Dash — @Dashmaker — is a casual Twitch streamer who plays a variety of games  — from Overwatch to Dead by Daylight, Animal Crossing, sports games, and more. This BroadcastHER Grant winner’s main goal is to create another cool community on Twitch — filled with plenty of laughs, rage quit moments, and heart-to-heart talks.

What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?

I want to create a more inclusive environment for queer women in esports. I want to be another face that people see as being queer and realize that there are more of us in the gaming industry.

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

I will be using the grant to replace parts on my PC. My PC has been having a lot of issues that have made streaming difficult. I will now have the required equipment to stream and put content out.

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

Receiving the grant means I get the chance to be in this field and stream alongside others. To be able to have my voice out in this industry means so much.

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

Listen and amplify their voices. Many of us have been very vocal on changes we would like to see in gaming. Tournaments shouldn’t have a maximum requirement to how many women can be allowed to compete. Games should have more diversity and take actions to those who abuse others in voice and text chats in games. We should continue to see women on the front of games, competitions, branding, and other esports aspects along with men.

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

I have faced many challenges, including online bullying, for being a queer woman. I have not been given opportunities or even considered an option in my past due to who I am. We should all be given an equal playing field.

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

Hit that “go live” button. The only way to get feedback is by putting content out there. Network with as many individuals that you share similar mindsets with at first and continue to broaden from there. If there is every anything you are passionate about, go for it.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

I have a huge passion for video games and I am very driven in making sure I continue to strive forward in this field. Being an “underdog” fuels me more.