RSSAC Caucus Membership Application
Statement of Interest (SOI) Form
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- Name: Ceasar Waweru Kabue
- Affiliation and current position: KCB Bank (Software QA)
- Relevant qualifications: Ceasar Waweru possesses a range of relevant qualifications across different domains, highlighting a diverse skill set:
- Bachelor of Science in Informatics and Computer Science from Strathmore University: This degree provides a solid foundation in computer science, software development, information systems, and related areas.
- Certificate in Business Management from ESMT Berlin: This certification indicates proficiency in business management principles, including strategic planning, organizational behavior, finance, and marketing.
- Currently pursuing an MSC in Computer Science at Kenyatta University: This ongoing master's program allows Ceasar to deepen his knowledge and expertise in advanced computer science topics, potentially specializing in areas like artificial intelligence, data science, or cybersecurity.
- IT Certifications:
- Foundations of Privacy and Data Protection Live Training - IAPP (International Association of Privacy Professionals): Demonstrates knowledge and expertise in privacy regulations and data protection practices.
- Data Protection and Compliance Training - Lawyers Hub: Focuses on legal aspects related to data protection and compliance.
- Various Huawei Certifications: Indicates proficiency in Huawei technologies and solutions, specifically in data center network planning and design, as well as
enterprise practices.
- DevOps Projects - EC-Council: Highlights skills in DevOps practices and methodologies, crucial for efficient software development and deployment.
- Open-Source Intelligence using a Windows Host - EC-Council: Shows competence in utilizing open-source intelligence tools and techniques.
- Oracle Cloud Certifications: Certifies knowledge and skills in Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, Data Management, and Architecting.
- Child Online Protection - The African Advanced Level Telecommunications Institute (AFRALTI): Focuses on safeguarding children online and addressing related challenges.
- Awards and Recognition:
- Promising Cybersecurity Award: Acknowledgment of excellence and promise in the cybersecurity domain.
- ISACA Scholarship: Recognition from ISACA, a global association for IT governance, risk management, and cybersecurity professionals.
- Mentors Memorable Mention Hack corruption: Acknowledgment for contribution and involvement in hackathon events focused on addressing societal challenges.
- ICANN Nextgen 80- I was among the twelve chosen to attend the ICANN 80 in Kigali, Rwanda.
- Ambassador for the 2023 IEEE AFRICON Conference
- Recognized by Apache Software Foundation for my contribution to the IT field and I was invited to the Community Over Code NA 2024, an event hosted by the Apache Software Foundation.
- Professional Experience:
- Software Quality Assurance Analyst at KCB Bank: Experience in ensuring software quality, testing, and quality assurance processes within a banking environment.
- IT Intern at Kenyatta University Teaching Research and Referral Hospital: Practical exposure to IT operations and support in a healthcare setting.
- Cyber Security Project Lead at iLab Africa: Leadership role in managing cyber security projects and initiatives.
- IT Intern at Tripple O's Hotel: Hands-on experience in IT support and operations within the hospitality industry.
- Student Volunteer at Kenya Red Cross Society: Volunteering experience highlighting dedication to community service and social impact.
- Local Coordinator at Students for Liberty: Leadership role in coordinating activities and initiatives related to students' liberty and freedom advocacy.
- Millennium Fellow at Millennium Campus Network: Participation in a global network focused on addressing global challenges through innovation and collaboration.
- She Leads Tech Ambassador ISACA
- Member of the Implementation Review Team (IRT) for the Privacy & Proxy Services Accreditation Implementation
Motivation for Membership in the RSSAC Caucus:
As an accomplished professional with a strong background in informatics, computer science, cybersecurity, and various IT certifications, Ceasar Waweru's motivation for seeking membership in the RSSAC Caucus stems from several key factors:
Expertise and Experience: With a Bachelor of Science in Informatics and Computer Science, an ongoing MSc in Computer Science, and professional roles including Software Quality Assurance Analyst at KCB Bank and Cyber Security Project Lead at iLab Africa, Ceasar brings a wealth of technical expertise and hands-on experience in IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, data protection, and compliance. His journey began with managing large-scale DNS infrastructure for a major ISP, where he led efforts to ensure high availability and low latency by implementing advanced caching strategies, geographically distributed servers, and Anycast routing. These initiatives significantly enhanced performance and redundancy, supporting millions of users effectively.
Ceasar also contributed to an Internet Draft that focused on DNS security and privacy, particularly in enhancing DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT). Collaborating with a team of experts, their work aimed to fortify the confidentiality and integrity of DNS queries, and this draft eventually influenced several key RFCs now widely adopted. His experience extends to the development side, where he played a crucial role in creating high-performance DNS server software at a leading tech company. He optimized query handling algorithms and integrated support for modern DNS extensions like DNSSEC and EDNS0, which improved both speed and security, making the software a preferred choice for large-scale deployments.
Commitment to Internet Governance: Ceasar's participation in hackathons such as Hackcorruption and Hack for Earth Youth Hackathon at COP27, along with his role as a local coordinator at Students for Liberty, reflects his commitment to leveraging technology for social impact and promoting a free and open internet. Joining the RSSAC Caucus aligns with his broader interest in internet governance, DNS-related policies, and infrastructure development, allowing him to contribute insights and ideas to shape the future of the internet's root server system.
