Stephen Pullum, the Founder of Africurity and AfricurityAI, has been through an extraordinary path that began with a Commodore 64 in 1983. His journey into technology and cybersecurity has been marked by a series of pivotal experiences, each contributing to his profound understanding of the field and his relentless dedication to AI education and awareness.

In the early 2000s, with the world grappling with the implications of new digital threats, Stephen pursued advanced security certifications and became a recognized leader in the field. His work with prominent companies like Bank of America, Verizon International, Motorola, and others further solidified his reputation as a cybersecurity expert. His role as Deputy Program Manager for the Office of the Secretary of Defense/Governance and Information Assurance highlighted his ability to navigate complex security challenges at the highest levels of government.

Today, Stephen Pullum is channeling his vast experience into a new mission: promoting AI literacy and awareness, particularly among underrepresented and marginalized communities. He is passionate about demystifying AI, ensuring that technology does not become a tool of exclusion but rather a means of empowerment. His work with AfricurityAI reflects his belief in “truth in disclosure,” advocating for transparency and equity in the development and deployment of AI technologies.

The Art of Cybersecurity: Vision for the Future

In his analogy, Stephen compares cybersecurity to the protection of one’s home. While one can acquire tools, training, and expertise to safeguard a home, the intrinsic value of security— the sense of comfort and peace—cannot be easily taught or quantified. Similarly, in cybersecurity, the true measure of its effectiveness often remains theoretical until a threat materializes. This uncertainty underlines the challenges faced by cybersecurity practitioners, who must persuade businesses to invest in defenses against potential risks that may never materialize.

Stephen emphasizes that cybersecurity is not typically a revenue-generating function within a business, which makes it even more difficult to justify investments. This is where the concept of risk management comes into play within the Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) model. Cybersecurity professionals must navigate the delicate balance of convincing business units to allocate resources towards mitigating perceived threats. If a breach occurs, the entire cybersecurity framework may need to be overhauled—a process Stephen has witnessed firsthand in his various roles.

Reflecting on his extensive career, Stephen notes that the early vision of cybersecurity as a craft has been diluted over time. The focus has shifted towards competency measured by certifications and tests, rather than hands-on experience. He draws parallels between the technological revolution at the turn of the millennium and the rapid advancements we are seeing today, particularly with artificial intelligence (AI). Stephen warns that the gap between current cybersecurity practices and future needs is growing, largely due to the siloed nature of today’s cybersecurity practitioners. Many professionals in the field have not experienced the foundational challenges that shaped the industry, making it difficult for them to anticipate and navigate the future.

This realization inspired Stephen to create AfricurityAI, a platform designed to blend historical knowledge, practical experience, and modern technologies like AI, Blockchain Security, and Metaverse Security. His goal is to provide mentorship and guidance to the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, helping them avoid the hardships and steep learning curves that he and his peers endured. By securing the foundation of cybersecurity through education and innovation, Stephen aims to prepare the industry for the challenges of tomorrow.

The Driving Force Behind AfricurityAI: A Commitment to Duty and Integrity

Stephen reflects on the principles that guide his company. AfricurityAI, a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), embodies a culture rooted in integrity, trust, honesty, and ethics. Stephen, who carries a 100% disability rating from the Department of Veteran Affairs, is proud of the values that he and his team uphold. Alongside him is Kevin Bigelow, the company’s CEO and General Manager, a retired U.S. Marine with a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity from the EC-Council. Together, they run AfricurityAI with commitment to doing what is right, even when it means walking away from business opportunities that don’t align with their values.

Stephen emphasizes that the success of a business engagement isn’t just about satisfying the client. For AfricurityAI, true success lies in being able to live with the consequences of their decisions. This mindset, deeply influenced by their military backgrounds, drives their approach to business. Stephen and Kevin are both actively involved in supporting veteran communities and mentoring at-risk youth, further demonstrating their commitment to service.

