Empowering the Next Generation: My Experience at the Girls on Track Event
I recently had the honour of attending a Girls on Track event at the University of South Wales, Trinity Saint David. This event was a fantastic opportunity to not only witness first-hand the impact Girls on Track is having on young girls but also to represent Not Just Girls in its first official capacity. A heartfelt thank you goes to Jenny for extending the invitation and organising such an inspiring and insightful day.
The Power of Girls on Track
Girls on Track is more than just an introduction to motorsport for young girls. It’s a programme designed to shift mindsets, challenge gender stereotypes, and empower girls to see motorsport as a viable and exciting career path. Throughout the day, it was clear to me just how crucial initiatives like this are in helping young girls realise their potential in industries that are often perceived as male-dominated.
From hands-on activities to engaging talks from industry professionals, the girls in attendance were given a comprehensive overview of the opportunities available to them in motorsport. These experiences are vital in helping to shape their future ambitions and break down barriers that society or preconceived notions may have built.
Not Just Girls: Supporting Women in STEAM
This event marked my first appearance as the founder of Not Just Girls, an organisation that aims to inspire and support young women in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) fields. At Not Just Girls, we are dedicated to providing mentorship, resources, and role models to young women with a passion for these industries. Events like Girls on Track align perfectly with our mission to create pathways into fields where women have been historically underrepresented, especially in sectors like motorsport.
The day was filled with meaningful conversations. I had the opportunity to speak with girls aged 12-14 who were genuinely excited about motorsport and the possibilities it holds for them. What stood out the most in these discussions was the optimism and drive these young women already possessed. Many of them shared their dream jobs and ambitions without any hesitation, and to my delight, none of them saw any barriers in their way.
This was incredibly encouraging to witness, especially given the challenges women often face in industries like motorsport. The girls were driven, confident, and eager to learn more about how they could pursue their passions.
The Role of Mentorship in Breaking Barriers
At Not Just Girls, we believe that providing young women with the right support and guidance is essential to ensuring their success in STEAM fields. Mentorship plays a significant role in helping girls navigate the complexities of these industries, and events like Girls on Track are perfect platforms to spark those initial connections. By exposing girls to professionals in motorsport and giving them the tools to explore their interests, we are helping to nurture a generation of women who will enter these fields with confidence and determination.
The Future of Girls in Motorsport
The Girls on Track event left me feeling incredibly optimistic about the future of women in motorsport. With programmes like these in place, we are witnessing a shift in how young girls perceive industries like motorsport. They are no longer viewing these fields as out of reach or "for boys only." Instead, they see the endless possibilities and are ready to pursue their dreams.
I am excited about the potential collaborations between Not Just Girls and initiatives like Girls on Track. Together, we can continue to break down barriers, provide essential mentorship, and inspire more girls to enter industries where they can truly thrive.