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.

On the announcement of her new role Hayaatun says, “Mission 44’s purpose has resonated with me since before its inception, and it's been a privilege to help build an organisation working to change the systems that help young people from underserved communities to thrive, from classroom to career. Along the way, I've learnt so much from the teachers, students and Youth Advisers who make that possible day in and day out.

"From the first Hamilton Commission, which led to an industry-first DEI Charter in F1, to the Nothing Happens in Isolation campaign, I’ve seen first hand that real change happens when you put young people at the centre of it, and that working in collaboration is often where the most meaningful progress happens.

“I'm honoured to take on this role and to continue pushing for more opportunities for young people across the world.”

Jason Arthur, CEO of Mission 44, says, “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.”