British Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton is helping the next generation pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers.

In 2021, Hamilton launched Mission 44, a foundation named after his race car number, dedicated to creating equal opportunities for young people worldwide. According to its website, the initiative focuses on advancing education, expanding access to STEM and motorsport careers, and empowering the next generation to reach their full potential.

Initiatives include a motorsport scholarship, created in partnership with the Royal Academy of Engineering, that connects students with industry leaders. Recipients include Gerren Ntir, who earned a bachelor’s degree in motorsport engineering and is now pursuing a master’s. He was part of the scholarship’s second cohort.

“Having seen the amazing work Mission 44 has been doing throughout the past year, I knew it was something I wanted to become involved in. Now, embarking on my own journey as one of their motorsport scholars is honestly like a dream come true. Thank you, Mission 44, Royal Academy of Engineering, and Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team, for giving aspiring engineers like me the chance to pursue our goals. I am proud to be a part of a cause – diversifying motorsport – that I hold very close to my heart, considering my background and experiences. I cannot wait for the year ahead and all the exciting opportunities it has in store for me as a Mission 44 scholar,” she expressed on LinkedIn.

Mission 44’s impact began in the United Kingdom and has since expanded to countries like Brazil and the United States. The foundation was born from Hamilton’s experiences, shaped by his reflections on the education system and his journey as the only Black driver in Formula 1.

“I know not every young person has the same opportunities as I have, so despite the championships and the wins and success, setting up Mission 44 has been my proudest achievement so far; through the work that we are doing, we have the chance to build a better future for young people in the UK and around the world hopefully we have the opportunity to create a future that embraces diversity promotes inclusion and breaks down these barriers,” he said in a video shared on the foundation’s YouTube page.

Mission 44 invests in various underfunded or overlooked partners who have been diligently carrying out work that aligns with its mission. This includes 33 partners such as the following:

  • The Advocacy Academy
  • Ann Richards School Foundation
  • Aspiring Heads
  • The Black Curriculum
  • Black Equity Organization
  • The Black Women In Science
  • Driven By Us

“Our second year was one of rapid progress for Mission 44. We supported 33 transformative organizations, enabling them to broaden their impact within education, employment, and youth empowerment. We’re proud that six of these partners are in Brazil and the US, representing our first steps towards global expansions,” a statement from Mission 44 CEO Jason Arthur and Mission 44 chair read in a 2023-2024 annual report.

They added, “Our work to improve diversity in STEM and motorsport also continued at pace through an ever-increasing network of organizations who are dismantling stereotypes and breaking down barriers to entry for a new generation.”