She once struggled with finding her voice, but in broadcasting and gaming, @AdmiralMurladriel discovered the perfect medium to express herself. In playing numerous characters, the BroadcastHER Grant winner ultimately found out who she was — and now she encourages others to do the same and embrace themselves for who they truly are.

What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?

I want to give other people the experience of learning more about themselves by broadcasting my games so that they can hear my stream of consciousness and see how comfortable I am with my quirks.

How will the BroadcastHER Grant from the 1,000 Dreams Fund help you reach your goals?

The BroadcastHER Grant allowed me to upgrade my hardware to a better streaming platform so that I can produce higher quality content and grow as a broadcaster. Now, I am able to have better graphics quality as well as reduced lag time so that I can chat and respond to my viewers in real time.

What does being the recipient of the BroadcastHER Grant mean to you?

Being a part of the 1,000 Dreams Fund community connects me to fellow female streamers to foster support for each other. Between social media and the discord channels, I have met amazing women from all walks of life. Hearing their stories encourages me.

Women are underrepresented in gaming, broadcasting, and e-sports. What can we do to change this?

Women are tired of constantly being evaluated by our appearance. However, broadcasting enables us to showcase our skills and personalities. Being a woman is just one piece of who I am. My streams illustrate my humor, quick wit, deep thoughts, strategy skills, and charisma. I just dress comfortably with minimal makeup when I stream because I want to show that there is more to people than just their appearance while empowering women to push past those social norms. We are a force to be reckoned with.

What are some of the challenges you have faced along the way?

My neurological problems prevent me from working most jobs. However, I refuse to let my medical condition and high medical bills dictate my life. I am supporting myself and my partner through college to enable me to help others not be held back by their disabilities. Some people treat me differently once they know my once-closeted sexual orientation.

What advice do you have for women who want to start broadcasting?

My advice for women starting broadcasting is that you don’t have to be the best player to have fun and grow a supportive community. It’s also important to know when to take the day off when you are just not feeling it.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

My dream is to be the most amazing person I can be. This means following all of my passions from gaming to science to cars to art. When I am feeling unmotivated, I remind myself that the journey itself is my dream. My research has already begun on finding treatment for neurological disorders. I have evoked emotion through my dancing and oboe music. My Twitch affiliation has already allowed me to reach people from across the country with my story. If I can make it this far, then I can keep on going!