@camillapanda, 27 – FUNDED
She’s a variety streamer and she’ll try any game once, but @camillapanda’s favorites right now are No Man’s Sky, Magic the Gathering Arena, and all the RPGs! Outside of the gaming world, she loves volunteering for nonprofits and doing as much charity work as she can. The BroadcastHER Grant winner also adores chatting all things science, engineering, and art!
What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?
My dream is to create a space where everyone can be themselves and be empowered to make a positive change by doing what they enjoy.
How will the BroadcastHER Grant from the 1,000 Dreams Fund help you reach your goals?
I hope to use the tools I am getting from this grant to not only break barriers in broadcasting, but to inspire and uplift others to follow their dreams.
What does being the recipient of the BroadcastHER Grant mean to you?
It is an incredible thing. 1,000 Dreams Fund has helped so many amazing woman achieve so much; it is an honor to be one of them.
Women are underrepresented in gaming, broadcasting, and e-sports. What can we do to change this?
We can change that by not only welcoming underrepresented groups, but also by uplifting and advocating for those who are underrepresented so they can have equitable opportunities in the field.
What are some of the challenges you have faced along the way?
I, like many women, have been harassed in the space and made to feel unwelcome, and I have felt overwhelmed at times. In my experiences so far, I have encountered a stalking situation involving a local viewer. Navigating the process of holding them accountable for their actions has been stressful, and though extremely upsetting, it has made me all the more inspired to help create an equitable, safe, and inclusive space for broadcasters and community members alike.
Besides that, with six years of experience in marketing and web development, I’ve had workplace experiences that remind me of the need for parity. I’ve very frequently felt undervalued and unsupported in new ventures, and I have encountered a significant amount of challenges in trying to get programs off the ground simply because I’m doubted for who I am; not what I bring to the team.
What advice do you have for women who want to start broadcasting?
You are much more than any analytics on a website or any negative comment someone says.
How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?
Currently, the students I mentor on my robotics team along with my inspiring friends in STEM and broadcasting keep me motivated. My students and mentees will change the world, but I hope to lessen the work they will have to do while supporting some game-changing folks in gaming, broadcasting, and STEM.