Motor sport has traditionally been a male dominated domain but the tide is turning thanks to a new generation of motoring enthusiasts.

Women still make up a minority in current motorsports demographics, but at all levels of racing, from grassroots to professional, women make up a greater proportion of competitors than ever before.

The Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS) is breaking down some of these gender stereotypes and paving the way for the next generation of girls into motorsport through the introduction of the Dare to be Different (D2BD) program.

D2BD was founded in 2016 in Europe and is a program designed to increase the number of women involved in motor sport, while showcasing the talent of those that are already employed in the industry.

The events organised range from engineering workshops for school kids to networking sessions for young adults.

Earlier this month 30 students took part in the first Australian based D2BD Schools Program. Held in Port Melbourne, the students were put through their paces, learning from some of the best in the business.

Whether it was trying their hand at karting, a pit stop challenge, a media workshop STEM challenge or a reaction challenge, this program had it all.

“We want to give girls a greater understanding of the different professions and career paths in motor sport.” Dare to be Different, Program Coordinator, Tanja Van Bokhoven said.

CAMS CEO, Eugene Arocca was thrilled with the response the program has sparked.

“It was a terrific day and CAMS was proud to host these young students who now know a bit more about the value of the various roles in motor sport.”

A star-studded line up of leading females from within the industry were in attendance and included; Red Bull Holden Racing Team’s Romy Mayer, media personality Emma Notarfrancesco, Erebu mechanic Bonnie Beard, the team from Monash Motor Sport and Karting Australia all contributing time and expertise to ensure the day was a great success.

Sport and Recreation Victoria Project Officer and CAMS Supporting Victorian Sport and Recreation Program Manager, Denise Rodeh applauded CAMS on the initiative,

“I attended the session and was thrilled when I saw how enthusiastic the girls were about getting involved. CAMS have done a great job in providing an avenue for girls to get involved and gain a broad understanding of the industry and the various career opportunities.”

For more information on the program visit www.cams.com.au/d2bd and register your interest.