Interview with Nigar Gurbanova, Volunteer of the Year at the 2023 Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, now working in the Media Department of Baku City Circuit, for AZERTAC.
– Let’s start from the beginning. What made you decide to volunteer for the Formula 1 races?
– I’ve been interested in Formula 1 for a long time, but I had never volunteered anywhere before. I thought it was a good opportunity to try myself and gain new experiences. So, I registered through the Baku City Circuit’s volunteer announcement. I successfully passed the selection stages and joined the media transport team.
– Do you have any memorable moments from your time as a volunteer?
– As you know, Baku City Circuit hosts various international events besides Formula 1. I have special memories tied to each event. One of the most interesting experiences was during the Rizin fight in Baku in 2023, when I entered the cage and translated for a fighter in front of thousands of people. It was an incredible moment and will always remain a fond memory.
– You were even selected as Volunteer of the Year once…
– Being chosen as Volunteer of the Year was a complete surprise. It’s a great honor to hold that title. Honestly, I didn’t even aim for it. It was unclear until the end who would be selected, but in 2023, I received the award, which helped me with my future steps.
– How did the transition to the Baku City Circuit’s media department happen? Did your volunteer work play a role?
– My first volunteering experience was in the media transport team. Later, I was invited to other events as well and started becoming more recognized. My work was highly appreciated. Just before last year’s Formula 1 race, I was invited as an office volunteer, and shortly before the Grand Prix, I received an offer to join the media department at Baku City Circuit.
– What is it like working with both local and foreign media representatives?
– It has been a great experience for me. I’ve always found working with journalists interesting. I’d even say the experience I gained as a volunteer was very helpful in this role.
– What is it like to work at an international event like Formula 1 in terms of responsibility and stress?
– Every event comes with its own responsibilities. As a volunteer, you have to work more swiftly with the media. Language skills are especially important here. It’s vital to communicate well with both locals and foreigners. I remember when I was in the media transport team, photographers would go to rooftops to take shots, sometimes not following the rules. We had to be patient and maintain good communication with everyone involved.
– What are your goals for the future in this field? Do you plan to work at any other international sports events besides Formula 1?
– Baku City Circuit and Formula 1 were a great learning ground for me. I also worked at the UFC event and the Mini Football World Cup held in Baku. In the future, I want to participate in events abroad as well. I already feel like a member of this field.
– What advice would you give to young people who want to volunteer at prestigious events?
– I always tell those around me that every young person should volunteer at least once in their life. My advice is not to be afraid and to believe in themselves. When you love what you do, everything turns out perfectly.
– How do you evaluate the significance of hosting Formula 1 races in Baku for our country?
– The Formula 1 Grand Prix is a brand. It has a major impact on our country’s image. From a volunteer perspective, it’s a valuable experience. I believe it’s a great opportunity, and everyone should appreciate it.
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