From Teen Trauma to Cyber Warrior: Why I Work to Keep Kids Safe Online

When I was a teenager, my life changed forever. A few photos of me were shared online without my consent, and that single event followed me like a shadow for years. What started as a moment of vulnerability turned into something that affected my sense of security and privacy. The experience left a lasting scar, one that still haunts me into adulthood. Today, I carry that memory with me not as a source of shame but as a motivation to protect others from facing the same struggles.

Back then, the internet felt like the Wild West. There were few safeguards in place, and once something was out there, it felt impossible to take it back. The feeling of having no control over my own image—a part of myself—was devastating. The weight of knowing people could see parts of my life without my permission made me anxious, guarded, and constantly aware of my digital presence.

As the years passed, the internet evolved, but so did the dangers that young people face online. From cyberbullying to exploitation, kids today are exposed to an entirely new range of risks. This is why I’m so passionate about my work at Cyber Dive. My personal experience fuels my dedication to helping create a safer online environment for children. The company’s mission—to protect kids from the hidden dangers of the digital world and to open up conversations between parents and children—could not resonate more deeply with me.

At Cyber Dive, we go beyond simply providing tools for online safety. We empower parents with the information they need to understand their children’s online lives and keep them safe in a connected world. By opening the door for honest discussions between parents and their kids, we’re helping families navigate the complex landscape of the internet together. This proactive approach gives kids the freedom to explore the digital world safely while giving parents peace of mind.

It’s a mission I wish had existed when I was growing up. Looking back, I often think about how different my experience could have been if there had been tools like the Aqua One or if my parents had understood the online threats better. Having that kind of support and knowledge could have spared me years of worry and insecurity.

Now, as part of this company, I feel like I’m contributing to something bigger than myself. My role is not just a job—it’s a way to channel my past trauma into a positive force for good. I can’t change what happened to me, but I can help ensure that fewer kids go through what I did. Each day, I wake up knowing that my work contributes to creating a safer world for children, and that’s something that brings me immense pride.

The internet doesn’t have to be a dangerous place. With the right tools and guidance, it can be a space for learning, growth, and connection. I’m grateful to be part of the team that is making that vision a reality, and I look forward to continuing this important work. Together, we can help ensure that the next generation of kids is safer, more empowered, and better protected than ever before.

That’s why I’m proud to be a part of Cyber Dive. It’s more than just a company—it’s a mission, one that’s personal to me and vital for the future of our children.