Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Community-driven information security conference held annually in Cape Town
- Part of the global BSides network of grassroots cybersecurity events
- Organised entirely by volunteers for the security community
- Aimed at security professionals, researchers and enthusiasts
Introduction
BSides Cape Town is an annual information security conference serving South Africa’s cybersecurity community. As part of the worldwide BSides movement, the event provides a platform for security professionals, researchers and enthusiasts to share knowledge, discuss emerging threats and connect with peers in an informal, community-focused setting.
A Community-Led Approach to Security Conferences
Unlike commercially organised technology conferences, BSides Cape Town operates on a volunteer-driven model. The event is organised by and for the security community, with a committee of volunteers managing planning and execution each year. This grassroots approach reflects the broader BSides philosophy that emerged as an alternative to larger, more corporate security events.
The BSides format originated as a way to give rejected speakers from major conferences an opportunity to present their research. Over time, it evolved into a global network of independent, community-organised events that prioritise accessibility and knowledge sharing over commercial interests. BSides Cape Town continues this tradition, offering a space where practitioners can engage with security topics in a collaborative environment.
History and Local Community
The Cape Town chapter of BSides traces its origins to before 2012, making it one of the established security community gatherings in the region. Beyond the annual conference, the local community maintains regular engagement through monthly meetups held on the second Saturday of each month. These gatherings provide ongoing opportunities for networking and discussion between the larger annual events.
Who Should Attend
BSides Cape Town welcomes anyone with an interest in information security. The event typically attracts penetration testers, security analysts, incident responders, security architects and students pursuing careers in cybersecurity. The community-oriented atmosphere makes it particularly suitable for those newer to the field who may find larger commercial conferences less approachable. Experienced practitioners benefit from the opportunity to share research and connect with local peers working on similar challenges.
The Value of Regional Security Events
Regional security conferences like BSides Cape Town play an important role in developing local cybersecurity capabilities. They provide a forum for discussing threats and challenges specific to the African context while connecting practitioners to the broader global security community. For organisations building security teams in the region, these events offer valuable recruitment and professional development opportunities.