Shafiq Abidin’s Rebel Journey to Motoring Journalism
Some people dream of driving exotic cars. Others dream of writing about them. And then there’s Shafiq Abidin, who’s managed to land one of the coolest jobs, In The World – Top Gear staff writer. But the journey from a student interviewing me during Covid to being a year-in to one of the most coveted car jobs out there, has not been without challenges and disappointments. It almost never happened, but this young talent fought for his goals, pushing past cultural expectations, imposter syndrome, and countless rejections to make it happen. His story? It’s as inspiring as it is relatable.
During a Skoda press trip to drive the new updated 2025 Skoda Octavia vRS on the Isle of Man, we finally caught up in person, and I just had to take the opportunity to have a proper on-camera chat with Shafiq about his inspiring journey.
From Computer Science to Cars: A Rebel Move
Like many in our community, Shafiq was nudged towards a “sensible” career – computer science. But his heart wasn’t in it. Cue a bold move: ditching the tech books and swapping them for something far more exciting – journalism. His family of accountants and doctors weren’t entirely impressed with what seemed like a reckless decision, but Shafiq stuck to his guns, enrolling at City, University of London for his undergrad in journalism.
And then, a master’s in motoring journalism at Coventry University – one of the only places you can achieve such a qualification. Shafiq says it was life-changing. Graduates from this programme, like his editor at Top Gear Jack Rix and Alex Kersten (of AutoAlex), have gone on to do amazing things.
The Tough Road to Top Gear
Breaking into journalism isn’t easy. Getting a professional position as a car journalist is even harder! It’s a tough industry to crack, and for someone like Shafiq, it meant working twice as hard to prove himself. He spent a year interning and freelancing for various outlets, honing his skills and building his portfolio.
But the rejection letters piled up, and it was hard not to feel disheartened. At one point, he nearly gave up, considering a career switch to teaching. And then – as if scripted for a Bollywood movie, Top Gear called – cue the fast cuts, swinging camera angles, stunned expressions, followed by thunderous dhol-playing and a celebratory song and dance number! The rest, as they say, is history.
Life at Top Gear: Cars, Legends, and a Massive Stig Poster
Landing the job is one thing; living up to it is another. Shafiq admits he faced imposter syndrome when he started, surrounded by automotive legends whose work he’d admired for years. But he quickly proved he belonged.
In his first year, he’s driven some jaw-dropping cars, including an Nissan R34 GTR M-Spec Nür (imported from Bahrain, no less) and a first-gen Aston Martin DBS – the very one James Bond flipped in Casino Royale. And let’s not forget his laps around the Nürburgring in a Golf GTI.
Shafiq is still in awe and grateful for the opportunities he’s had, but he know’s he’s earned them, as someone told him, “You wouldn’t be at Top Gear if you didn’t deserve to be there.”
Breaking Barriers in Motoring Journalism
Beyond the cars and the glamour, Shafiq’s story carries a deeper message. Representation in the automotive industry is sorely lacking – whether it’s women, people of colour, or diverse voices in general. Shafiq and I both agree it’s time for change.
The good news? It’s happening. Slowly but surely, we’re seeing more diversity in the industry. Shafiq’s success isn’t just a win for him – it’s a beacon for others dreaming of breaking into this space.
Shafiq’s Top Tips for Aspiring Writers
If you’re eyeing a career in automotive journalism, here are Shafiq’s top tips:
- Work Hard: There’s no substitute for graft, especially if you’re from an underrepresented community. Be prepared to put in the hours.
- Be Obsessed: Live and breathe cars, the industry, and technology. Passion is what sets the best apart.
- Keep Notes: Always record your first impressions when driving a car, using an audio recorder ideally. It’ll help you write more authentic and engaging reviews.
- Believe in Yourself: Imposter syndrome is real, but don’t let it win. If you’re there, you’ve earned it.
Why You Should Watch the Video
Shafiq’s story is more than just a career journey – it’s proof that hard work, determination, and an ardent unshakeable passion for what you do can take you anywhere. Plus, we get into some cracking debates about old cars versus new ones, the future of EVs, and even the quirks of the Skoda Octavia VRS we were driving during the chat.
So, grab a cuppa, hit play on the video, and get inspired by someone who’s not just writing about cars but rewriting what the automotive journalism media-scape looks like.
Looking forward to your comments!
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