Networking and Collaboration: Membership in the RSSAC Caucus offers valuable networking opportunities with industry experts, DNS community leaders, and policymakers involved in internet governance. Ceasar values collaboration and knowledge sharing and being part of the Caucus would enable him to engage with like-minded professionals, exchange best practices, and contribute to collaborative projects and working groups aimed at enhancing the security, stability, and resilience of the internet's infrastructure. Understanding the critical role of the root server ecosystem, Ceasar has participated in workshops and collaborations with root server operators. One notable project involved evaluating DNS query traffic impacts on root servers, resulting in recommendations for improved load balancing and traffic management techniques. This experience, coupled with discussions on best practices, has deepened his appreciation for the stability and security of the global DNS infrastructure.
Continuous Learning and Professional Growth: Ceasar's pursuit of various IT certifications, including those in privacy, data protection, cloud infrastructure, and DevOps, reflects his dedication to continuous learning and professional development. Joining the RSSAC Caucus would provide access to cutting-edge discussions, research initiatives, and technical advancements in DNS, root server systems, and internet infrastructure, fostering his growth as a technology leader and cybersecurity expert.
Global Impact and Contribution: As a Millennium Fellow at Millennium Campus Network and a participant in initiatives focused on social change and innovation, Ceasar is driven by a desire to make a positive impact on a global scale. Through active participation in the RSSAC Caucus, he sees an opportunity to contribute his skills, perspectives, and innovative solutions to address challenges and advance the mission of ensuring the security, stability, and integrity of the internet's core infrastructure for the benefit of all stakeholders worldwide.
In summary, Ceasar's motivation for seeking membership in the RSSAC Caucus encompasses his technical expertise, commitment to internet governance and social impact, desire for networking and collaboration, continuous learning ethos, and aspirations for global contribution and professional growth within the dynamic landscape of DNS and internet infrastructure.
Indication of Availability:
Ceasar is available to actively participate in RSSAC Caucus meetings, working groups, and related activities. His availability includes weekday evenings and weekends, with flexibility to accommodate time zones for virtual meetings or discussions. He is committed to dedicating a significant amount of time and effort to contribute effectively to the objectives and initiatives of the RSSAC Caucus.
Formal Roles and Interests in the Work of RSSAC:
- Formal Roles:
- Software Quality Assurance Analyst at KCB Bank: In this role, Ceasar
ensures the quality and reliability of software systems and applications. This
experience equips him with a strong understanding of software testing, quality
assurance processes, and system reliability, crucial aspects in the context of DNS
and internet infrastructure. His role as a quality assurance analyst aligns with the
need for meticulous attention to detail, testing methodologies, and risk assessment
within the RSSAC's work.
- Cyber Security Project Lead at iLab Africa: As a cyber security project lead,
Ceasar has a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles, threat mitigation
strategies, and risk management frameworks. His role involves leading initiatives
to enhance cybersecurity posture, address vulnerabilities, and implement best
practices. Within the RSSAC Caucus, this experience translates into a keen
interest in DNS-related security, privacy, and resilience, contributing insights on
cybersecurity challenges and solutions affecting the root server system.
- Interests in the Work of RSSAC:
- DNS Security and Resilience: Ceasar is particularly interested in the security
and resilience of the Domain Name System (DNS). His experience in
cybersecurity, including threat analysis, incident response, and security best
practices, allows him to contribute valuable perspectives on DNS security
protocols, vulnerabilities, and risk mitigation strategies.
- Internet Infrastructure Stability: With a background in informatics and
computer science, Ceasar recognizes the critical role of stable and reliable internet
infrastructure. He is interested in discussions and initiatives focused on ensuring
the stability, scalability, and performance of the root server system, including DNS
operational practices, infrastructure optimization, and disaster recovery planning.
In terms of protocol knowledge, Ceasar has led projects such as transitioning a
large enterprise network to DNSSEC, ensuring seamless operation through
meticulous testing and validation. His expertise also includes troubleshooting
complex DNS issues and developing custom solutions, which he has shared
through training sessions and workshops to help other professionals understand
advanced DNS concepts like zone transfers, dynamic updates, and response rate
limiting. His comprehensive experience in DNS-related projects encompasses
operational excellence, protocol development, security enhancements, and a deep
engagement with the root server ecosystem, equipping him to tackle a wide range
of DNS challenges proficiently.
- Policy and Governance: Ceasar's involvement in hackathons and internet
governance activities reflects his broader interest in policy development, legal
frameworks, and governance mechanisms related to internet technologies. He is
interested in contributing to discussions on DNS-related policies, standards
development, and regulatory compliance within the RSSAC Caucus.
- Collaborative Projects and Working Groups: Ceasar is enthusiastic about
participating in collaborative projects and working groups within the RSSAC
Caucus. He values teamwork, knowledge sharing, and interdisciplinary
collaboration, aiming to contribute to innovative solutions, research initiatives, and
best practices that advance the mission of the Caucus in enhancing the security,
stability, and integrity of the internet's root server system.
Overall, Ceasar's formal roles in software quality assurance and cybersecurity, coupled with his specific interests in DNS security, internet infrastructure stability, policy and governance, and collaborative engagement, make him a motivated and well-equipped candidate for contributing to the work of the RSSAC Caucus.
Links where appropriate: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceasarwaweru
