Ash (she/they) — @ashiirosee — is a bisexual, demi-femme variety content creator and streamer from Canada! The BroadcastHER Grant winner’s “Cozy Coven” content ranges from story-driven first playthroughs to cozy slice-of-life simulators.

What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?

My dream is to create a welcoming, inclusive space where folks can be themselves. I want to continue to foster a community that’s passionate about charity and lifting marginalized voices.

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

I will be able to get the necessary desk and stream upgrades that will streamline and elevate my content as well as create a space where I feel inspired.

What does being a recipient mean to you?

I am deeply honored. Having my work as a content creator recognized in this way has given me the confidence that I am on the right path and that I am making a positive impact on those around me. I feel very fortunate to be among so many incredible creators and broadcasters.

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

Everything that 1DF does is an incredible start, as there are often major financial barriers for marginalized folks within gaming, broadcasting, and e-sports! We need to make sure that we are creating equitable opportunities for women and other marginalized genders every chance we get within the gaming industry. We also need to hold companies accountable and make sure that marginalized folks feel empowered, supported, and protected within this industry.

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

Being a femme-presenting content creator comes with its own set of challenges, including trolling, having your opinions diminished, and being told that you have to act or speak a certain way or that being a content creator is “easy” because I’m perceived as a woman and look a certain way.

Some of my biggest hurdles, however, include a lot of self-doubt and imposter syndrome. I am my biggest critic and I’ve too often let fear get in the way of what I want. It has caused me to be very quiet about my goals, not apply for things because I didn’t feel “deserving,” or try to take *everything* on by myself. Finding community has been a struggle, but I’ve learned very quickly that you absolutely need a support system online and offline to be successful in this space. I would not be here, still streaming two years later, if it weren’t for my friends and community.

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

Just start! I know it feels daunting and that you might want to get the best equipment or do x, y, z before pressing “go live.” But I promise you, you can get started now. Things do not need to be perfect at this moment and you’ll eventually find your groove and go from there. You will find a community that supports you and wants you to reach your goals. You’ve got this!

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

It can be so hard to stay motivated and focused — especially with my neurodivergent brain. I’m learning to give myself the same amount of compassion and grace that I would extend to my peers. Understanding the ebbs and flows in the amount of focus I can dedicate to something has helped a lot! Meaning, if I have loads of energy, I use that time to get everything that I need to get done, done. That way, on the days where I have zero spoons, I don’t feel as overwhelmed by a towering to-do list and I can practice proper rest and self-care. I want to have balance as a content creator, and I can’t do that by running myself into the ground.