Racing champ Wahome out to empower youth in Kibera

A year on after signing for BRDC Formula 4 outfit Chris Dittmann Racing, Kenyan racing champion Jeremy Wahome has rolled out a project meant to inspire youth reach their full potential.

The 18-year-old on Friday launched the first JeremyWahome Racing (JWR) library in Kibera, a project in line with the fourth Sustainable Development Goal (SDG4) on Education which calls to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all”.

The library was constructed and stocked by Wahome as part of his education program that seeks to improve access and quality of education for needy students through support for learning materials and construction of school facilities.

“When I reflect on my journey to where I am today, I can trace it back to accessing racing information online. The availability of this resource enabled me to live out my passion. There are extraordinary opportunities available in this country and beyond which the youth can tap into to make a living and to harness their potential.

“I would like to implore the Government, corporates and donors to contribute towards building better learning facilities in the country and particularly in low income communities,” Wahome said during the launch.

Youth from Kibera will now benefit from better learning facilities at the JWR facility located at the heart of the slum.

Kibera Member of Parliament, Ken Okoth, who also attended the function said the venture would boost education in the region.

“It is always inspiring to see a successful young person, reinvesting in the community to better his peers. Wahome is beacon of hope for the youth. On behalf of the people of Kibera, I would like to appreciate his contribution to this community, where the benefits of his investment will change many lives for the better,” he said.

Wahome’s story is an inspiring tale of dreams and passion; he began his motorsport career in karts aged eight and has progressed to reach F2.

He raced in the Formula BMW Asia Cup Series in 2016, held at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia where hecompeted in the Super-Six category in June before taking part in one round of the full Asia Cup in August, claiming three top rookie awards with two runner-up finishes and a third place from five races.

He currently resides in Cheltenham – UK where he is able to handle his racing commitments as well as his studies at Cheltenham College.

His vision is to raise awareness of the need for better learning facilities as well as to empower young people through sport to fulfil their potential and achieve their dreams.