Zakia Abdul Nziguye: My Journey from Uncertainty to Cybersecurity Expert
- January 16, 2025
- Posted by: appsandgirls
- Categories: Alumni Highlight, Impact Story

My name is Zakia Abdul Nziguye, the fifth child in a family of five. I completed my secondary education at Mwanza Baptist Secondary School in 2017. Unfortunately, due to financial challenges, I could not continue with further studies and stayed home for some time. My life took a transformative turn in December 2018 when I came across an advertisement for the JOVIA Program—an opportunity that would change my life forever.
In 2019, I joined the JOVIA Program, where I studied web development and tech entrepreneurship. This program ignited a passion for technology and innovation within me. After completing the program, I had the privilege of furthering my education at the NLAB Innovation Academy, where I earned both a certificate and diploma in Information Technology (IT). These achievements gave me the confidence to apply for a degree program at the Institute of Accountancy Arusha (IAA), where I am currently in my third year pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. I am also a proud Certified Ethical Hacker.
Before joining the JOVIA Program, my life was filled with uncertainty. I had been out of school due to financial constraints, and the dream of continuing my education felt unattainable. For over a year, I stayed at home, longing for an opportunity to rebuild my life and pursue my dreams. The JOVIA Program provided that opportunity, allowing me to overcome these challenges and rekindle my hope for a brighter future.
I discovered the JOVIA Program through an ad on social media. The moment I saw it, I was captivated by the chance to continue my education and explore the world of technology. I immediately visited the Apps and Girls page to learn more about their work, and their mission inspired me deeply. Without hesitation, I applied for the program, and my journey with Apps and Girls began.
From the very beginning, the JOVIA Program filled me with hope and inspiration. The chance to learn alongside other young women and develop new skills was empowering. Collaborating with like-minded individuals boosted my confidence, fostered lasting friendships, and taught me invaluable teamwork skills. One of the most impactful moments of the program was presenting my project to an audience. Although I had no prior experience in public speaking, the mentors and trainers at Apps and Girls supported me tirelessly. Through their guidance and my dedication, I practiced extensively and successfully delivered my presentation. This experience strengthened my public speaking skills and belief in my ideas.
The program not only equipped me with technical and problem-solving skills but also instilled in me the confidence to pursue ambitious goals. For instance, I participated in the Cyber Champion 2023/2024 competition organized by TCRA to promote cybersecurity skills among youth. Out of 50 finalists, I was one of the four winners—and the only girl among them. As part of my prize, I received a scholarship to study for the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification, which I successfully completed. This achievement marked a significant milestone in my journey.
During my time at Apps and Girls, I worked on several innovative projects, including developing a web-based system called Zainlicious Nail Beauty. This platform served as a booking system for nail services, enabling clients to schedule appointments with technicians who provide services at the client’s location. This project taught me how to combine technology and entrepreneurship to solve real-world problems.
The mentorship and support I received through the JOVIA Program played a crucial role in shaping my career. Returning to education after the program gave me renewed hope and motivation to pursue higher studies. With the encouragement of Apps and Girls, I enrolled in IT courses at the NLAB Innovation Academy and later joined the Institute of Accountancy Arusha to specialize in Cybersecurity. The exposure and skills I gained solidified my passion for technology and guided me toward a career in cybersecurity—a field where I aspire to make a significant impact.
Today, I envision a future where I am a leading cybersecurity expert, mentoring young women in STEM and developing innovative tech solutions for African communities. My journey has taught me that no obstacle is insurmountable with determination and the right support system. To girls who may feel hopeless about their education or future, my message is clear: never lose hope. Use social media wisely to seek out opportunities like the JOVIA Program that can transform your life. Embrace learning, stay determined, and take full advantage of the resources available to you. Programs like Apps and Girls have the power to change your future, just as they did for me.
Thank you.