AQ'S Corner

The Salvation Army has been a cornerstone of community support across the country. We were honored to visit their Fayetteville location for our CyberHero event.

A Mission Bigger Than a Book

On July 31, 2025, something powerful happened at the Salvation Army in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

My daughter and co-author, Emani, and I walked into a room full of campers with one mission: to empower the next generation of CyberHeroes. We were there to read our book, Emani and the CyberHero Response Team, a story we wrote together that doesn’t just entertain, but teaches kids real-world cybersecurity skills in a fun and engaging way. But the book was just the beginning. Once we turned the last page, the real conversation started.

Cybersecurity Comes to Life

We expanded beyond the story to talk about the “why” behind cybersecurity. We helped the campers understand that being safe online isn’t just about apps and settings. It’s about instincts, awareness, and the everyday choices we make, often without even realizing how much they matter. We broke down moments that might seem harmless but can quietly open the door to real danger.

We talked about shoulder surfing, when someone watches you type your password or private information over your shoulder. It sounds simple, but it’s one of the easiest ways for someone to steal your data without you ever knowing.

Then we covered tailgating, and no, not the football kind. This is when someone slips into a restricted space behind you, like a secure room or office, just because you held the door open out of habit or politeness. I gave the example of walking into a server room and holding the door for someone you don’t recognize. Now that person has access to sensitive systems just like that.

We even explored physical security. I asked the campers if they’d ever noticed those big concrete poles outside of places like Walmart. They’re called bollards, and they’re designed to stop someone from crashing a vehicle into the building. Just like cybersecurity, they’re a layer of protection always there, even if we don’t always see them.

Building Trust in a Digital World

We also had important conversations about trust, both online and offline. Sometimes, the person you think you’re talking to isn’t who they say they are. And that’s why it’s not only okay but necessary to pause, ask questions, and protect yourself. This wasn’t just a lesson in tech. It was a lesson in boundaries, awareness, and courage.

The Power of the CyberHero Pledge

Then came one of my favorite moments of the day. Emani, standing tall in her white blazer, proud and pushing through her nerves, led the entire room in the CyberHero Pose. Campers stood up with her, bold and brave, and recited our pledge:

“I promise to pause, protect, and report!
I am a CyberHero; brave, smart, and safe online!”

CyberHeroes, unite!

Emani after leading campers through the pledge. A proud moment of leadership and courage.

Every camper received a CyberHero Certificate, a signed copy of our book with a personalized message, and a take-home activity to continue the conversation with their families. Before we wrapped up, I took time to thank not just the incredible staff, but the campers themselves. Their investment in our dream was their attention, their curiosity, and their willingness to grow. That’s the kind of support that stays with you.

A Full Circle Moment

What made this day feel truly full circle was how it came to be.

Major Hughes, who now leads the Fayetteville Salvation Army, first saw us at our Barnes & Noble event. I hadn’t had a chance to ask how he found us until that day. After the session, during a bit of small talk, he told me he had just moved to Fayetteville five weeks earlier. That Sunday, after church, his son asked to stop by the bookstore to pick up a new series. And there we were, right in the middle of our event.

To be honest, I was nervous when Barnes & Noble told us Sunday was the only day available. I worried people would be in church or spending time at home. I thought it might be a quiet turnout. But what I feared would be a setback turned into something divine. Because one of our most meaningful partnerships began that very Sunday, when we were right where we were supposed to be.

More Than a Visit — A Partnership

Before we packed up, the Salvation Army didn’t just thank us. They told us, “Make sure you come back when Book Two drops.” They also encouraged us to keep going, pointed us to other opportunities we should explore, and let us know they’d be spreading the word about our work. That moment reminded me of something I carry with me every time we step into a room: this work is bigger than us.

We’re not just writing books. We’re equipping kids with real-world skills. We’re helping them navigate a digital world with confidence and caution. We’re building a community of smart, brave digital citizens who aren’t afraid to ask questions or take a stand.

The CyberHero Response Team with Salvation Army leaders united after a day of cybersecurity education, empowerment, and connection.

Want to Bring the CyberHero Experience to Your Community?

If you’re reading this and wondering if we should come to your school, your organization, or your event, this is your sign.

We don’t just read books.
We build brave kids.
We teach safety with heart.
And we show up fully and fearlessly, every single time.

CyberHeroes Unite.
And this mission? It’s only just beginning.