Let me take you on a journey through the life of a curious and ambitious individual. Born in the vibrant city of Hadigaun, Kathmandu, in 1987, I arrived in this world with an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Even as a young child, I was driven by an unwavering desire to explore and learn new things.
Growing up, I discovered two passions that would shape my future endeavors. The first was cooking; a hobby that ignited my creativity and allowed me to experiment with various flavors and cuisines. The second was a fascination with different cultures and their culinary traditions. This curiosity sparked within me a desire to travel and experience the diverse gastronomic wonders of the world.
In 2008, as I completed my high school education, I set my sights on Singapore. It was there that I embarked upon a bachelor’s degree program in hotel management, eager to pursue my passion for the culinary arts. However, as I delved deeper into the intricacies of the hospitality industry, a realization slowly took hold of me. I came to understand that this path would not lead me to the prosperous future I yearned for.
As the world transitioned into the digital age, a new field emerged, captivating my attention in the realm of information technology. Sensing the incredible opportunities that lay ahead, I made a pivotal decision to switch gears and dive into the promising world of IT. I set my sights on London Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom, where I completed my undergraduate degree in computer science.
Armed with newfound knowledge and skills, I returned to my homeland, Nepal, and secured a position as a network and system engineer for one of the country’s top ISPs. Under the guidance of a seasoned and professional ICT team, I honed my expertise and delved deeper into the world of technology. However, my hunger for growth and a thirst for knowledge remained unquenched.
In 2015, I made the bold choice to temporarily step away from my professional pursuits and pursue postgraduate studies. This decision allowed me to broaden my horizons, perfect my talents, and prepare myself for the ever-increasing demands of a competitive world. During this period, a remarkable opportunity presented itself as a chance to participate in the prestigious Robogames held in San Francisco, California. With unwavering determination, I competed against the best and brought home a well-deserved bronze medal, proudly representing Nepal as the youngest competitor.
In 2017, I achieved yet another milestone in my academic journey. I earned a Master of Information Technology from London Metropolitan University, culminating in an intensive research project. My thesis, titled “Implementation and Adaptation of Software Engineering in Software Development: A Comparative Analysis between Nepal and India” delved into the intricacies of software development and highlighted the unique challenges faced by my home country.
Never one to rest on my laurels, I embarked on a new adventure in 2018, commencing my doctoral study in information security at Lincoln University in Malaysia. This pursuit allowed me to delve deeper into the realm of cyber security, an area that had captured my fascination and held immense relevance in the digital era.
Throughout my ongoing Ph.D., I have made notable contributions to the academic community. I have published two articles indexed in Scopus, solidifying my standing as a respected researcher in the field. Additionally, I have been invited to present my findings at international conferences in Malaysia, Singapore, and Nepal, further establishing my expertise and influence in the cyber security domain.
Since 2018, I have actively engaged in the cyber security field, focusing my efforts on IS audit and VAPT (Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing). My expertise and knowledge have been sought after, leading me to conduct security training for the UN Inter-Agency IT Task Force Members in Kathmandu, Nepal, in November 2018.
Over the years, I have accumulated a wealth of experience and expertise in various facets of information technology. From network planning and operations to wireless technologies, telecommunications, computer networks, and video surveillance, I have honed my skills to become a well-rounded IT professional.
In addition to my technical prowess, I have ventured into the realm of entrepreneurship, serving as the CEO of several successful businesses. From the Lincoln Academy of Culinary and Hospitality Management to Sastopashal.com, Onecover Pvt. Ltd., Zukti Tech Pvt. Ltd., and Cryptogen Nepal, I have leveraged my leadership skills to make a mark in the business world. Furthermore, Infinity Pvt. Ltd. and DS Accountants and Advisors (Australia) entrusted me with the responsibilities of a lead auditor and an IT manager, respectively.
My accomplishments have not gone unnoticed, and I have been honored with prestigious credentials from organizations around the world. These include certifications such as CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor), CHFI (Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator), CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), CEI (Certified EC-Council Instructor), ISO 27001:2013 (Information Security Management System), CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate), RHCE (Red Hat Certified Engineer), CISO (Certified Information Security Officer), and CISCO IT Essentials Instructor.
Passionate about sharing my knowledge with others, I have taken on roles as an instructor and mentor. Currently, I contribute to the educational platforms of Cybrary and Udemy, where I impart valuable insights and guide aspiring IT professionals on their journeys.
However, my commitment to education extends beyond online platforms. I now hold the esteemed position of head of the IT department at Texas Intl Educational Network, one of Nepal’s leading educational institutes. Established in 2009, the institute offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines, including BIT, BCS, BSC, Csit, BBA, MBA, BA, Science, Humanities, Management, and Law. With a steadfast dedication to providing practical and skillful knowledge, I aim to transform the educational system and offer appropriate career counseling to staff and students alike.
