From Hackathons to the Stage: A Young Cybersecurity Speaker’s Journey

In a world where cybersecurity is becoming more critical than ever, young innovators are stepping up to make their mark. One such individual is Kastab Garai — a passionate cybersecurity enthusiast and multiple-time hackathon winner — who recently took his journey to the next level by stepping onto a conference stage as a speaker.

A Milestone Moment

Kastab was invited by HackWithSmile.in in collaboration with AiCyber.Guru to speak at a Capture The Flag (CTF) Conference & Hackathon held at Lucknow Public College of Professional Studies (LPCPS).

For someone who started as a learner and competitor in hackathons, this moment marked a significant transition — from participant to mentor.

Standing in front of an audience filled with curious and aspiring cybersecurity enthusiasts, Kastab delivered a live demonstration of bug hunting and ethical hacking. His session wasn’t just theoretical — it was practical, engaging, and deeply rooted in real-world application.

Sharing Real-World Cybersecurity Knowledge

During the session, Kastab introduced participants to essential tools and frameworks widely used in cybersecurity, including:

• Burp Suite
• Nmap
• Exploit-DB
• OWASP standards
• CVSS, CVE, CWE, and NVD databases
• Domain poisoning techniques

Rather than overwhelming the audience with technical jargon, he focused on simplifying complex concepts and demonstrating how these tools are applied in real-world scenarios. His approach made cybersecurity feel accessible — even for beginners.

Beyond Technical Skills

What made the experience even more valuable wasn’t just the technical knowledge — it was the environment.

The event brought together passionate learners, speakers, and organizers, creating a space for meaningful conversations and networking. Kastab actively engaged with fellow speakers and students, exchanging ideas and insights that extended far beyond the stage.

Such interactions often play a crucial role in shaping perspectives and opening doors to new opportunities.

Recognition and Gratitude

The event concluded with a token of appreciation, recognizing Kastab’s contribution as a speaker. Moments like these go beyond awards — they symbolize growth, recognition, and community impact.

He also expressed his gratitude to the organizer, Somendra Nath Tiwari, for creating a platform that empowers students and professionals to learn, connect, and grow together.

A Glimpse Into the Future

Kastab’s journey reflects what consistency and curiosity can achieve. From winning hackathons to mentoring others, he represents a new generation of tech enthusiasts who are not just learning — but also leading.

His story serves as an inspiration for students aspiring to build a career in cybersecurity. It shows that with dedication, practical learning, and the courage to step out of one’s comfort zone, it’s possible to go from sitting in the audience to standing on the stage.