insight, Samantha is dedicated to driving technological excellence and operational success.

Simphiwe Hector Mayisela

Simphiwe Mayisela is a cybersecurity professional with over 21 years of experience, specializing in governance, risk, and compliance. He is the founder and CEO of SS-Consulting and the President of the South African Chapter of (ISC)², which he helped establish. Recognized for his integrity, Simphiwe received the 2024 OUTA Moral Courage Award for his role in supporting efforts to combat corruption at the Public Investment Corporation (PIC). He holds a Master’s degree in Information Security from Rhodes University and is pursuing a Doctor of Business Leadership at UNISA. Simphiwe also serves as a guest lecturer on ethical decision-making at GIBS and contributes to the South Africa-Netherlands Cyber Security School (SANCS).

Find our students below

Certificate in Cyber Security

Course Details

This practical, hands-on course focuses on establishing a foundation in Cyber Security by introducing candidates to cyber-crime, attack methods, and managing cyber risks.

Mode of Offering: The course is presented via facilitated    e-learning, utilising an e-learning platform and virtual classes.

Intended Audience:

This course is designed for individuals embarking on a career in Cyber Security or performing security functions.

Eligible for FUNDI Funding!

Requirements

Applicants should have a Matric certificate or equivalent qualification with suitable IT knowledge, Internet access, and a PC or laptop on which applications can be installed and services accessed.

Costs:

R10,500 all inclusive

Duration:

5-months

Intake:

We have two main intakes, one at the end of February and another at the end of June. Additional intakes may be scheduled depending on application volumes and requirements.

Course Overview:
Cyber-crime‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎
  • Introduction to cyber-crime
  • Cyber-attack methods (e.g., ransomware, sextortion, email fraud)
  • Cyber criminology (actors behind the attacks, criminal networks, state-sponsored entities, etc.)
  • Tracing the online trail
  • Dark web (criminal forums)
  • Case studies of attacks in SA & Global.
  • Crime-as-a-Service
  • Internet of (Criminal) Things.
Practical Cryptography
  • Introduction to cryptography.
  • Encryption and Decryption.
  • Hash functions
  • Blockchain
  • Virtual Currencies
  • Digital signatures
  • Digital certificates
  • Cryptographic Protocols (SSL, SSH, etc.)
Course Overview:
Cyber Governance, Risk & Compliance
  • Overview of cyber governance, risk, and compliance
  • POPIA & GDPR
  • Data Privacy
  • Policies in action
  • NIST, ISO27001
  • Controls
  • Planning for contingencies
  • Developing the security program
  • Risk analysis and management
Cyber Intelligence‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎
  • Introduction to Cyber Intelligence
  • Attack Tools
  • Attack process
  • Reconnaissance and Footprinting
  • OSINT services and tools
  • Threat and vulnerability feeds and assessments

Cyber Investigations

Course Details

This course is suitable for investigators and investigation teams within the corporate environment and public sectors who are required to track online trails or utilise tools to solve online crimes. It is also intended for professionals and investigative journalists involved in investigations such as fraud, espionage, data theft, and cyber vetting.

Mode of Offering: The course is presented via facilitated    e-learning, utilising an e-learning platform and virtual classes.

Intended Audience:

This course is designed for investigation officers, cyber-crime investigators, investigative journalists, etc.

Eligible for FUNDI Funding!

Requirements

Applicants should have a Matric certificate or equivalent qualification. Although a formal IT qualification or certification is not required, some knowledge of computer systems would be beneficial. Internet access and a PC or laptop on which applications can be installed and services accessed are required.

Costs:

R10,500 all inclusive

Duration:

4-months

Intake:

Applications are accepted throughout the year, with course starting dates in February, May, and August.

Course Overview:
  • Reconnaissance
  • Online services and tools
  • Metadata Encryption & Decryption
  • Digital signatures
  • Online investigations
  • Crime Scene Management
  • Documenting evidence
  • Investigation Process
  • Chain of Evidence
  • Protocols and emails
  • URLs & DNS information
  • Timelines
  • Decryption and deciphering
  • Virtual Currencies
  • Cyber criminology
  • Introduction to the attack process
  • Introduction to attack vectors
  • Social networks (i.e., attacks via Facebook, Twitter, etc.)
  • Dark and hidden web
  • Threat actors
  • Data Collection
  • Social Media
  • OSINT
  • HUMINT
  • SOCMINT

Cyber Intelligence

Course Details

The main objective is to equip delegates with the necessary competencies and practical skills to assist in compiling an intelligence-driven cyber security strategy to provide proactive solutions to a plethora of cyber threats.

Mode of Offering: The course is presented via facilitated        e-learning, utilising an e-learning platform and virtual classes.

