“I’m a variety broadcaster and I like big sweaters, puns, inclusivity, and freshly baked bread,” says @DelTheLemon who lives in Nova Scotia. This BroadcastHER Grant winner is asexual, pan, and non-binary, and is passionate about working hard so that new streamers don’t have to feel lonely and can come together and ask for support.

What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?

My dream is to empower and uplift others through thoughtful and compassionate conversation.

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

It will help me with ergonomic upgrades to manage chronic pain while allowing me to spend more time in online communities making connections. Also, audio hardware upgrades will make co-streams and community nights more doable.

What does being a recipient mean to you?

It means recognition for all the hard work I’ve put into streaming. It means my dreams are being recognized and supported, and it means more femme creators can be encouraged to be in a space that is so often seen as traditionally male. It means breaking down those barriers, connecting with other non-men, and celebrating who we are. This grant reminds me that I belong in this space.

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

Keep showing up… showing up for each other, showing up in these spaces, and making it clear that we are not leaving. We need to take care of each other along the way because we are stronger when we come together. Communities like 1DF give us a place to come together, share resources, and take care of each other.

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

I have faced challenges with being a femme-identifying person in male-dominated spaces and with being unapologetically loud and queer. I live with social anxiety, depression, and chronic pain, and I’ve had to find ways to work with the unique challenges that those present.

Being a streamer with social anxiety and introverted tendencies made the beginning of the journey lonely, but I am so grateful that I managed to meet others through vulnerability and putting myself out there.

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

Just start. You don’t need expensive equipment or the perfect timing; just start with what you have and begin meeting and connecting with other communities. Just starting is the most important part of your streaming journey, and everything else will come with time. Experiment with everything and have fun.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

I stay focused by connecting with others. I love talking and sharing ideas and dreams with others and cheering everyone on, every step of the way. You can learn something from every person you meet, and when you share your passions with others, you can help each other reach those dreams.