@camillapanda, 29 – Funded
You might see some cute cats on @camillapanda‘s stream — and she’ll tell you that there’s frequent “in-game chaos,” too. This JBL Quantum Grant is a “sci-fi/cozy streamer with a dash of horror” — and she’s an INFJ, if you’re familiar with the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator personalities. She’s also a commentator for competitive robotics — and occasionally for League of Legends and Valorant!
What is your dream in gaming and/or esports?
I want to help make esports a more welcoming place and inspire others to be themselves in this industry.
How will this award from the 1,000 Dreams Fund help you reach your goals?
This award will help support me while I am still looking for work in this industry with some of the funds going toward upgrading my camera so I can create better content/reel material.
What does being a 1,000 Dreams Fund – JBL Quantum Grant recipient mean to you?
Being a recipient winner means people in the industry believe in me and the other winners. It is truly an honor to be among so many incredible women who are making esports a better place for everyone.
Women are underrepresented in gaming and esports. What can we do to change this?
We can continue to provide funds and opportunities to underrepresented groups in gaming and esports along with making sure people see how diverse gaming and esports is — from on-camera to behind the scenes.
What are some of the challenges you have faced along the way?
I have struggled to find folks who take my dreams of casting in esports seriously. I’ve been casting for competitive robotics since 2015, but esports is very different and they do not have as many opportunities.
What advice do you have for women who want to work in the gaming or esports industry?
Put your mental health first. People are going to be mean and it is okay to walk away from those who are being toxic towards you — but do not quit. Don’t give up.
How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?
I mentor high-school kids in robotics and engineering. Many of them love playing games — and quite a few of my students have recently started to fall in love with gaming after seeing how open and “cool” I make gaming, according to them. From cozy non-competitive games, to Valorant and League of Legends, my students are more comfortable exploring their interests.