Looking back on my younger years, I realize that my initial career choice did not align with my true passions and aspirations. However, this realization has fueled my determination to guide others onto the right path. My ultimate goal is to nurture individual expression, foster creativity, and build strong, productive teams. Through my work, I strive to raise awareness about cybersecurity and emphasize its criticality in safeguarding personal information in our interconnected world.
I am passionate about nurturing the IT sector in Nepal and encouraging young minds to embark on this rapidly expanding field. It offers not only a reliable source of income but also the potential for immense respect and recognition.
As I continue on my journey, I hope to leave a lasting impact on the world of education and inspire future generations to embrace the limitless possibilities that lie within the realm of information technology. With unwavering dedication, I aim to create a prosperous future for the IT sector in Nepal and beyond.
Coworker says:
Prakash Koirala
He serves as a great example for us. His upbeat attitude,
Motivation and leadership have always motivated us to perform better. His communication abilities are excellent. Not only that, but he is a superb manager of teams. At such a young age, he has accomplished much in life, which is extremely admirable.
I like his commitment to his work and his straightforwardness. He is an icon for all of the employees here, not just for me.
Family Says:
Sumina Thapaliya
Sydney, Australia
Dear Brother Dr. Suman Thapaliya,
I wanted to reach out and offer my heartfelt congratulations on your outstanding achievement in the field of cyber security. It is truly a remarkable accomplishment, and I couldn’t be more proud of you. As you embark on another chapter of success, please know that I am here to support you every step of the way. Your achievements inspire me, and I am grateful to have you as my brother.
With all my love and best wishes,
INTERVIEW
What difference did you find between the education system of Nepal and abroad?
In my view, many notable things can be discussed. While children from wealthy families can afford to attend private schools, children from poor households frequently have to drop out of school to work. Regardless of a student’s familial circumstances, education is prioritized in many other countries. In Nepal’s educational system, subjects like math, science, and language are given more priority. However, several other countries have more multidisciplinary schools that cover concepts like creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. A clear difference that can be seen in Nepal’s education system and abroad is that Nepal focuses on theoretical pressure, while abroad the system is based on a practical approach. Nepal only focuses on bookish knowledge, and the abroad education system focuses on giving skill-based knowledge to the students.
Despite having many other sectors, why particularly IT?
It is very similar to having a variety of foods on a plate but only eating the ones we like. The IT sector is a booming one with many opportunities. I began my Bachelor of Information Technology program in 2010. The Fields of graphic design, internet design, and application development were expanding quickly. The most profitable and in-demand career in the world, at least during the current economic recession, is one that involves the IT industry, which is currently a hot topic. The less paper concept was steadily gaining popularity in the market. Studying IT was the only way to function in this digitally advanced world. I didn’t want to return to the old traditional method and the data system, as the world was more cultured. I decided to enter this field as a result.
What difficulties did you face in the initial phase of your career?
After graduating from SLC, I moved to Singapore in 2008 to pursue my bachelor’s degree in hotel management. I’ve always had a passion for cooking and consider myself a foodie. I always believed I was an excellent candidate to be a chef whenever I used to prepare and taste food. I believed it to be the ideal career for me. I thought I was in the wrong sector when I was doing job training since I recognized that cooking wouldn’t help me succeed. Although I enjoy cooking and eating, I felt I was unable to deal with clients in this field. I then shifted to the IT industry. My two main domains were networking and cybersecurity. When I came back to Nepal, the idea of security was unpopular. No one had considered cybersecurity; according to a common misconception, “security” refers to guarding or securing individuals. I found it difficult to begin my career at that time. It was a tremendously challenging phase of my work when I first started going to customers’ houses and installing antennas while also installing fiber optic connections, climbing poles, and repairing wires. After that, I began working as a network and system engineer. Cybersecurity was prioritized in 2018 as people began to take hacking and data breaches seriously. We needed some time to set up the cybersecurity concept and culture. The older generation complained, claiming that the younger generation’s need for cybersecurity was unnecessary, which was a threat and challenge to us. At the time, it was more difficult to sustain. People continue to be hesitant to spend money on topics like cybersecurity because they believe these investments won’t have a significant influence on society. With the assistance of CAN and the Lion Club, we promoted cybersecurity education. To get to where I am now, which was a challenging road, I had to struggle a lot. It took me 8 or 9 years from the start of my profession.
What inspires you in your life? Any specific driving force?
