Seven years ago, I walked into secondary school with little idea of where my future would take me. Like many students, I felt uncertain about what I wanted to do and whether I would be capable of achieving my goals. Looking back now, having completed sixth form and preparing to start my Cybersecurity Engineering apprenticeship with British International Investment (BII), I realise just how much can change when you are willing to embrace opportunities, step outside your comfort zone, and choose the path that is right for you.

Throughout secondary school, I was determined to make the most of every opportunity available to me. I took on leadership roles, became involved in initiatives that aligned with my interests, and challenged myself to grow both personally and professionally. One of my proudest achievements was becoming Head Girl. This role taught me invaluable lessons about leadership, responsibility, and representing the voices of others. It strengthened my confidence and allowed me to contribute positively to my school community.

As I progressed through school, I developed a growing interest in technology, particularly cybersecurity. The more I learned about the digital world and the importance of protecting information and systems, the more I realised this was an industry I wanted to be part of. However, pursuing a career in technology also meant making decisions that were slightly different from what many of my peers were choosing.

Instead of following the traditional route of studying A-levels, I chose to complete a T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development. At first, this decision felt daunting. T Levels were relatively new, and not everyone understood what they involved. However, I was drawn to the practical nature of the qualification and the opportunity to gain real industry experience alongside my studies.

Choosing T Levels turned out to be one of the best decisions I have ever made.

The course allowed me to develop technical skills in areas such as cybersecurity, software development, networking, and problem-solving, whilst also gaining invaluable workplace experience. It gave me the chance to apply what I learned in the classroom to real-world situations, helping me build confidence and discover what aspects of technology I enjoyed most.

During this time, I became a T Level Ambassador, promoting technical education to students, parents, and employers. I had the opportunity to speak at schools, conferences, and events about my experiences and advocate for alternative pathways into successful careers. Through this work, I was honoured to become a finalist for T Level Student of the Year in England, recognising my efforts to champion technical education and support others considering this route.

I also became a NextTechGirls Ambassador, working to inspire and encourage more young women to explore careers in technology and fintech. As someone entering an industry where women are still underrepresented, I understand how important visibility and representation can be. I wanted to help break down stereotypes and show other girls that they absolutely belong in technology if that is where their passions lie.

Alongside my studies and ambassador roles, I sought out every opportunity to gain industry experience. I completed placements and insight programmes with organisations including Lloyds Banking Group, Eviden (Atos), Publicis Media and Digitas through Next Tech Girls, Cisco, BT Group, Arm, IBM, Anaplan, and AtkinsRéalis.

One of the most transformative experiences was my placement with Lloyds Banking Group, where I gained hands-on experience in cybersecurity and software engineering. I developed tools including an SQL injection tester and a throttling tool, worked alongside experienced professionals, rebuilt the cyber team’s SharePoint lab, and presented my work to senior leaders. I was also fortunate enough to win a regional hackathon and receive mentorship from senior cybersecurity professionals. Experiences like these reinforced that cybersecurity was not just an interest, it was the career I wanted to pursue.

As sixth form drew to a close, I faced another important decision: university or apprenticeship?

Once again, I chose the route that aligned best with my goals, even though it was not the traditional option many expected. Instead of attending university full-time, I accepted a Cybersecurity Engineering apprenticeship with British International Investment (BII).

For me, this path offers the perfect balance of continuing my education whilst gaining practical experience in an industry I am passionate about. It allows me to develop professionally, apply my knowledge in real-world settings, and continue building the skills needed to succeed in cybersecurity.

Completing Year 13 and finishing my journey at La Retraite feels surreal. Over the past seven years, I have grown tremendously, not just academically, but personally. From starting secondary school unsure of my future to becoming Head Girl, a T Level Ambassador, a NextTechGirls Ambassador, a T Level Student of the Year finalist, and now an incoming Cybersecurity Engineering Apprentice, I have learned that success does not follow a single blueprint.

There is no one “right” path.

Whether you choose A-levels or T Levels, university or an apprenticeship, the most important thing is finding the route that works for you. Success comes from taking opportunities, remaining curious, working hard, and believing in your own potential,even when your path looks different from everyone else’s.

As I prepare to begin this exciting new chapter with British International Investment, I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way: my family, teachers, mentors, friends, and the many professionals who encouraged me to pursue my ambitions.

This may be the end of my secondary school and sixth form journey, but it is only the beginning of my career in cybersecurity. I cannot wait to see what comes next.

A Tip for Anyone Reading This

Do not be afraid to choose the path that is right for you, even if it is not the most traditional one.

Your journey does not have to look like everyone else’s to be successful. Explore opportunities, ask questions, put yourself forward for experiences that challenge you, and never underestimate what you are capable of achieving. Sometimes, the route less travelled can lead you exactly where you are meant to be.

Hibatollah Jbena-Benjelloun

Cybersecurity Engineering Apprentice | T-level Ambassador | finalist for T-level Student of the year | NextTechGirls Ambassador

You can find out more and connect with Hibatollah on LinkedIn.