Rough childhood is an understatement when it comes to describing Lewis Hamilton’s. In school, being one of only three children of color, he was thrown bananas at, called the n-word, picked last when choosing teams, and this list, unfortunately, goes on. Such unwarranted burdens, however, built an unbreakable man who now wants to leave the world a better place than how he found it. His latest spirited endeavor is aimed at today’s children who dare to dream as big as the 7-time champion himself.
The British GP week has begun. But before Lewis Hamilton takes to Silverstone for his home race, he’ll make a slow pit-stop over at the Cbeebies headquarters. The Mercedes driver will read an inspiring bedtime story penned by none other than his compatriot, award-winning author Manjeet Mann, and illustrated by Amanda Quartey. Titled ‘Small’s Big Dream’, this magical story promotes the ideals of believing in oneself and the power of dreams.
Cbeebies posted a video of Hamilton announcing his debut at bedtime stories. “Hello, I am Lewis,” he began, introducing himself to the children. “When I was younger, maybe about your age, I dreamed of being a racing driver. There were many times that that dream didn’t seem like it would come true. But with a lot of hard work and the love and friendship of those around me, it finally did.”
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Elaborating on what Mann’s book evoked in him, he said, “The book that I chose, I felt, was really inspiring. It reminded me of my childhood and the big dreams that I had as a kid. This story really emphasizes that no dream is too big or small. And as long as you believe in yourself, continue to work hard, stay focused, give it absolutely everything, and keep chasing that dream, anything is possible.”
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With this, Lewis Hamilton joins a great list of celebrities like Tom Hardy and Jason Momoa reading bedtime stories to children on the BBC. The 7-time champion is as great a role model as the F1 driver that he is. He has inspired not only his countrymen but ensured an earth-wide impact. Only a few days before announcing his bit for the children, his actions catered to an older demographic.
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Lewis Hamilton empowers the British youth ahead of the UK General elections
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Lewis Hamilton inspiring kids—Is he the most influential F1 driver of our time?
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As you read this, the United Kingdom is gearing up for its 2024 general elections. On America’s Independence, the 4th of July, British youth will head to the polls. With the Conservatives tipped to lose their 14-year run to the Labour Party, a shake-up might be expected. Though the UK’s median age is higher than ever, today’s youth hold the power to change the country with their vote.
Ahead of this momentous election, Lewis Hamilton’s charitable foundation, Mission 44, shared the views of their Youth Advisory Board members. They urged the youth to perform their duty to put “young people’s agenda on the table.” The Ferrari-bound driver shared this post on his Instagram story to further energize his countrymen.
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Well, it looks like the Briton has a packed schedule for this week. From reading bedtime stories, and voting on Thursday, to returning to his day job of racing on Friday. With teammate George Russell securing an unlikely Austrian GP victory, Hamilton will look to one-up his compatriot with a home victory.
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Lewis Hamilton inspiring kids—Is he the most influential F1 driver of our time?