Lily Owuye, 23, is about to step into the fast lane of Formula One. This September, she will begin her role as a graduate engineer in vehicle science with Red Bull Racing F1. Her achievement follows a year-long journey through the Masters in Motorsport Scholarship—a program backed by Lewis Hamilton and the Royal Academy of Engineering.
Owuye is among the first Black women to earn this kind of opportunity in a sport that has long lacked diversity. Her appointment is more than a personal win. It’s a major step forward for representation in motorsport engineering.
Formula One Career Kickstarts Through Lewis Hamilton’s Scholarship
The Masters in Motorsport Scholarship, launched in 2022, was created in response to findings from The Hamilton Commission. Its aim is to address the low number of Black professionals in UK motorsports and the broader STEM sector.
Owuye is one of only eight students selected each year. The scholarship offers financial help, career mentoring, and industry access. Her hard work and passion for motorsport earned her this spot—and now a career with one of the top teams in Formula One.
“This sport reaches so many people and has a really public image,” Lily said. “The work of the scholarship shines a light on the progress being made.”
From London to Leeds to Red Bull Racing
Owuye studied Design Engineering at Imperial College London before earning her MSc in Automotive Engineering at the University of Leeds. Along the way, she took on race team placements and grew her confidence through hands-on motorsport experience.
At Leeds, she also joined the Plus Programme, which supports students from underrepresented backgrounds. “I’m from a working-class background,” she shared. “Neither of my parents went to university… sometimes you suffer from impostor syndrome.”
Support from the Plus Programme reminded her that she wasn’t alone. It helped her stay focused, even when things felt tough.
Being One of the First Black Women Engineers in F1
Lily’s new role at Red Bull puts her in rare company. Few Black women have made it into the engineering side of Formula One. One of her role models is Stephanie Travers, the first Black woman to stand on an F1 podium. Travers is now a senior impact leader at Mission 44, the nonprofit that supports the scholarship.
“Having someone who’s built a really successful career and that being someone you can relate to—it is really inspiring,” said Owuye.
She also highlighted the value of the Mission 44 community, calling it a “family” where everyone feels supported and encouraged.
Giving Back and Inspiring the Next Generation
Lily’s impact goes beyond the engineering room. She took part in a reverse mentoring program at the University of Leeds, sharing her perspective with senior staff, including COO Rachel Brealey.
“It’s been a really good opportunity to have some fantastic discussions,” Lily said. Brealey praised Lily for her resilience, drive, and insight, saying: “Lily’s journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when talent is met with opportunity.”
Now, as Lily enters the world of Formula One, she wants young people from minority backgrounds to feel seen. “There might be people out there who think, ‘I’m not sure if this is the industry I want to target.’” Her story proves it is possible—and that support is out there.
