To reduce poverty and stimulate inclusive economic growth in South Africa, in March 2023 the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), in partnership with KnowBe4 and MiDO Technologies, established the MiDO Cyber Academy. Partly inspired by the Absa Security Academy in South Africa and aimed at underserved communities within the Western Cape, the MiDO Cyber Academy focuses on cybersecurity, critical thinking, soft skills, innovation, collaboration and personal resilience. The academy aims to bridge the digital and cyber skills divide that exists between job seekers and internships or junior positions available in the IT and cybersecurity market. The academy offers a blended-learning approach, combining e-learning with in-person facilitation, personal-resilience training, life skills, industry exposure and mentorship. The programme lasts 10 months, targeting youths aged 18 to 24 and facilitating cohorts of up to 21 candidates, emphasizing real-world projects, candidate placement and integration into the workforce. Through industry involvement and support, such as masterclasses and hands-on project work, students are exposed to real-life challenges faced by security-industry professionals with the extra benefit of building up a network of senior members in the community and potential future employers.