Today we’d like to introduce you to Yasmin Abdi
Hi Yasmin, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey into cybersecurity started with a deep curiosity about how things work, particularly in the digital space. Growing up in Somalia, I became fascinated by technology, intrigued not only by its potential but also by the risks that came with it. This fascination grew as I got older and led me to pursue a degree in computer science when I moved back to the U.S. for college. It was then that I really found my niche in cybersecurity—a field where I could channel my love for building while safeguarding against threats.
My career began at big tech at Snap, where I had the privilege of working with some of the most talented individuals in the world. I managed key security operations there, learned from leading experts, and deepened my understanding of what it takes to protect global systems. After that, I went on to roles at Google and Meta, leading security teams and working on complex, high-impact projects. These experiences helped sharpen my skills and gave me a deep understanding of cybersecurity at scale.
Despite the success I found at these tech giants, I wanted to do more. I wanted to empower smaller organizations, especially those with fewer resources, to better understand and manage their security risks. That desire led me to start noHack, a cybersecurity consulting firm where I now work with public and private sector clients to build robust, resilient security strategies.
Another core part of my journey has also been about creating inclusive opportunities in tech. I’m passionate about breaking down barriers, especially for women and underrepresented communities. Through mentoring, advocacy, and leading by example, I aim to empower the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. This, for me, has been just as fulfilling as the technical work itself.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I’ve faced a lot of challenges, both personal and professional. Being a woman, especially a black woman, in a male-dominated industry has often meant having to work harder to be seen and heard. I’ve walked into many rooms where I was the only one who looked like me, and that can be intimidating. There have been times when I felt like I had to prove my skills or fight to earn the same level of respect that others received automatically.
Then, there’s the technical side. Cybersecurity is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the curve requires a lot of continuous learning. Early on in my career, there were moments of self-doubt when I struggled with complex problems when solutions didn’t work as planned. But I see these challenges as opportunities. Every setback has taught me resilience and made me a better problem solver.
Starting noHack has come with its own unique set of hurdles too. Entrepreneurship is hard. You’re not just responsible for your work—you’re responsible for your team, your clients, and the overall vision of the company. There were moments when managing all of that felt overwhelming, but it’s also what makes the journey rewarding. Building a company from the ground up has taught me so much about leadership, perseverance, and the importance of staying true to your vision, even when the road gets bumpy.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At noHack, we understand the unique challenges that startups and small businesses face in the evolving cybersecurity landscape. With the rapid integration of AI and machine learning into cybersecurity, threat detection and response are becoming faster and more precise. However, these same technologies are also being exploited by attackers, making it vital for businesses to stay ahead of the curve. NoHack partners with organizations to offer tailored, cutting-edge security strategies that not only protect but also empower businesses to scale securely.
Beyond technology, we recognize that human error remains a major vulnerability. That’s why noHack focuses heavily on cybersecurity education and awareness, working closely with clients to build a culture of cyber hygiene. As governments introduce new data privacy regulations, we also help businesses navigate these complexities, ensuring compliance while fostering innovation.
In an era where remote and hybrid work models are the norm, noHack emphasizes zero-trust architectures and endpoint security, ensuring that our clients are protected at every level. We’re not just consultants; we’re long-term security partners, committed to helping startups and small businesses thrive in a world where cybersecurity is more critical than ever.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
The cybersecurity landscape is set to undergo massive changes over the next 5 to 10 years, and it’s an exciting time to be in the industry. One of the biggest trends we’re already seeing is the integration of AI and machine learning into cybersecurity. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize threat detection and response by making it faster and more precise. However, the same tools can be used by attackers, which means cybersecurity professionals will need to stay one step ahead. AI will make cybersecurity both more powerful and more challenging.
Another big shift will be the growing emphasis on cybersecurity education and awareness. Even with the most advanced tools, human error remains one of the weakest links in any security chain. Phishing attacks and social engineering tactics are still alarmingly successful. That’s why I see companies doubling down on security training for their employees, making cyber hygiene a fundamental part of their operational culture.
We’re also going to see a lot more regulation around data protection and privacy. As governments worldwide become more concerned about the security of personal and corporate data, new laws will be introduced, pushing companies to be more transparent and secure in how they handle information. For organizations, this means adapting to tighter rules while continuing to innovate. Balancing compliance with cutting-edge security practices will be critical.
Lastly, I think we’re going to see an increasing focus on zero-trust architectures and endpoint security as more organizations adopt remote and hybrid work models. Protecting the network perimeter is no longer enough, and businesses will need to rethink how they secure their systems at every level. My goal with noHack is to be at the forefront of this transformation, helping organizations stay agile and secure in this fast-changing environment.
Pricing:
- 1:1 Strategy Session: $350
- Express Coaching Session: $150
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nohackllc.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nohackllc/
- Other: https://calendly.com/nohack
