Brandon Ahmed

Cyber Security Specialist and Published Author

This journey, marked by continuous learning and practical application, has not only enriched my professional life but also positioned me to make significant contributions to the field of cyber security.

Why I chose to study at Leeds Trinity

I realised after speaking with other enrolled students and those considering the University themselves that Leeds Trinity was widely focused on collaboration and treats the students as individuals and not just a number.

What I loved about the course

I loved that everyone got on really well and that we could all take advantage of the high level of support. Each lecture was given with a positive and enthusiastic attitude which made them really engaging, interactive and inclusive.

Valuable placement opportunities

I carried out my Level 4 Placement at Sky, Leeds as a Trainee Software Developer.  I was able to utilise the skills and knowledge gained throughout my lectures and implemented them throughout my placement. This gave a great sense of understanding and feel for real-life situations,  putting what you had learned to the test. I also picked up new skills and therefore increased my learning and understanding.

International experience

In September 2019 I studied abroad for one semester in South Korea – which was an experience of a lifetime. It’s great that Leeds Trinity offered several different opportunities to study abroad, offering the chance to learn and experience a new culture and environment.

Life after graduation

Since leaving Leeds Trinity University, I furthered my academic pursuits by obtaining a Master's Degree in Cyber Security. This advanced programme covered a wide range of topics, including ISO27001, Network Security, Cryptography, and Ethical Hacking. My proficiency in these areas was solidified upon earning my ISO27001 certification, which has played a pivotal role in my career development.

I have since been a guest speaker for various organisations and at numerous events, allowing me to share my knowledge and insights with diverse audiences and contribute to the broader conversation on cybersecurity. Being ISO27001 certified has also opened doors for me to assist businesses in securing their systems. I provide comprehensive resources and identify critical areas of improvement to enhance their security posture.

Before committing to a full-time role, I ventured into the freelance arena. As a freelance engineer, project manager, and security specialist, I worked with established businesses and start-ups. This experience was invaluable, allowing me to apply my skills in various settings and help organisations achieve their security and operational goals.

This journey, marked by continuous learning and practical application, has not only enriched my professional life but also positioned me to make significant contributions to the field of cybersecurity.

Being a published author

My time at University, at UG and MA level, had a profound effect on my understanding of the ever-evolving world of technology. The rigorous academic environment, coupled with valuable professional experiences, including opportunities to work overseas, has significantly broadened my perspective.

My professional engagements have provided me with firsthand insights into the dynamic nature of technology and its transformative impact across various industries. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my comprehension of the global trends driving technological advancements. Consequently, I feel a strong sense of responsibility to share the knowledge and insights I have gained in IT, computer science, cybersecurity, and technology with others.

Being an author allows me to channel my knowledge and experiences into a form that can benefit others, which is both a privilege and a responsibility I hold dear. Creating these resources is more than just an academic exercise; it is a way of giving back to the education sector and the broader community that has played a crucial role in my journey.

In essence, this work represents a full-circle moment for me. It is an acknowledgment of the support I have received and a commitment to perpetuating that support for future generations. It is an honor to contribute to the educational landscape and to know that through these publications, I am making a tangible impact on the lives and careers of others.

My books

What’s next

As I move forward with these publications, the next steps are driven by the feedback and reception they receive. Currently available as Kindle editions, my goal is to expand their reach by turning them into paperback copies. This will not only increase accessibility but also cater to readers who prefer physical books.

I am also eager to extend my support to other academics, researchers, professionals, and students. I am open to contributing to their papers, publications, and articles, offering my expertise and insights to enhance the quality and depth of their work.

I plan to conduct workshops and be a guest speaker at events, inspiring and educating others, fostering a deeper understanding of the ever-evolving technological landscape.