SHE MEANS BUSINESS| How carjacking ordeal led me to Safari Rally racing – Pauline Sheghu

Rally driver Pauline Sheghu and navigator Linet Ayuko are among the few women competing in Kenya’s rally scene, drawn not by financial rewards but by the thrill of pushing boundaries and conquering fear.

Motorsport is widely regarded as one of the most demanding sports, requiring immense skill, focus, and resources. Preparing a rally car and team to compete at the level of the WRC can cost upwards of Sh10 million, factoring in vehicle preparation, safety gear, logistics, and technical support.

Despite the financial and physical demands, Sheghu and Ayuko say their motivation goes far beyond the cost.

“For me it’s the challenge,” says Sheghu, who previously worked in the media industry before venturing into other businesses, including motorsport. “Rally driving pushes you beyond what you think your limits are.”

Ayuko shares a similar perspective, describing rally driving as a sport that constantly tests both mental and physical endurance.

“You are navigating rough terrain at high speed and making split-second decisions,” she says. “It teaches you discipline, resilience, and confidence.”

Both drivers say the growing visibility of women in motorsport is encouraging more female enthusiasts to explore the sport.

Kenya has long been known globally for its tough rally terrain, particularly during the WRC Safari Rally in Naivasha, where drivers face unpredictable weather, rocky roads, and challenging navigation.

For Sheghu and Ayuko, competing in such conditions represents more than just sport. It is an opportunity to break stereotypes and inspire more women to step into spaces traditionally seen as male-dominated.

As the rally season continues, the two drivers hope their journeys will encourage others to pursue their passions — even when the road ahead looks daunting.