Intended Audience:

This course is designed for persons responsible for the security function, CISOs, as well as Data Protection Officers.

Requirements

Applicants should have a Matric certificate or equivalent qualification. Although a formal IT qualification or certification is not required, some knowledge of computer systems would be beneficial. Internet access and a PC or laptop on which applications can be installed and services accessed are required.

Costs:

R10,500 all inclusive

Duration:

4-months

Intake:

Applications are accepted throughout the year, with course starting dates in February, May, and August.

Course Overview:
  • Cyber Security Environment
  • Cyber Landscape
  • Cyber Threats and Exploits
  • Cyber Actors and Criminology Aspects
  • Obtaining Data
  • Sources of Data
  • Collection Operations
  • Applications, Tools, and Services
  • Analysis of Cybercriminals’ Modus Operandi
  • Analysis Techniques (Data to Information)
  • Indicators of Compromise
  • Cyber Intelligence
  • Intelligence Platforms, Applications, and Services
  • Data – Information – Intelligence
  • Intelligence Strategy
  • Incident Management
  • Cyber Warfare
  • Political and Commercial
  • Developing an Intelligence-Driven Strategy
  • Strategic and Tactical Intelligence Function
  • Risk Management

Cyber Governance

Course Details

Establishing a security strategy and defining a suitable implementation plan focused on managing cyber risks in a volatile and dynamic environment requires a solid understanding of the threat space and frameworks. This course unpacks cyber governance and approaches to manage risk and adhere to compliance regulations.

Mode of Offering: The course is presented via facilitated    e-learning, utilising an e-learning platform and virtual classes.

Intended Audience:

This course is designed for Managers and C-Suites responsible for security, Board members, as well as prospective leaders in the Cyber Security space.

Eligible for FUNDI Funding!

Requirements

Applicants should have a Matric certificate or equivalent qualification. Although a formal IT qualification or certification is not required, some knowledge of computer systems would be beneficial. Internet access and a PC or laptop on which applications can be installed and services accessed are required.

Costs:

R10,500 all inclusive

Duration:

4-months

Intake:

Applications are accepted throughout the year, with course starting dates in February, May, and August.

Course Overview:
  • Security Management Program
  • Cyber-crime
  • Threat Environment
  • Cyber Criminology
  • Regulations – GDPR, POPI, Electronic Act, PCI-DSS
  • Skills Frameworks
  • Cyber Awareness Programs
  • Risk management
  • Controls – Choice, Implementation, and Management
  • Security Frameworks and Models
  • Policies and Procedures
  • Data Protection
  • The road to ISO 27001 Compliance and Certification

IT and Cyber Security Program

Course Details

Our courses combine essentials from both industry and academia to provide valid, unique, practical content that is innovatively presented via facilitated e-learning.

The IT and Cyber Security Program is a practical course consisting of coursework, virtual classes, and practical cyber range exercises.

Mode of Offering: Learning will be conducted through a facilitated online format, utilising an e-learning platform to provide an interactive and engaging educational experience. Additionally, hands-on practical sessions and virtual labs will be conducted every Friday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, offering participants the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world context. This blend of online facilitated learning and scheduled virtual sessions aims to create a comprehensive and dynamic learning environment, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience for participants.

Intended Audience:

This course is designed for school leavers, those on a gap year, graduates looking to add industry credentials, and individuals looking to make a career change.

Eligible for FUNDI Funding!

Requirements

Applicants should have a Matric certificate or equivalent qualification. Internet access and a PC or laptop on which applications can be installed and services accessed are required.

Costs:

R 31,350 all inclusive

Duration:

12-months

Intake:

25 February 2025

Course Overview:
IT Foundation for Cyber Security
  • IT Hardware Fundamentals
  • Network Fundamentals
  • Introduction to Operating Systems (Windows and Linux) 
  • Introduction to Cloud Computing (Office 365 and MS Azure) 
  • Protocols 
  • Technical Research and Writing
  • Algorithms and Problem Solving
  • File and Database Systems
  • Scripting
  • New Technologies: AI and Quantum Computing
  • Soft Skills
Certificate in Cyber Security
  • Cyber Security Fundamentals 
  • The Cybercrime Eco-System
  • Actors in Cyber Space – State and Non-State Actors
  • Cyber Incidents: Attacks, Breaches, and Espionage
  • Understanding Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) using the Mitre Attack Framework
  • Cryptography (Symmetric/Asymmetric/Hashes)
  • Secure Protocols
  • Reconnaissance and OSINT (Open-Source Intelligence)
  • Cyber Security Frameworks and Standards: Introduction to the NIST CS Framework and ISO 27000 Series
  • Cyber Risk Management, Cyber Governance, and the Implementation of Security Controls
Facilitated online course with virtual classes, and practical training and skills development on the cyber range platform.