The big interview - Nehereen Ismail

By FRANKLINE OKUTOYI

Nehereen Ismail is the youngest female Kenyan of Asian origin competing in the Kenya safari rally as a navigator. She joined the sport last year and so far has competed in five races. She broke a record for being the first ever female Asian navigator to finish a rally competition.

She is also the first ever female rally navigator to stand in formula two. Her advice to you? Follow your dreams, have faith in God and listen to your leaders. She answered questions from these pupils

Mackenzie Ondari, 11 years

What makes rally cars move faster than other cars? Who inspired you to join rallying?

Nehereen: Rally cars are made in a special way compared to the other vehicles. Their uniqueness matches with rally trained drivers enables them move faster compared to the normal vehicles. My family’s long rallying history that includes my uncle Abdul Sidi and my cousins inspired me to join the sport.

Edwin Sindano, 11 years

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your career?

Nehereen: Though I have never experienced major challenges, I would say one of the biggest challenge is being shy in asking for information. Being afraid I think is the main challenge facing a navigator. Information is power and therefore having information on anything is the best thing ever to any person. Unfortunately, many rally drivers and navigators are reluctant to ask for information from experienced navigators and drivers.

Laurene Obara, 11 years

Who is the best navigator? What made you choose rally as your favourite sport?

Nehereen: The best navigator is someone who gives right information to his or her driver. He or she should be able to read the information to the driver as fast as possible but in an accurate manner. I grew up watching motor sports and I came to like it. That is the reason I chose it as my best sport.

Joy Mumbi, 11 years

At what age can someone start rallying? What do you fear most while rallying?

Nehereen: Someone can start practicing to become a rally driver at a tender age. However, for one to joining the sport, one must not be less than 18 years to be entitled to own a driving license.