FIA Announces New Women in Motorsport Mentorship Programme
3 min readFIA Announces New Women in Motorsport Mentorship Programme
In an effort to foster growth and knowledge sharing among women in motorsport, the FIA has launched an innovative global development initiative: the Women in Motorsport Mentorship Programme. This programme is designed to pair experienced women in the industry with those wishing to advance or start their careers in motorsport, promoting a culture of learning, collaboration, and professional development.
Launch Event
The programme was officially unveiled during the FIA 2024 Conference held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. This launch was simultaneously linked to the FIA Women in Motorsport networking event at Le Mans, France. Leading the announcement were key figures such as Sara Mariani, Director of the FIA Sustainability and D&I Department, former FIFA Secretary General and current FIA Senate member Fatma Samoura, Women in Motorsport Commission Chair Burcu Cetinkaya, FIA Vice President for Sport – South America Fabiana Ecclestone, WRC Commission Chair Pernilla Solberg, and FIA EDI Consultant Tanya Kutsenko.
Programme Objectives
The Women in Motorsport Mentorship Programme aims to facilitate both personal and professional growth. Less experienced individuals, or mentees, will be paired with seasoned professionals, or mentors, to foster an environment of support and guidance. Mentors will share their knowledge, experiences, and advice, providing mentees with valuable insights that will help them navigate their professional journeys. This mentorship is designed to accelerate the development of the mentees, offering them a strong foundation and network within the motorsport industry.
Digital Platform
The programme will be hosted online, allowing for flexible and accessible interaction regardless of location. This digital platform ensures that participants can easily schedule meetings and share resources, making the mentorship process more convenient and efficient.
Application Process
The application process for club participation and individual registrations is straightforward and efficient. Each club will receive a dedicated email with a unique link to apply, and clubs can nominate up to two participants. Applications will be processed on a “first come, first served” basis. Women and girls who are not linked to a club but are interested in becoming mentors or mentees can apply directly through the FIA’s dedicated portal.
Statements and Goals
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem highlighted the importance of diversity in motorsport, stating, “It is important that motorsport diversifies, and here at the FIA we are committed to making our sport more accessible to all. This new programme will help to create a network of support and learning for women, ensuring accessibility and opening up new opportunities in line with our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion. I am proud to work with so many accomplished women in our sport and I champion their voices.”
The FIA has been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion within motorsport. The Women in Motorsport Commission, established in 2009, has played a crucial role in changing the sport’s culture to better facilitate and value the participation of women. Through initiatives like the mentorship programme, the FIA aims to continue this progress, ensuring that women are not only recognized but also supported by the highest governing body in motorsport.
Future Prospects
This mentorship programme is a significant step forward in the FIA’s ongoing efforts to build better and more accessible pathways into motorsport for women. By developing programmes that advance female participation both on and off the track, and by raising awareness of the diverse roles available to women within the industry, the FIA demonstrates its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. This programme promises to create lasting opportunities and support networks that will help women thrive in the dynamic world of motorsport.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the FIA’s Women in Motorsport Mentorship Programme is a landmark initiative aimed at empowering women in the motorsport industry. By connecting experienced professionals with aspiring individuals, the programme seeks to create a robust network of support and learning, ensuring that women have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. As the programme opens for applications, it marks a significant step towards a more inclusive and diverse future for motorsport.
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