At just 11 years old, Bwana Gessesse stood on the podium at Portugal’s famed Portimão Circuit, after finishing third in the 2024 Portuguese Karting Championship.
He was thousands of miles from home, yet one lap closer to a dream he never let go of becoming Africa’s first Formula 1 driver.
What makes this moment remarkable is not just his age or the victory, it’s where his journey began in the car-free island of Lamu, where donkeys outnumber vehicles, and racing dreams are as rare as asphalt.
Bwana Gessesse’s Early Life
Bwana was born and raised in the heart of Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its centuries-old Swahili architecture, winding alleys, and serene pace of life.
In Lamu, the idea of motorsport felt as distant as the roar of an F1 engine, but he had one advantage a mother determined to help him achieve his dreams.
Umra Omar, his mother, is a humanitarian and the first woman to run for Governor of Lamu. She wanted more for her children than what the island’s borders could offer.
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How the Journey Started
It all started with a visit to Whistling Moran, a racetrack outside Nairobi where Bwana crashed more than once.
Each skid on the tarmac only deepened his love for racing. Bwana would later relocate to Portugal where he initially faced hurdles and had to learn a new language, a new culture, and a steep learning curve. Yet, every setback only fuelled his passion.
Today, Bwana is enrolled at the prestigious Baby Race Academy in Italy, training alongside Europe’s best young drivers. When he is not behind the wheel, he is buried in schoolwork a reminder that excellence demands more than just talent.
“I want to be the first African in Formula 1,” he says.
“Not just for me, but for every kid from a small place who thinks big dreams aren’t meant for them.”
Bwana carries the spirit of Lamu steady, grounded and determined. His journey is proof that even from the quietest corners, the loudest dreams can take flight.
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About Bwana Gessesse
Bwana Gessesse is a Kenyan racing driver born on 23rd December 2013. He is currently racing in the Mini GR3 category with Baby Race Academy, one of Europe’s top programs for young drivers.
He is currently 139 cm tall, weighs 39 kg, and proudly represents Kenya every time he is on the track. He lives by the motto “Built Different”, drawing inspiration from legends like Ayrton Senna and Oscar Piastri, whose stories fuel his ambition.
His favourite food is sushi, and his biggest wish right now is to experience the thrill of stepping into an F1 paddock.
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