SPEED SISTERS: Palestine

If ever there is an example of grit, determination, strength and passion, it is the Speed Sisters. Defiance is by far our most awakened inclination, it can fill us with unshakeable purpose and change our perspective to see opportunity in challenge. The Speed Sisters are a living example of such purpose. An all girl driving crew based in (and a product of) Palestine, they would have more reasons stacked against them than most. Yet they pushed through, found each other and no doubt, inspiring other Palestinians to do the same. 

Living in Israeli occupied Palestine, many are frustrated, scared and forced to make do. While economic and social disruption is well documented, the loss of hope and the will to dream is, I believe, one of the most devastating causalities of the occupation. The Speed Sisters found racing out of a desperate need to express themselves, release their frustrations, and take control of their lives. They believe to not pursue your passions is to not live, and not living means the oppressors win. 

While they're defiantly expressing themselves through driving fast, they've managed to become the first all female racing group in the Arab world, smashing stereotypes whilst they're at it. They've blown the lid off expectations of women in the Arab world (not all Arab countries ban women from driving) AND women in the world of motor sports and garnering support from around the world and putting their home towns on the map... and most importantly, living.  

After two successful crowdfunding campaigns to produce a film about their story in 2012 and 2014, IVV is keenly waiting to share the final film about Speed Sisters Noor, Marah, Mona, Maysoon and Betty. While you're waiting you can follow them on their facebook and twitter

Heleana is a force of nature. The founder of In Venus Veritas and The Petrolette, and a co-founder of Rising Sun Workshop. Heleana shares her love of vintage cars, riding motorcycles, and (not-so-secretly) dreams of flying planes and piloting a riva aquariva (a la Sophia Loren) very fast through the canals of Venice. Supportive and connected, community is her lifeblood, and she is as real as they come.