Lewis Hamilton’s Mission to Diversify F1: A Groundbreaking Alliance
Formula 1 and Lewis Hamilton’s Mission 44 have officially joined forces to drive diversity and inclusion in motorsport. This significant step solidifies years of successful collaboration, focusing on providing life-changing opportunities for underrepresented youth.
Founded in 2021 by the seven-time FIA Formula 1 World Champion, Sir Lewis Hamilton, Mission 44 has been on a crusade to encourage greater representation in motorsport. The charity is focused on the pillars of education, empowerment, and employment to tackle social injustices faced by young people. Now, with the backing of Formula 1, Mission 44 aims to broaden its impact even further.
The Road So Far
Since its inception, Mission 44 has made waves by addressing the diversity gap in motorsport. The charity has aimed to create meaningful change through its advocacy and hands-on initiatives. With Formula 1’s support, these ambitions are being supercharged, bringing once-in-a-lifetime experiences to students from marginalized backgrounds, encouraging them to consider careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and motorsport.
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An Event to Remember
In a pioneering move, Mission 44 and Formula 1 will host an inaugural networking event at the upcoming British Grand Prix. This event will unite scholars from the Formula 1 Engineering and Mission 44 MSc Motorsport Engineering scholarship programs. These young minds will exchange knowledge, foster connections, and advance their professional development.
Formula 1 Engineering and Mission 44 MSc Motorsport Engineering scholars will participate in a networking event at the British Grand Prix
Empowering the Future
Both the scholarship schemes and outreach programs provide crucial financial support and career guidance to students, aiming to increase opportunities within the motorsport landscape. Last year’s efforts in Austin, Silverstone, and Sao Paulo touched the lives of over 150 young people.
This renewed commitment will see F1 actively raising awareness for Mission 44’s work, connecting the charity with various organizations across the motorsport industry to identify new apprenticeship opportunities for young people. By doing so, they hope to nurture the next generation of engineers, technicians, and race strategists.
Mission 44 and Formula 1 delivered outreach programmes in Austin, Silverstone, and Sao Paulo last year, positively impacting more than 150 young people
Reflecting on the collaboration, Ellen Jones, Head of ESG at Formula 1, said: “It has been a privilege to help Mission 44 in its mission to make our sport more diverse. We are excited to continue this partnership and are committed to inspiring the next generation of motorsport talent.”
Jason Arthur, CEO of Mission 44, echoed these sentiments, highlighting how this partnership aligns with Lewis Hamilton’s vision when he established the charity. “Together with Formula 1, we will promote awareness and access to motorsport career opportunities. Unified efforts are necessary for lasting change, and we’re enthusiastic about what the future holds.”
Looking Ahead
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to diversify F1. It's not just about opening doors; it’s about smashing them down and building new opportunities for those who have historically been excluded. With Lewis Hamilton's unwavering commitment and Formula 1’s extensive reach, the future looks promising for making motorsport a more inclusive arena.
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