Galeboe Mogotsi, CISO at Wits University, brings more than just technical prowess to the cybersecurity field. He’s a football enthusiast and an advocate for a healthy work-life balance.
Galeboe Mogotsi, Wits University's dynamic chief information and security officer (CISO), isn’t just known for his expertise in cybersecurity – he’s also a football fanatic with a deep-rooted passion for his favourite clubs.
Locally, he’s a loyal supporter of Kaizer Chiefs (the beloved AmaKhosi), and internationally, he stands with the Gunners. Whether cheering from the stands or catching games at home with his family, football is a ritual he holds dear. “It’s all about the atmosphere, the passion, and the thrill of the game – sharing that with family and friends is priceless,” he says.
Beyond the pitch, Galeboe is a sought-after speaker and adviser, well-known for his insights on digital transformation, emerging technologies and cybersecurity. “I find immense satisfaction in sharing knowledge on these topics. But I always make sure to balance it with time for my passions and the people who matter most to me,” he explains.
He’s not just a thought leader: Galeboe is a valued supporter of the CIO South Africa community, where he regularly contributes thought leadership pieces on cybersecurity. His journey began in Thaba-Nchu, a town in the Free State with a rich cultural backdrop.
“Growing up here shaped my values and made me the leader I am today,” he reflects. Initially driven by a desire to pursue health sciences and help others, life steered him toward technology and cybersecurity, where he found a new way to protect and serve.
Galeboe holds a national diploma in IT networks and security, which laid the groundwork for his understanding of technology. He later pursued my education with a focus on IT management, earning a BTech, followed by a postgraduate diploma.
Galeboe recently completed his MBA, a qualification that he says, has provided him with a solid foundation in both technology and business, equipping him with the skills to navigate the evolving landscape of cybersecurity.
His entry into the world of cybersecurity was inspired by a burning desire to protect the environment and the people behind those efforts.
“I believe that effective leadership is about empowering others and fostering a culture of collaboration and trust. I strive to be an inclusive leader, actively seeking diverse perspectives to drive innovation and resilience in my team,” he adds.
Y2K and cracking glitches
His journey into IT began in a pivotal moment for technology – the year 2000, during the Y2K phenomenon. After matric, Galeboe recalls being bombarded with misinformation and hype surrounding the potential computer glitches that could occur as the millennium turned.
“This buzz triggered something in me: I started seeing computers in a different light,” he notes. “I realised that these machines, which seemed so complex and intimidating, held incredible potential and could either create or solve significant problems.
“I guess you could say, I’ve always wanted to be the next person to fix the next big computer bug,” he jokes.
“As I progressed in my career, my roles evolved from technical positions to leadership. Initially, I focused on the operational aspects of IT, honing my technical skills and understanding the intricacies of network security and system management. Over time, I transitioned into leadership roles where I could influence strategy and foster a culture of resilience within my teams.
“One of the most significant shifts in my journey as an IT leader has been my commitment to inclusive leadership and community engagement. I have come to understand the importance of empowering my team and encouraging diverse perspectives. This approach has not only driven innovation but has also cultivated an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute.”
An affinity for cyber
Galeboe took a particular interest in cybersecurity, much of which was sparked by his late mentor, Fhatuwani Marwala, in his early working career, who played a pivotal role in his journey. “I would often go to his desk to learn how he managed firewalls – we were using pfSense at the time,” he reflects. “I was fascinated by the black and blue screens he worked with, which seemed so complex yet incredibly powerful. Watching him navigate these systems ignited my curiosity and passion for security.”
His passion for cybersecurity grew as he began to understand the broader scope of IT risk management. This education, combined with his hands-on technical experience in security, he explains, saw him naturally gravitate towards a career in cybersecurity.
“I realised that protecting information and systems is not just about technology; it’s about understanding the risks and developing strategies to mitigate them effectively.”
According to Galeboe, the continuous evolution of threats in the cybersecurity landscape keeps the field dynamic and challenging. “It motivates me to stay ahead of emerging trends and adapt my strategies accordingly,” he points out. “Moreover, the CISO role, in particular, allows me to leverage my technical background while also focusing on leadership and strategic decision-making.”
Finding a balance
Working in a high-pressure environment of cybersecurity, the CISO insists that leaders should try to maintain a healthy work-life balance. “By prioritising both your professional and personal life, leaders can lead with greater clarity, resilience, and effectiveness,” he says.
Galeboe shares tips on how to maintain this balance:
- Prioritise my tasks based on urgency and importance – this approach allows me to focus on critical issues while effectively delegating responsibilities to my team.
- Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time – set specific working hours and communicate these to my team, and encourage an inclusive culture.
- Maximise your efficiency – utilise various time management techniques, such as time blocking and task batching (time allocated to family, hobbies, and self-care).
- Conduct regular team check-ins – to discuss ongoing projects and any challenges they may face: discussions keep everyone aligned and allow you to offer support, reducing feelings of being overwhelmed.
- Incorporate self-care – spend time with your loved ones, as this is particularly soothing and strengthens the family bond. Good for emotional support.
- Recognise that cybersecurity is ever-evolving – dedicate time to continuous learning through courses, workshops and networking. This proactive approach helps you stay updated on industry trends.
Galeboe is not exaggerating when he stresses the importance of unwinding and spending time with family. He’s also a keen reader and shares a couple of favourite authors but in no particular order.
“Atomic Habits by James Clear offers practical insights on building positive habits, while The Extended Mind by Annie Murphy Paul delves into how we can enhance our cognitive abilities by utilising external resources,” he says. “Another favourite of mine is Betting on a Darkie by Mteto Nyati, which provides valuable perspectives on leadership and resilience.”
Galeboe is currently reading The Corporate Revolutionary: Mervyn King's Life in Law, Business, and Governance by David Williams, which he says has been both enlightening and inspiring.
However, Galeboe has very little say when it comes to holiday destinations. His wife handles that department. “As for vacation spots, I find that I often end up enjoying wherever my wife chooses,” he gestures with a smile. “Her picks always bring a unique flair to our travels, and I appreciate the chance to recharge in new and exciting places!”