I am the one who inspires me. Upgrading our level of success is impossible until we develop self-motivation. Nobody inspired me to pursue a career in cybersecurity or study information technology. I realized that the upcoming period is set to go digital and that this field has a lot of potential. This motivated me to believe that young people need to transform the world. I believe self-motivation is the key to success. When I wasn’t sure I could succeed, I always kept myself motivated.
How has your family supported you throughout your career?
I’d say it’s 100% or even higher. My family has always supported me in whatever I’ve done, whether it was a desire to go abroad and further my education, launch my own business, or choose a career. They let me do whatever I wanted. The credit for getting me to where I am now goes to my family, who have been there for me every step of the way. They have consistently helped. I’m grateful to have such a kind and encouraging family that has supported me throughout my journey.
What factors would you consider when advising your close ones on possible career paths?
As I previously stated, self-motivation is the key to success. You need to stay objective about what to do in life. Like the phrase never sail on two boats, you should not try to be in two places at once or have two different things at the same time. You must be self-sufficient and have a clear vision of what you want out of life. Always pick a field that is growing and taking place in the market and has a high demand for workers. It makes no difference what field you choose; you must succeed. A clear timeline can help you stay clear about objectives in your life. You must stay focused and take your time deciding which job is ideal for you. To reach your goal, you must be self-motivated and completely dedicated. You must select a profession that matches your standards and principles in life.
What sparked your interest in cybersecurity, and how did you transition into this field?
As I was learning, I found cybersecurity a lot more interesting on its own. My interest in cybersecurity sparked when I thought of learning something that could do better for this world. Cybersecurity is a vast sector. There are many career options in this sector. It is a multipurpose domain, I believe. The main thing you gain in this field is respect. It also has a great income source.
What is the future of cyber security in the digital world according to you?
In the context of Nepal, cybersecurity has a bright future. It is estimated that roughly 50,000 cybersecurity experts will be required during the next ten years. Cyber security is prioritized on the global stage. The technology we utilize daily requires security. Every day, we as humans crave new technologies, and our demand is expanding. Security is becoming more important as our needs grow. Higher technological advancement means higher cybersecurity demand. Along with that, new cybersecurity difficulties will arise as the IoT continues to expand. These devices will need to be secured, and organizations will need to take precautions against attacks that take advantage of them. Organizational cooperation will increase in frequency. This will make it easier to exchange threat information and create coordinated security plans. Additionally, it will lessen the impact of cyberattacks when they do happen.
The field of cyber security is changing at the same time as the rest of the world, right? How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements in the IT industry?
As with the rest of the world, “cyber security” is a field that is rapidly growing. For a cybersecurity expert, staying current with the most recent trends and developments in the IT sector is essential. I participate in several social clubs and professional networks related to cyber security. I take part in many professional and social networks about cyber security. These groups offer a venue for knowledge exchange, discussions, and networking with professionals in the field. By engaging with professionals in the sector, I gain valuable insights into emerging trends and best practices. I frequently go to webinars and seminars about information technology and cybersecurity. Well-known thought leaders and presenters share their knowledge and offer insights into the most recent developments in the industry at these events. I obtain a greater comprehension of the problems and solutions in the sector by attending these seminars to learn about new technologies. I take part in online networks and forums devoted to cyber security. I also believe in lifelong learning, which motivates me to explore and learn about new available technologies.
Whether it’s a new software, hardware, or security technique, I promptly delve into it, understanding its strengths, weaknesses, and potential impact on the industry. If obtaining certifications is necessary to enhance my skills and knowledge, I willingly pursue them to validate my expertise. I also make it a point to study security bulletins and advisories issued by reputable security organizations and governmental agencies. These publications offer insightful information on new threats, attack methods, and risk-mitigation best practices.
Can you give an overview of Nepal’s current information security situation? What are the main challenges and opportunities you see for the industry?
I think Nepal’s status concerning information security is hilarious. Information security is simply present where it should be. Information security is not understood to the extent that it should be. To be on the safe side, it is claimed that Nepal has information security while, in reality, it does not. Educating people is a challenge. They think that investing in this sector is not worthwhile. Due to a lack of understanding, information security is a problem in and of itself. There are only prospects for success in information security. In Nepal, there is a lack of collaboration between the public and commercial sectors when it comes to cybersecurity. It is challenging to develop and implement effective security policies and procedures as a result. Nepal’s market is small, but its human resources are cheap. If we solely focus on the Nepali market, it will be more challenging to maintain, but there are opportunities in this industry if we work on global businesses.
As Nepal’s youngest PHD scholar in information security audit, what motivated you to pursue it at such a young age?
