In an exclusive interview with NBS Sport, Ugandan motorsport legend Leila Blick Mayanja shared her insights on the state of women in sports, particularly focusing on the barriers faced by Ugandan women in motorsport.
Leila highlighted the significant financial burdens as the biggest challenge for women in motorsport. She emphasized that motorsport is an expensive sport, which can be a deterrent for many aspiring female participants. However, she also pointed out that motorsport is open to women in various capacities, not just as competitors. “Women should have more confidence and be open to other roles like being a marshal or an official, which don’t require as much financial burden,” Leila advised.
Blick who is a former General Secretary of the Federation of MotorSport Uganda stressed the importance of women exploring different avenues within the sport. According to her, administrators can play a crucial role in encouraging more women to participate in sports by being more welcoming to women administrators on their boards and ensuring that women’s national teams receive the same focus and support as men’s teams.
Leila, along with her sister-in-law Noella Blick, is actively working on initiatives to accommodate and encourage more women in motorsport. Leila’s “Women in Motorsport” initiative aims to start women out at the karting level, providing them with the skills and experience needed to climb their way up in the sport.
“We want to create more opportunities and provide a pathway for women in motorsport,” Leila explained. “It’s about giving them the confidence and the platform to succeed.”
Leila Blick Mayanja’s dedication to promoting women in motorsport and her initiatives are paving the way for future generations of female athletes in Uganda, ensuring they have the support and opportunities needed to thrive in the sport.
