James Dornor - Episode 1

We open our Driven By Us podcast with our host Cayana Freeman speaking to James Dornor - CEO of the pioneering community-driven organisation on a mission to empower aspiring leaders from ethnic minorities and underrepresented groups in the automotive & motorsport industry. Recognising the industry's imperative for diversity and inclusion, we provide a safe space facilitated by relatable role models across world-leading organisations with first-hand success stories, founded in April 2023, on a mission to empower and provide an established community network that gives a safe space for those to speak out and empower through motorsports.
James's leadership has culminated in the establishment of the first recognised ethnic minority-led club within Driven By Us through Motorsport UK, serving as a pivotal platform for the black and neurodiverse communities, giving a safe space much needed. This initiative distinctly reflects the value of collaboration, as it prioritises partnerships to improve outcomes and build a more inclusive engineering landscape. A significant achievement under James's stewardship is the tangible impact on individuals' lives, particularly women of colour securing roles in the engineering sector within Formula One. This outcome is a testament to his commitment to excellence everywhere, bringing evidence, expertise, and integrity to everything he does.
James acquired motorsport expertise over the course of 13 years, working as a professional in the automotive and motorsport industry BMW, McLaren Automotive, McLaren GT, Haas F1 and Mercedes AMG F1 Team. He was formerly responsible for maintaining all the electronics and car systems on a range of Mercedes AMG F1 Heritage cars driven by the likes Sir Lewis Hamilton MBE, ranging 2013 - 2023 in their Heritage Centre.
The volunteer lead organisation employ customer-focused approaches to achieve our goals effectively, ensuring lasting representation for young people from diverse backgrounds within the motorsport community. James & Driven By Us was awarded the prestigious Points Of Light by the now former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak MP awarded before the British Grand Prix 2023 and was invited to Buckingham Palace in recognition of his work in engineering and serving the next generation through STEM programmes and initiatives in May 2024.