This field was empty, which is what motivated me. When I started my Ph.D., I noticed that no one from Nepal had completed a Ph.D. in my discipline. I looked at my age and determined that in the next five years, I would be the country’s youngest Ph.D. holder. Before starting my Ph.D., I worked in the field of cyber security. I attended numerous programs and earned many international certifications, which inspired me. I enjoy learning a lot and want to try something new.
As an experienced medalist, what advice would you give to aspiring roboticists who aspire to compete in the Robo Games or similar competitions? Also, what made you interested in robotics?
A platform for learning new things is called Robo Games. It aids in future growth. It makes way for fresh possibilities. I chose to take part in the Robo Games when my career was only getting started. The fact that no one from Nepal had ever won a medal was the key factor in my decision to participate. The idea was that if we united and created a robot as a team, we might succeed. We had a five-person crew. In 2016, the games were held in San Francisco, California. We placed second in the competition, which was honorable for our nation.
Based on your experience and expertise, what advice or insights would you like to share with our readers who are interested in pursuing a career in IT or networking?
Thank you for asking that question. As someone who has been working in the IT industry for several years, I have a few insights and advice to share with those interested in pursuing a career in IT or networking. I would highlight that the information technology industry is constantly expanding and evolving. Technology plays a crucial role in almost every aspect of our lives, and this trend is going to continue in the future. IT offers many opportunities for individuals to find their place and build a successful career. One of the great things about the IT field is its flexibility. IT professionals can work in various industries, including healthcare, finance, retail, entertainment, and many more. This diversity allows individuals to explore different sectors and find the one that aligns with their interests and passions. While the IT industry offers numerous advantages, it’s essential to acknowledge that it requires continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies. Technology is constantly evolving, and innovations emerge regularly.
Therefore, aspiring IT professionals must embrace a mindset of lifelong learning and be willing to adapt to new tools, programming languages, and frameworks. Engaging in professional development activities attending conferences, and pursuing certifications can help individuals stay ahead in this dynamic field. Lastly, I would encourage anyone interested in pursuing a career in IT or networking to be open to new experiences and not be afraid to leave their comfort zone. The IT industry provides countless opportunities to work on diverse projects, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and solve complex problems. Embracing these challenges and being willing to try something new can lead to personal and professional growth.
What is the best advice you have ever got in your life? How has that advice made an impact on your life?
The best advice I’ve received in my life was from my best friend. As my best friend knows every side of me, they advised me to consider the field of techno-marketing instead of solely focusing on technical skills. Techno-marketing is a field that combines technical expertise with strong communication skills for marketing purposes. This advice has had a profound impact on both my personal and professional life.
How has that advice made an impact on your life?
The advice to pursue techno-marketing has had an impact on my life in several ways. Firstly, it has broadened my career options and opened up new opportunities. By combining my technical skills with effective communication and marketing abilities, I have been able to explore roles that require a blend of both. It has allowed me to stand out in the job market and secure positions that align with my interests and strengths. This advice has enhanced my personal growth and interpersonal skills. It has improved my ability to communicate ideas, adapt my communication style to different audiences, and build strong relationships with colleagues and clients. Pursuing techno-marketing has fostered a more well-rounded perspective in my life. By understanding both the technical and marketing aspects of a product or service, I can contribute to more holistic decision-making processes. This interdisciplinary knowledge has allowed me to approach challenges with a broader mindset and find innovative solutions that consider various factors. The advice to pursue techno-marketing has had a transformative impact on both my personal and professional life. It has expanded my career opportunities, improved my communication and interpersonal skills, fostered a broader perspective, and increased my overall confidence. I am grateful to my best friend for providing me with this invaluable guidance.
If you could go back in time and change one thing in your life, what would it be?
I am aware that there is no way to go back in time and undo the choices I have already made. However, if I could go back in time, there is one decision I would consider changing. In retrospect, I would have chosen to enter the IT industry and begin my career as a student instead of pursuing cooking. The reason behind this choice arises from my passion for technology and the rapid advancements that have taken place in the IT field over the years. While cooking has been rewarding and fulfilling work, I believe that a career in the IT industry would have aligned more closely with my long-term interests and provided opportunities for growth and innovation. By entering the IT industry earlier, I would have had the chance to acquire technical knowledge and skills at a younger age. It would allow me to stay at the forefront of emerging technologies and trends, ultimately enhancing my career prospects and opening doors to diverse opportunities. The IT industry offers a wide range of roles and specializations, providing flexibility to explore different areas and find the perfect fit for my skills and interests. I don’t regret my journey in the culinary world entirely. It has taught me valuable lessons such as creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure. However, if a chance is given to change one thing, I would seize the opportunity to enter the IT industry earlier and leverage my passion for technology to shape my career trajectory.
