In high-performance, mixed-gender environments where passion, hard work, and opportunity define success, a new path is emerging for women striving for excellence. Iron Dames is proud to introduce 'Supported by Iron Dames', a programme designed to propel promising female talents to the next stage of their careers and potentially earn their place among the Iron Dames Elite Team, including, but not limited to motorsport.
A launchpad to excellence
Since its inception in 2018, Iron Dames has continually proven that performance knows no boundaries. With 'Supported by Iron Dames', the scope of that mission is broadened, and the new programme serves as an incubator for future Iron Dames by providing the resources, visibility, and support necessary to unlock opportunities and reach new heights.
Women who consistently demonstrate growth, an unyielding work ethic, and a pursuit of excellence will be considered for full integration into the Iron Dames Elite Team. This selection process ensures that progression is based on merit, dedication, and alignment with the initiative’s long-term vision.
Introducing the first 'Supported by Iron Dames' athletes
The first to join the new initiative are three promising athletes, each embodying the values of the Iron Dames brand: Emma Chalvi, Laura van den Hengel and Ava Lawrence. The depth and breadth of talent set to be nurtured by the programme is highlighted with the representation of three disciplines and generations at its inception.
Laura van den Hengel – a rising star in GT racing
At 33, Dutch driver Laura van den Hengel began her motorsport journey in karting before a six-year hiatus. Returning to competition in 2018, she quickly progressed, making her GT racing debut in 2023 in the European GT Open Cup with Porsche.
In 2024, she completed her first full season, securing multiple top-10 finishes and several top-3 qualifying results. In 2025, she continues her progression, returning to the European GT Open Cup with Porsche, aiming to build on her early success and establish herself as a formidable competitor in endurance racing.
Emma Chalvin – a promising talent in rallying
At just 23, Emma Chalvin, from the French Alps, transitioned from alpine ski racing to motorsport after discovering rallying by way of a 20th birthday present. Her rise has been extraordinary; In 2022, she became the French Women’s Rallycross Champion, marking the beginning of a promising career.
In 2024, she joined the prestigious Beyond Rally programme, an initiative supported by the World Rally Championship (WRC) promoter, aimed at nurturing future rally talents. Competing in the Opel Corsa e-Rally Cup, she finished sixth overall and first among female drivers. With the 'Supported by Iron Dames' platform, Emma is set to elevate her journey on the international rally stage.
Ava Lawrence – a karting prodigy
At just 10 years old, Australian driver Ava Lawrence is making waves in the world of karting. After starting her racing journey in Singapore at six, she quickly developed a passion for the sport, competing in IAME and Rotax championships upon moving to the UAE.
In 2024, she was selected for F1 Academy’s “Discover Your Drive” initiative and became the first female to achieve a podium in the Mini class in the Champions of the Future Academy series. That year, she also impressed at the Iron Dames Young Talents trials. Her other achievements include winning the 2024 MENA Cup as the first female champion in any class, becoming Vice Champion in the 2024-2025 IAME UAE Series, and securing spots at the 2025 Rotax International Trophy and IAME World Finals.
Beyond motorsport: Opening doors for women who dare to dream big
While motorsport remains central to Iron Dames, 'Supported by Iron Dames' extends beyond racing. The initiative welcomes women from various high-performance fields, including equestrian sports and other elite disciplines where women push boundaries to reach the top. By investing in emerging talent and expanding opportunities, Iron Dames reaffirms its mission: empowering ambitious women, fostering excellence, and paving the way for success in competitive arenas.
With 'Supported by Iron Dames', the brand is shaping a new generation of elite athletes and professionals, proving that, with the right support, potential and determination can overcome any barrier. By providing them with a platform to excel, Iron Dames is also inspiring a new generation of women to believe in their dreams and dare to achieve them. Because for the Iron Dames, Every Dream Matters.
Laura van den Hengel: "I am truly honoured to be involved with the ‘Supported by Iron Dames’ project. From the very first day I stepped into the world of car racing, it was always my dream to be part of something as inspiring as this. With only one full season under my belt, being supported by Iron Dames already is nothing short of remarkable. This opportunity proves that with dedication, hard work, and belief in yourself, so much is achievable. I am more determined than ever to show what I can achieve, both on and off the track, and to inspire others to chase their own dreams. Iron Dames is about more than just racing - it’s about empowering women to reach their potential and I’m excited to be walking this path with such an incredible team, still in the early stages of my career."
Emma Chalvin: "Known the world over, for me, the Iron Dames family represents the very symbol of excellence in women's motorsport, so I'm very proud to be among the first drivers to join the ‘Supported by Iron Dames’ programme, following in the footsteps of Sarah Rumeau and Julie Amblard. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and stepping into the Iron Dames family is a big moment in my career. I am deeply grateful to Deborah Mayer for her trust, and I can't wait for the season to start."
Ava Lawrence: "I’m so excited to be joining the Iron Dames! It’s really cool to be part of a team that supports girls in racing. I love karting, and I can’t wait to learn, race, and do my best on track. This is a big opportunity, and I’m ready to have fun and make the team proud!"
