ASTON MARTIN Aramco Cognizant Formula One® Team (AMF1 Team) and The Aleto Foundation, a leading charitable organisation dedicated to promoting social mobility among young people from underrepresented communities, will work closely with sixth form schools and colleges to identify talented and motivated students (aged 17 and above) who exhibit a keen interest in pursuing careers in STEM and motorsport.

The selected individuals will have access to a range of unique educational and mentorship programmes, designed to develop their skills, knowledge, and networks within the motorsport industry.

The partnership represents a shared commitment to addressing the barriers faced by young people from ethnic minority backgrounds in the field of motorsport. Combining the expertise and resources of both organisations, this initiative seeks to empower aspiring young talent, providing them with the necessary tools, guidance, and opportunities to thrive within the industry.

By collaborating with companies that prioritise diversity and inclusion, we can collectively work towards breaking down barriers and providing equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background

David Villa-Clarke, CEO of The Aleto Foundation

The nine-month educational programme includes a Leadership Masterclass Day at Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One® Team’s Technology Campus. This will include a public speaking workshop, fireside chat with senior leaders and a tour of the new AMR Technology Campus. The delegates will then be set a business-related challenge, which they will present on before a panel of senior industry leaders in November.

In February 2024, the young students will also gain work experience at AMF1 Team with hands-on involvement in various aspects of the team’s operations, from engineering and design to marketing and communications, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of the sport.

In addition, each young student will benefit from being assigned an AMF1 Team mentor. Through the nine-month mentorship programme, overseen by The Aleto Foundation, the students will be paired with accomplished professionals, enabling them to benefit from invaluable guidance, industry insights, and real-world experience, while providing the professionals an opportunity to benefit from reverse mentorship.

Together we have devised a valuable mentorship programme providing guidance, knowledge and hands-on experience in the real-world environment of a top Formula One® team

Martin Whitmarsh, Group CEO of Aston Martin Performance Technologies

The Aleto Foundation was founded by Sir Ken Olisa in 2010 and has helped to develop over 1,000 young people through leadership and mentoring programmes. This collaboration aims to provide an insight into the exceptional opportunities that exists in Formula One® and paves the way for a more inclusive and diverse future in the world of motorsport.

Martin Whitmarsh, Group CEO of Aston Martin Performance Technologies, said: “By working with The Aleto Foundation we can offer opportunities to students from underrepresented communities and make real progress on the journey towards a more inclusive and diverse future in motorsport.

“Together we have devised a valuable mentorship programme providing guidance, knowledge and hands-on experience in the real-world environment of a top Formula One® team. This collaboration will benefit the AMF1 Team with diverse voices within our organisation which sets us up for further success in the future.”

David Villa-Clarke, CEO of The Aleto Foundation, said: “We are delighted to form this partnership with Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One® Team. By collaborating with companies that prioritise diversity and inclusion, we can collectively work towards breaking down barriers and providing equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background.

“Aleto is committed to levelling up the playing field in society and by combining our joint expertise and resources, we can make a tangible impact in promoting social mobility and diversifying the motorsport industry. We look forward to developing our relationship with the AMF1 Team, who recognise the importance of inclusivity and diversity within the sport.”