Maya Jama, the 26-year-old television and radio presenter, has been announced as the first judge of the ABB FIA Formula E ‘Open Talent Call for Presenters’. The competition, launched on 12 August 2020, seeks to discover the next star presenter or commentator for the Formula E Championships.
Open to 18-24-year-olds aspiring to ignite their career in sports broadcasting, the contest invites all regardless of experience or background. The only criteria are the age bracket and the requirement to be an English-speaking resident of either the UK, France, or Germany.
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Though young herself, Maya has worked in numerous impressive positions, from co-presenting Sport Relief on BBC One, Trending Live! on 4Music, Cannonball on ITV, True Love or True Lies with Danny Dyer on MTV, the first series of The Circle on Channel 4. She has also presented Radio 1’s Greatest Hits slot on Friday and Saturday evenings.
With this extensive industry experience, Maya will undoubtedly bring unique expertise and inspiration to her new Formula E judge role. She will be joined with other well-known judges, who are promised to be announced shortly.
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Katie Tracton, Chief Communications Officer of Formula E said: “We’re delighted to have Maya join us as an official judge for the Formula E Open Talent Call for Presenters. Her extensive presenting experience and shared values around increasing opportunities for diverse, young people will make her an excellent judge.
“The ABB FIA Formula E Championship aims to deliver a better future through racing. This competition is the first of Formula E’s Positive Futures initiatives targeting talent from underrepresented groups. Having recognised and respected voices like Maya’s supporting us on our mission is essential as we nurture a culture of inclusivity that welcomes everyone.”
Together, the judges will whittle 15 shortlisted entrants down to 4 semi-finalists. The successful 4 will then be invited to attend Formula E pre-season testing and be set a series of on-screen challenges. They will also each receive mentorship and media training.
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Maya Jama said: “I’m really excited to be working with Formula E and think it’s really important to be able to widen access to this industry, so I’m honoured to be a part of it and can’t wait to see who we discover along the way.
“I’m often asked for advice about breaking into the industry and wish there were more opportunities like this. As a kid growing up you just didn’t really see people who looked like me presenting shows, and initiatives like this really make a big difference. It will be lifechanging for someone and such a special opportunity for me to be a part of something that gives young people a chance they might never have had. Things like the city you come from, how you look, or your family situation should never exclude you from getting a chance at pursuing your dreams.”
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Founded with the intention to accelerate the development and adoption of EVs to counteract the devastating effects of climate change, the ABB FIA Formula E Championship states that they are looking for diverse young voices who are #positivelycharged.
Their Open Talent Call for Presenters is the first activity in Formula E’s Positive Futures programme which focuses on providing opportunities for young, diverse talent both on and off the track. This competition’s winner will earn a coveted paid role for the opening race of Season 7, in Santiago, Chile in January 2021.
With the first-round entry portal closing at midnight (BST) on 12 September, applicants are invited to submit a 30-60 second video via Formula E’s website showcasing why they should be Formula E’s newest presenter.
