Students For Liberty (SFL), a global pro-liberty organization with operations in over 100 countries, understands these challenges firsthand. Its mission to educate, develop, and empower future leaders of liberty relies on secure digital systems and tools.
To understand how SFL manages these digital risks while continuing its mission, we spoke with Jan Škapa, the organization’s senior director of systems. He shared insights on cybersecurity, advocacy in the information age, and why securing freedom requires more work than ever before.
Note: The original interview has been edited with permission from the interviewee.
About the organization
Students For Liberty (SFL) is the world’s largest pro-liberty student organization that unites young leaders passionate about freedom. It was established in 2008 in the US when Alexander McCobin, then a university student, felt that his pro-liberty ideas didn’t fit into the usual political boxes.
He organized a small roundtable, which grew into a major conference at Columbia University with more than 100 students from 42 schools. That conference made one message clear — pro-liberty students needed a movement to connect, learn, and lead. And that’s how SFL was created.
Hyperfocus on young people
Since 2008, SFL has grown into a global network dedicated to empowering young leaders. But why focus on students? SFL believes they are the ones who will pave the way for change:
“We believe that students have the highest chance of actually changing someone else's mind, and they are also going to become the leaders of tomorrow,” says Jan.
“It’s very hard to convince someone who has already made up their mind and is working a full-time job. But students have time to think about these ideas, convince others, and will eventually become the leaders who change society in the future.”
SFL has already seen these ideas come to life. For example, its Growth for Liberty program in Kenya empowers unemployed youth to start micro farms in urban areas. Participants learn creative techniques like vertical sack gardening while exploring the principles of self-reliance, voluntary exchange, and free markets.
The program includes startup showcases, where young entrepreneurs pitch micro-farming businesses to investors. It’s a perfect example of liberty in action — turning economic independence into opportunity and dignity.
Idea that drives SFL forward: Liberty starts with self-ownership
For Students For Liberty, liberty is more than just a political idea. It’s about owning your life, your work, and your choices.
“Some people still think that liberty means doing whatever you want, but it’s really about owning yourself and your own life. That is the most important part of liberty, and everything starts from there. If you don’t own yourself, then other people or institutions can control you.”
“If you own yourself, you own the products of your work, everything you do, but also your mistakes and the things you do wrong or that hurt others. And that comes with consequences sometimes. Freedom doesn’t mean you are free from the consequences of your actions.”
This philosophy drives SFL’s projects, helping students understand the deeper meaning of freedom. Jan also explains that liberty includes being free to trade, live without unnecessary government interference, and think independently. These pillars — economic, social, and academic freedom — support all of SFL’s work.
“We want people to understand that liberty isn’t fragile because of laws, but because people forget its moral foundation. When you believe that governments grant your rights, you also believe that governments can take them away. But when your rights stem from you being a person, from your natural state of being, you understand that governments can’t just take them away.”
Digital security is a must for a global mission
Digital tools are essential for advocacy groups. As a worldwide organization that operates completely online, SFL knows the benefits — and risks — of relying on digital systems.
Jan says that these systems make their work possible, especially for a remote team spread across different continents. However, the digital space brings vulnerabilities that must be managed carefully.
Jan explains that SFL has put strict data management policies in place and uses reliable, secure software to safeguard sensitive information. By doing so, it minimizes the risk of data leaks and ensures donors and volunteers can trust that their information is protected.
Cybersecurity tools, like VPNs, are also essential for protecting the team and empowering students in restrictive environments. SFL relies on NordVPN to help students securely explore educational resources while safeguarding their privacy online. By using these online security tools, students can maintain their privacy and access important resources, even in difficult situations.
Our initiative
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Jan’s advice for nonprofits
For organizations that lack large budgets, Jan recommends starting small by identifying the most pressing threats. Whether it’s government surveillance, unsafe travel, or possible data breaches, narrowing the focus allows nonprofits to implement targeted solutions.
“Start with that specific thing first. Either read up on resources online, do some research, find an external consultant, or ask another NGO or nonprofit for help. I'm always good to talk to people from other organizations if they want to discuss how to approach these issues.”
”I believe there are many others out there who are willing to share ideas and advice as well. Once you start, it becomes easier to look at the bigger picture and figure out how to tackle things properly,” says Jan.
Strong digital systems, even stronger missions
Students For Liberty relies on digital tools to educate and empower future leaders. By prioritizing cybersecurity, the group protects not just its work but also the principles of liberty. Tools like VPNs, secure data management systems, and smart policies help create a safer online space — one where advocacy can thrive.
Jan’s message to nonprofits is clear — cybersecurity doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Begin with simple tools like VPNs, assess the potential risks to your data and operations, and keep your mission at the forefront. Just as liberty requires constant defense, online privacy and security demand ongoing effort.
As Jan puts it, “Freedom isn’t free. It’s something you need to fight for, and you must always stay vigilant because it only takes one thing to take your freedom away, but it requires constant work to protect it.” For SFL, this effort is well worth it.
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