A grassroots movement fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Born in 2009, BSides Security Conferences are community-driven events for cybersecurity professionals. They offer a welcoming space for individuals to present research, ideas, and experiences, fostering dialogue and collaboration beyond the limitations of larger conferences.
Each BSides event is unique, reflecting the local cybersecurity landscape and fostering community engagement through presentations, workshops, and networking opportunities. This makes them valuable for both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike.
From Las Vegas to a Global Network:
The inaugural Las Vegas event, driven by the desire for a more inclusive space, set the stage for a global phenomenon. Inspired by its success, local organizers worldwide began hosting their own BSides conferences, maintaining the core principles of openness and collaboration while tailoring them to address regional security concerns.
This grassroots approach facilitated BSides’ rapid expansion across continents, fostering a decentralized network of vibrant cybersecurity communities. Each event contributes to a cohesive global network, highlighting the universal relevance of cybersecurity issues and the success of the BSides model in promoting knowledge exchange and community building.
BSides rapidly expanded to the following countries:
- Europe: London (UK), Berlin (Germany), and Lisbon (Portugal)
- North America: Toronto (Canada), Austin (USA), and Vancouver (Canada)
- Asia: Singapore and Tokyo (Japan)
- Oceania: Sydney (Australia) and Wellington (New Zealand)
- Africa: Cape Town (South Africa)
- South America: São Paulo (Brazil)
A Legacy of Empowerment:
The continued growth of BSides underscores the demand for accessible, community-driven platforms within the cybersecurity field. By empowering diverse voices and fostering cutting-edge discussions, BSides has significantly contributed to the advancement of cybersecurity discourse and community engagement around the world.
History of BSides in South Africa:
BSides Cape Town started in 2011 and BSides Joburg will have its first event in 2024
About BSides Joburg
Vision Statement:
We envision a grassroots community-led event in Johannesburg that empowers individuals at all levels of cybersecurity expertise to engage, learn, and contribute, fostering a culture of shared knowledge and mutual growth. Our aim is to inspire the next generation of cybersecurity experts and enthusiasts to drive forward-thinking solutions in the ever-changing field of cybersecurity.
Mission Statement:
BSides Joburg is a volunteer-run, community-supported non-profit organization formed to organize an annual event that provides a platform for the exchange of knowledge and ideas in cybersecurity, promoting education, networking, and collaboration among professionals and enthusiasts in Johannesburg, and nurturing a community dedicated to advancing information security.
We aspire to advocate for ethical cybersecurity practices, raising awareness about digital security issues, and providing a platform for open dialogue and knowledge sharing among experts and novices alike. We aim to offer accessible, high-quality opportunities for learning and growth in cybersecurity, helping to build a strong, skilled workforce prepared to tackle future security challenges.