AfricurityAI’s culture of innovation is firmly grounded in a sense of duty. The company’s mission is to advance AI literacy, foster AI innovation, and mentor the next generation of leaders in this field. This isn’t just a business strategy for AfricurityAI—it’s a core part of their identity. For Stephen and Kevin, executing this mission is a matter of duty, reflecting the same dedication and responsibility that guided them in their military careers.

AfricurityAI: Championing AI Literacy for Marginalized Communities

With nearly 50 years of combined service defending the United States, Africurity and AfricurityAI bring a unique dedication to their work. This dedication was forged in hazardous environments where their commitment to their country transcended race, creed, gender, or color. It is this same commitment that AfricurityAI now channels into advancing AI literacy.

AfricurityAI’s approach to AI education is deeply rooted in practical, hands-on engagement. The company believes in the power of collaboration, often working through coalitions and “boots on the ground” initiatives to bring their mission to life. Their guiding principle, “People Over Profit,” reflects a dedication to the communities they serve, ensuring that their efforts are not merely about financial gain but about making a lasting impact.

Stephen views AI as the “Great Reckoning,” akin to how the internet was once seen as the “Great Equalizer.” He observes that many communities, particularly marginalized ones, missed out on the opportunities the internet presented at the turn of the millennium. AfricurityAI is determined to prevent history from repeating itself. By actively engaging with underrepresented, marginalized, and exploited communities, AfricurityAI aims to ensure that these groups are not left behind in the next technological revolution.

Nurturing Ethical AI: Lessons from Accra

Stephen recently had the unique opportunity to teach a group of young students in Accra, Ghana, about the significance of AI ethics. This virtual lesson was part of a broader initiative led by Patrice Robertson, CEO of Eclectic Love, LLC, aimed at instilling a sense of responsibility in the next generation as they engage with AI, marketing, and other fields.

What struck Stephen most was the maturity and depth of understanding displayed by these children, who were only 9 to 11 years old, yet already grasped the complex ethical implications of artificial intelligence. He believes that the voices influencing the future of AI should come from all walks of life, particularly from communities that experience its impact firsthand. It’s not just about those with large platforms or technical expertise; it’s about ensuring that the perspectives of those often left out of the conversation are included. His commitment to engaging with and educating these future leaders underscores the importance of making AI a force for good—one that creates opportunities rather than exploiting them.

For Stephen, the work of teaching and mentoring these young minds in Accra is a reminder of the vital role ethics plays in technology. AI should not just be a tool for advancement; it must also be a bridge that connects people equitably across all social divides. By continuing to challenge existing narratives, elevate underrepresented voices, and advocate for technology that serves humanity fairly, Stephen hopes to inspire a new generation of leaders who will shape AI into a force for global good.

Breaking Barriers in Cybersecurity: Journey Through Decades of Innovation

Stephen’s career has been nothing short of groundbreaking, shaped by his persistent efforts to break through “glass ceilings” since the 1980s. The field he chose to excel in—cybersecurity—has not always been inclusive, especially for African Americans. While the broader realm of technology has made strides toward inclusivity, the niche of cybersecurity has long been lacking in representation. One of the key reasons for this, Stephen explains, is tied to the way education has been perceived within the Black community. For decades, academic education was the primary path to employment. The focus was on degrees, and the potential of certification programs was largely overlooked until these certifications became as lucrative as traditional professional degrees.

Throughout his four decades in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, Stephen has accumulated a long list of accolades and achievements. His contributions to the field are vast, and anyone interested can look at his LinkedIn profile for more details. However, what matters most to him isn’t the professional recognition or accomplishments. Above all, Stephen values his role as a father and grandfather. He considers himself a reliable and trustworthy source, a dedicated business partner, and a truthful mentor—qualities that, in his view, exceed any professional title or accolade.

Stephen’s story is all about his perseverance and vision while navigating a field that was once closed off to individuals like him and emerging as a leader in both cybersecurity and AI. His life’s work, coupled with his commitment to family and mentorship, reflects not only the progress of the tech industry but also the personal values that have guided him through the challenges and triumphs of his career.