The Genesis of a Passion: Rhoda’s Early Years
Rhoda Bueno Andrada’s journey into the world of high-performance cars began long before she co-founded FemPowered.
Growing up in Hawaii, Rhoda was surrounded by a family that appreciated fine engineering and the thrill of speed.
Her competitive nature, fostered in her career as a video game industry executive, naturally extended to her love for fast cars. This passion led her to Porsche, a brand synonymous with performance, precision, and prestige.
The Allure of the Porsche 911 GT3
Rhoda’s choice of the Porsche 911 GT3 (type 992) was no accident. The GT3, with its track-focused design, perfectly suited her desire for a car that could perform both on the road and the racetrack.
The Ruby Star color, inspired by a 964 RS she saw in the early 1990s, was a bold choice that reflected her vibrant personality and deep connection to the brand.
Why the 911 GT3 Stands Out
The Porsche 911 GT3 is renowned for its exceptional performance, characterized by its naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine, delivering 502 horsepower.
This powerhouse allows the GT3 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds. Its precision engineering includes a sophisticated suspension system and advanced aerodynamics, featuring a prominent rear wing for optimal downforce.
FemPowered: A Community for Women Enthusiasts
The Inception of FemPowered
In 2019, recognizing the lack of female representation in track driving, Rhoda co-founded FemPowered. This grassroots organization is dedicated to empowering women who share a passion for driving, whether on the track or the road.
The community offers support through weekend drives, social events, tech talks, and track days, creating a space where women can bond over their shared interests and encourage one another.
Breaking Stereotypes
FemPowered challenges the outdated notion that fast cars are not for women.
Rhoda’s leadership and the community’s activities have created a supportive environment where women feel confident pursuing their passion for high-performance driving.
The organization not only includes women but also men who support this cause, fostering a diverse and inclusive community.
The Power of Social Media: Rhoda’s Instagram Journey
Connecting with Enthusiasts
Rhoda’s Instagram channel has become a vital platform for connecting with other car enthusiasts. She shares her journey as a Porsche owner, showcasing the beauty and performance of her 911 GT3.
Her posts document everything from track days to weekend drives, providing an authentic glimpse into her life and passion.
Authenticity and Engagement
What sets Rhoda apart on social media is her authenticity. She shares her real experiences, from beginner track days to posting lap times at iconic tracks like Laguna Seca and Sonoma.
Her followers appreciate the genuine and unfiltered look into her journey, fostering a loyal and engaged community.
The Thrill of the Track: Rhoda’s Racing Experience
A Shared Passion
Rhoda’s husband shares her passion for Porsche, and together they have a “his & hers GT car” setup. While Rhoda drives her 911 GT3, her husband owns a GT4 RS in Fjord Green.
This shared interest has deepened their bond and enhanced their track experiences, often driving together at various racetracks.
The Adrenaline Rush
For Rhoda, track driving is more than a hobby; it’s an adrenaline-fueled escape. She participates in over 20 track days a year, relishing the precision and performance of her GT3.
The car’s handling, responsiveness, and the sense of being “glued to the track” provide an exhilarating experience that she eagerly shares with her social media followers.
Customizing the 911 GT3 for Performance
Track Optimizations
To optimize her 911 GT3 for the track, Rhoda has made several modifications. These include installing a roll cage and harnesses, adjusting the car’s alignment for better cornering, and using stickier tires for enhanced grip.
These enhancements ensure that her GT3 performs at its best on the racetrack.
Daily Driving and Track Days
Despite these modifications, Rhoda’s GT3 remains her daily driver. She believes that Porsche cars are meant to be driven and enjoys the dual-purpose nature of her vehicle.
Whether she’s commuting or pushing the limits on the track, her GT3 delivers an unmatched driving experience.
Building a Diverse and Supportive Community
The Importance of Community
For Rhoda, the Porsche community is more than just a group of car enthusiasts; it’s a diverse and inclusive family.
Over the years, she and her husband have made numerous friends within the community, appreciating the shared passion and camaraderie that transcend cultures and regions.
Supporting Women in Motorsport
Rhoda’s efforts with FemPowered have significantly impacted the visibility and participation of women in motorsport.
By creating a supportive environment, she has encouraged many women to pursue their passion for driving and track days, breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes.
The Future of FemPowered and Rhoda’s Journey
Expanding the Community
Looking ahead, Rhoda aims to expand FemPowered, reaching more women who share a passion for high-performance driving.
She envisions a future where the community continues to grow, providing support, education, and inspiration to female car enthusiasts across the country.
Personal Goals
Rhoda’s personal goals include continuing her journey as a track driver, constantly improving her skills and sharing her experiences. She remains committed to authenticity and engagement, ensuring that her social media presence continues to inspire and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
Conclusion: Rhoda Bueno Andrada’s Lasting Impact
Rhoda Bueno Andrada’s journey from a competitive video game industry executive to a leading figure in the Porsche driving community is a testament to her passion and dedication.
Through her work with FemPowered, she has created a supportive and inclusive environment for women in motorsport, challenging stereotypes and inspiring others.
Her story is a powerful example of how one person’s passion can drive significant change and build a vibrant, engaged community.
Rhoda’s love for her Porsche 911 GT3 and her commitment to the Porsche community continue to inspire and empower women across northern California and beyond.
Her journey is far from over, and her impact on the world of high-performance driving is set to grow even further.
