Isla Mackenzie’s inspiring journey from farming to Formula One (F1) is a testament to her resilience, hard work, and determination. Growing up on a dairy farm in Lewis, Isla’s early experiences tinkering with machinery and driving around the fields set the stage for her successful career in motorsports. She credits her farming background for instilling in her the values of hard work and perseverance that have guided her through the challenges of the male-dominated industry.
Isla’s transition from studying zoology to pursuing a career in motorsport design engineering reflects her willingness to follow her passion, despite societal expectations. As the only girl in her class, she navigated her way through the male-dominated field to secure a job with Williams in 2017. Her role in testing and developing F1 power units at Mercedes High Performance Powertrains showcases her expertise and dedication to the sport.
In her pursuit of becoming a professional racing driver, Isla’s journey has been marked by highs and lows. The financial challenges of the sport have at times weighed heavily on her, but she remains determined to focus on her performance and not let the stress overshadow her passion. Her recent work promotion has provided her with a renewed perspective on her racing ambitions and a commitment to enjoying the journey.
Despite the demands of her career, Isla prioritizes her well-being by ensuring she gets enough sleep, eats nutritious meals, and exercises regularly. Her participation in a charity football match at work not only helped her meet new people but also provided a welcome break from the intensity of the industry. By maintaining a positive outlook and acknowledging the good things in her day, Isla cultivates a mindset of gratitude and resilience.
Drawing parallels between F1 and farming, Isla emphasizes the all-encompassing nature of both pursuits. Just as farmers are constantly thinking about their crops and animals, Isla’s dedication to racing is ever-present in her mind. Her motto “just keep going” reflects her perseverance and determination to succeed in a competitive field.
In addition to her racing career, Isla is involved in supporting Farmstrong Scotland, an initiative aimed at promoting mental health and well-being in the agricultural community. By sharing her story and experiences, she contributes to the conversation around self-care and resilience in challenging environments.
As Isla continues to pursue her dreams in motorsports and historic racing, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and professionals in male-dominated industries. With her unwavering commitment to excellence and well-being, Isla Mackenzie embodies the spirit of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.