Hellen Maziku

In her remarks, Dr. Hellen Maziku of @UdsmOfficial shared a deeply personal and moving account of her path to becoming an expert in Cyber Security and AI. She emphasized that success in these high-tech fields is not built on technical skill alone, but is rooted in humility, patience, and the foundations laid by those who came before us. Reflecting on her origins, she noted, "I am who I am today, but it didn't start overnight." Dr. Maziku credited her journey to the extraordinary sacrifice of her mother, who worked as a house help and took on double the labor to ensure her daughter could study in Uganda. She described her mother as her first mentor and greatest role model, a woman who carved out a future that once seemed entirely out of reach. Turning her attention to the students and fellow scientists in attendance, Dr. Maziku outlined four essential pillars for professional and personal growth. First, she urged them to find a mentor, advising that no one should walk the path alone. She also stressed the importance of consistency, noting that simply "showing up" and doing one's best creates the visibility needed for future opportunities. Third, she encouraged everyone to be a positive team player, valuing the people around them as much as the projects they build. Finally, Dr. Maziku spoke on purpose beyond self, sharing that she chose to return to Tanzania from the USA because of her firm belief in adding value to her own community. "As scientists," she concluded, "we have the power to change the world."