150 university students attended an information session at the FIA General Assemblies in Kigali, Rwanda today.

The two-hour session aimed to inspire students about potential careers - from communications and mobility, to esports and engineering.

The event was opened by President of the Rwanda Automobile Club Christian Gakwaya and Rwandan Rally Champion Kanagire Christian.

Students learnt about the FIA from FIA Senior HR Director, Alessandra Malhamé, who then explained how students can be best prepared for modern career search, and from FIA Technical Director Xavier Mestelan and FIA Safety Director Nuno Costa, who explored the technical and behavioural DNA of motorsport engineers.

The programme then continued with a talk from Professor of Sport Policy and Management David Hassan (FIA University). His talk explored sporting academia, and his own research within the space.

FIA Sustainability and D&I Director Sara Mariani then went on to highlight the enormous growth in sustainability careers, while FIA Road Safety and Global Advocacy Director Stefano Ammirati emphasised how he and his team are working to make a difference to the lives and safety of the global mobility community. 

Single Seater Director Nikolas Tombazis then ran a short Q&A session, answering students' questions about single seater series and careers.

The afternoon’s sessions closed with a talk from FIA Esports Project Manager Eric Stranne explaining the Federation’s growing commitment to Esports, and a presentation from FIA Sports Communications Team Lead Geraldine Sherwin about the value of communications in bringing all these stories to life.

Students from Rwanda Polytechnic, the University of Rwanda, African Leadership University, Carnegie Mellon University, and Kepler College attended the event.

As a knowledge-led Federation, the FIA is deeply invested in opportunities for education and learning. Its research and development arm, the FIA University, offers tailored training and educational programmes, both independently and alongside partners, including the Columbia Business School, Dublin City University and Cranfield University.

This event is part of the FIA’s wider educational programme at the 2024 FIA General Assemblies Week, which will also include learning and development sessions focused on funding opportunities, sustainability, and membership benefits.