Zandara Kennedy

Zandara Kennedy, known affectionately as "Zee," is a trailblazer in the realms of stunt performance and motorsport, hailing from Vancouver, Canada. Her journey from the vibrant streets of Ottawa to the adrenaline-fueled tracks of Formula Drift encapsulates a saga of passion, resilience, and groundbreaking achievements. At the heart of Zee's career is a profound love for motors and the art of precision driving, a skill she has honed across a spectrum of vehicles, from scooters to tractor trailers. Her prowess behind the wheel is not just about speed and precision; it's a dance with danger, especially when drifting them sideways becomes second nature.

Zee's venture into professional drifting marks a significant milestone in her career. Under the mentorship of FD Veteran Taka Aono at Drift School USA, she not only refined her skills but also earned her Formula Drift ProSpec license in 2021, becoming the first Canadian woman to compete in professional drifting by 2023. Her debut season in FD's 20th anniversary was a collaborative effort with Taka and his longtime spotter, Yoshie Shuyama, highlighting her commitment to excellence and teamwork​​.

Beyond the racetrack and stunt sets, Zandara's dedication extends to fostering diversity and inclusion within motorsport. Her work with organizations such as Racing Pride and Athlete Ally exemplifies her commitment to creating a more welcoming space for LGBTQ+ individuals and women in a traditionally male-dominated field. Kennedy's initiative to conduct women-only events and those focusing on women of color in stunt work underlines her belief in empowering underrepresented groups within the industry​​.

Kennedy's identity as a queer woman has not only shaped her personal journey but has also propelled her to challenge the norms within motorsports and stunt performance. Despite facing initial hesitance and outright rejection from some quarters, her resilience and undeniable talent have won over many, turning erstwhile skeptics into allies. This transformation is a testament to her character, underscoring the importance of authenticity and perseverance in the face of adversity​​.

Zandara's role as the stunt coordinator for the CW's Nancy Drew series further showcases her versatility and creative vision. Her leadership on the set of Nancy Drew, a series praised for its commitment to diversity, reflects her broader goals of representation and safety within professional environments. Through her actions and achievements, Zandara Kennedy stands as a beacon of inspiration, not only for aspiring stunt drivers and drift racers but for anyone striving to make a mark in their chosen field while staying true to themselves​​.

As Zandara Kennedy continues to push boundaries and break new ground, her story serves as a powerful narrative of ambition, identity, and the relentless pursuit of one's passions. Her contributions to motorsport and stunt performance, coupled with her advocacy for diversity and inclusion, mark her as a formidable figure in the world of professional driving and beyond.