RMIT student driving change at the Melbourne Formula 1 Grand Prix

Faye Romero, an Engineering and Computer Science student, took part in a panel discussion run by Study Melbourne that explored diversity and inclusion in Formula 1.

Faye Romero is the Electronics Lead of RMIT Motorsport and is studying a double degree in Engineering and Computer Science.

She was invited by Study Melbourne to take part in a panel discussion where they spoke about diversity and inclusion in sport, education and Formula 1 and its aligned industries.

Five women stand together, posing in front of an image of the Melbourne skyline.

(L-R): Dr Belle Lim, Caroline Hartnett, Acting Director of International Education and Study Melbourne, Faye Romero, Sally Curtain and Sarah Styles.

Faye was joined by Dr Belle Lim, Senior Diversity Equity and Manager at MindTribes and Founder of Future Forte Australia, Sarah Styles, Director of the Office for Women, Sport and Recreation at the Victorian Government and Sally Curtain, CEO of Bendigo Kangan Institute.

Faye said her experience was exciting, yet intimidating, as she was surrounded by individuals advocating for an intersectional approach to gender equality in male-dominated industries.

“During the panel, I spoke about my experiences in RMIT Motorsport, both highlights and setbacks, and how these experiences have affected my career,” she said.

“I spoke about how I knew as an international student, I needed to stand out amongst other job candidates in interviews, and that is what led me to joining the Motorsport team.”

Faye also reflected on what her fellow panelists said about their experiences creating spaces for women to excel.

Faye poses in front of the Aston Martin pit stop area.

As part of her experience, Faye got to take part in a pit walk.

“Sarah and Sally both spoke about being confident in your own voice, and this really resonated with me,” she said.

In a male-dominated field, learning how to stay firm and stand my ground and knowing my worth is in fact one of the most valuable lessons in engineering and motorsport.

Faye was extremely grateful to have been asked to take part in the panel discussion and walked away from the event feeling empowered.

“All day I was surrounded by inspiring people, and I felt both comforted and excited by the fact that while achieving gender equality still has a long way to go, we are continuously celebrating each other’s successes along the way.”

Story: Sheridan van Gelderen

09 April 2024

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RMIT student driving change at the Melbourne Formula 1 Grand Prix