Motorsport is often described as a high speed arena where precision, passion, and perseverance collide. For Noella Blick, the journey began 23 years ago in the co-driver’s seat, but her path soon accelerated beyond the rally stages into leadership roles that have left an indelible mark on African motorsport.
In 2010, Noella transitioned into officiating as a Technical Delegate, a role she continues to uphold with distinction. Two years later, she was appointed as the FMU Women in Motorcycling (WIM) Commission Representative for Uganda, championing inclusivity and representation in the sport. Her leadership trajectory has since soared. From 2022 to 2024, she served as the first female Vice President of the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU), before taking on the prestigious role of Chair of the FIM Africa Women in Motorcycling Commission in 2023.
Her dedication extends across commissions, where she serves not only in the FMU WIM Commission but also in the FMU Safety and Medical Commission, advocating for both equality and rider safety.
While technical training prepares one for officiating, leadership, Noella believes, requires vision and resilience. Her participation in the FIM Future Leaders Programme proved transformative. The eight-month initiative gathered 20 emerging leaders an equal number of women and men from across the globe. “Interacting with and learning from other FMNs was both eye opening and deeply inspiring,” she reflects.
Throughout her journey, Noella has drawn strength from the pioneering women of African motorsport, including the late Beaulah Shoeman, Jacqui Montero, Julie Wahome, Gilly Dykes, and Sheryl Kibaki. She also acknowledges the support of the FIM team-Barbara Vincitini, Chloé Vermot, Ganna Dumont, and Damiano Zamana as well as FIM President Jorge Viegas, whose leadership insights left a lasting impression.
Her pride extends to the four women from her CONU who stood alongside her during the leadership program: Catherine Ozeros (Morocco), Judy Luyo (Kenya), Lala Rasajison (Madagascar), and Fiona Tsiranana (Madagascar).
As her facilitator, Nadia Bonjour, wisely remarked: “Seeds have been planted and we are empowered to harvest them one step at a time.” For Noella, this is more than a metaphor. It is a mission.
Today, she looks forward with unwavering commitment to empowering women and girls in motorcycling across Africa, ensuring that the sport not only thrives but evolves into a space where every competitor, official, and leader can find their rightful place on the track of opportunity.
