In the ever-evolving landscape of financial technology and cybersecurity, certain individuals stand out for their relentless pursuit of innovation, security, and financial inclusion. Today, the global technology community recognises one such trailblazer as Arowolo Micheal Ayomide is officially inducted as the 203rd Certified Global Tech Hero and the 27th Certified Professional in the Security Category.
This distinction immortalises his outstanding contributions to the fintech industry, cybersecurity, and risk management, acknowledging his role as an entrepreneur, technologist, and mentor who has significantly impacted digital finance and security frameworks.
Arowolo Micheal Ayomide’s journey in technology is a testament to his foresight, adaptability, and passion for solving real-world financial and security challenges. Over the past five years, he has built an impressive career, blending IT audit, risk management, governance, and business leadership with a deep focus on fintech. His expertise spans technical security assessments, compliance auditing, governance framework implementation, and capacity building for aspiring professionals. His ability to identify emerging market gaps and create scalable solutions has positioned him as a leader at the intersection of finance and technology.
His most remarkable achievement is the founding of Ikinghub, a thriving digital exchange platform that has redefined cross-border transactions, gift card processing, and cryptocurrency exchange for thousands of users. Under his leadership, Ikinghub has grown from a simple WhatsApp-based operation into a fully-fledged digital ecosystem, processing approximately ₦1 billion in transactions. By leveraging cutting-edge security protocols and compliance frameworks, the platform provides a safe, efficient, and user-friendly financial solution, ensuring that young Nigerians have access to seamless digital asset exchange.
Innovation is a cornerstone of his work, evident in the proprietary technologies that have enhanced Ikinghub’s functionality. His development of a real-time rate calculator for gift cards has significantly improved transaction speeds, addressing a major pain point for users and setting a new standard in the industry. This emphasis on user experience and efficiency underscores his ability to balance technical ingenuity with business strategy, ultimately driving Ikinghub’s adoption and growth to over 2,000 active users.
Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Arowolo Micheal Ayomide is an authority in security risk management and compliance. His experience in navigating industry standards such as ISO 27001/27002, NIST CSF 1.1, and SOC 2 highlights his dedication to maintaining the highest level of security and governance. His efforts in managing security compliance programmes at established organisations reflect a profound understanding of risk mitigation and data protection, ensuring that both businesses and consumers operate in a secure digital environment.
His impact extends beyond corporate achievements, as he is also a passionate mentor and advocate for technological advancement. By designing and delivering specialized training programs on IT audit, risk management, and governance, he actively contributes to the professional development of young engineers and cybersecurity enthusiasts. His mentorship initiatives have fostered a new generation of security-conscious professionals, empowering them with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of modern cybersecurity.
The significance of his work is further reflected in the broader context of financial inclusion. Traditional financial institutions often impose barriers that hinder seamless transactions, particularly in emerging markets. Through Ikinghub, he has provided an alternative that simplifies financial interactions, eliminates unnecessary costs, and accelerates cross-border payments. His vision aligns with a future where technology bridges economic gaps and fosters financial empowerment for underserved communities.
Recognition as a Certified Global Tech Hero is not conferred lightly. The Connected Awards, renowned for its rigorous selection process, undertakes extensive evaluations before immortalising individuals in the Global Tech Hero ranks. The certification process involves thorough reviews of an individual’s contributions, professional impact, and influence on technological advancements. Each nominee is subjected to a comprehensive assessment, ensuring that only the most deserving pioneers earn this esteemed recognition. In reflecting on this milestone, Qazeem Oladejo, the founder of The Connected Awards, acknowledged the magnitude of Arowolo Micheal Ayomide’s influence, noting that his work exemplifies the very essence of innovation, security, and technological excellence. He further emphasised that the certification process is meticulously designed to identify professionals who not only achieve personal success but also drive meaningful change in their respective industries.
This recognition marks a defining moment in his career, solidifying his legacy as an industry leader and innovator. As he continues to push the boundaries of digital finance and security, his work serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, security professionals, and technologists worldwide. His ability to merge entrepreneurial vision with technical expertise underscores the transformative power of technology in shaping the future of finance and security.
Arowolo Micheal Ayomide’s induction as a Global Tech Hero is not just a personal accolade but a celebration of the impact he has made on the fintech and security industries. His contributions transcend individual achievements, representing a larger movement toward a more inclusive, secure, and technologically advanced global economy. As his journey unfolds, the world eagerly anticipates the innovations, leadership, and mentorship he will continue to provide, further solidifying his place as a pioneer in the digital revolution.
