Dame Hayaatun Sillem Appointed Chair Of Mission 44

Words
Mission 44
Published
10 Sep 2026

Mission 44 today announces the appointment of Dame Hayaatun Sillem as Chair of its Board of Trustees.

Hayaatun's relationship with Mission 44 dates back to its founding. Alongside founder Sir Lewis Hamilton, she co-chaired The Hamilton Commission, the initiative established to understand and address the barriers facing underrepresented individuals in motorsport. The Commission's findings and recommendations went on to lay the foundations for Mission 44 and the work it carries out today.

Hayaatun has served as a member of the board since then, helping guide the organisation through its growth in reach, partnerships and impact. Her appointment as Chair marks the next chapter in that long-standing relationship, placing her at the helm of the Board as Mission 44 continues to scale its work.

“Mission 44 exists to tackle one of the most important challenges we face as a society: creating systems and opportunities that enable all young people to thrive. It’s been a privilege to be involved in the organisation from the outset and, along the way, I've learnt so much from the teachers, students and Youth Advisers who make that possible day in and day out – as well as from our exceptional Founder and the brilliant Mission 44 team. From the Hamilton Commission, which galvanised action in Formula 1, to the Nothing Happens in Isolation campaign, I’ve seen first hand that true partnerships, which place young people at the heart of the action, are one of the best ways to drive meaningful change. I'm honoured and excited to be taking on this role and greatly look forward to working with the Mission 44 team to open up opportunities for more young people from underserved groups across the world.”

Dame Hayaatun Sillem, Chair of Mission 44's Board of Trustees

“We’re delighted to have Hayaatun take on the role of Chair and to continue working with her as we build a fairer future for young people. She has been a driving force on our Board since Mission 44's earliest days, bringing a unique combination of deep expertise in social change and impact, and an unwavering commitment to inclusion, to everything we do. We’re incredibly proud of everything we have achieved together to date, and are grateful to have Hayaatun’s continued expertise, extensive leadership experience and strategic counsel guiding Mission 44’s vision.”

Jason Arthur, CEO of Mission 44