Sammy-Jo Stanley; From the Garage Floor to Leading a Thriving Car Community
We asked you to tell us about yourself or nominate Driven Women that deserved some recognition. Those that are quietly changing the perception of women in the car community or Autosport, those that are forgoing a way forward and helping inspire others to join us.
Every week we will be featuring a member of this group who deserves recognition and we hope to see many of them at our upcoming meets and on stage at The British Motor Show in August.
In the first of our weekly insights, meet Sammy-Jo Stanley, nominated by Sarah Hamilton, and deservedly so.
For Sammy-Jo Stanley, cars have never just been a passion—they’ve been a lifeline, a purpose, and a powerful way to bring people together.
Her journey began almost from birth. At just 12 months old, Sammy-Jo was already immersed in the world of motorsport, accompanying her dad to short oval circuit races. What started as childhood weekends at the track quickly became a way of life, with racing often filling three days a week. By the age of 12, she had stepped into the driver’s seat herself, competing in mini stocks and beginning her own story within the sport.
But Sammy-Jo’s passion didn’t stop at driving. Growing up hands-on in the garage, she played an active role in building and maintaining race cars—rebuilding engines, carrying out repairs, and learning every aspect of what makes a car perform. Raised around a scrapyard, her curiosity and love for mechanics only deepened, shaping the skilled and knowledgeable enthusiast she is today.
Behind this journey, however, is a story of resilience. Having faced bullying during her younger years, the automotive world became a safe space—one where she found acceptance, confidence, and a sense of belonging. It was this experience that would later define her mission.
Determined to create that same supportive environment for others, Sammy-Jo founded BAD Abarth South Coast, a community built on inclusivity and shared passion. What began as a small club has grown into a thriving network over the past five years, bringing together people from all walks of life. For many, it’s more than just a car club—it’s a place where they feel seen, supported, and connected.
Her impact goes far beyond the automotive scene. Through her work, Sammy-Jo has raised over £15,000 for mental health and hospice charities, supporting individuals and families when they need it most. It’s a reflection of her belief that community should extend beyond cars and into meaningful, real-world change.
Today, she continues to champion that vision as an admin for the Wessex Car Collective, while organising over 40 events each year—creating spaces where people can come together, share their passion, and feel part of something bigger.
Whether she’s behind the wheel of her Abarth or enjoying summer drives in her classic BMW E30 325i, Sammy-Jo remains deeply connected to every corner of car culture. A regular at Goodwood Revival, she embraces both the heritage and the future of the automotive world.
Sammy-Jo Stanley embodies what it means to be a Driven Woman—turning passion into purpose, and using her journey to uplift others along the way. Her story is not just about cars, but about community, resilience, and the power of creating spaces where everyone belongs
