Dani, who goes by @EbonixSims on Twitch, is from London, England and she’s a creator of ethnic custom content for The Sims 4 — and a “proud melanated, coconut oil wearing, shea butter covered, sage burning gamer.” In addition to The Sims 4, the BroadcastHER Grant winner plays other games such as Overcooked 2, Dead by Daylight, Grand Theft Auto V, Overwatch, and the odd scary game.

What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?

My dream is to change the gaming industry and the gaming platform by bringing more diversity and representation for black and brown girls.

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

It will help me to level up my current streaming set up and help fund my Master’s in Computer Art: Game and Animation.

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

It really means the world to me that my dream has been seen by 1DF as one that is attainable and that they are willing to honor me with this grant.

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

Women need more opportunities to get into these areas and those who already are in the industry need more exposure. The more that women see other women in gaming, broadcasting, and e-sports, the more they will feel inspired and encouraged to get into it. Women also need to feel safe, as there is a vast amount of sexism and misogyny in the gaming and e-sports industry.

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

I have faced some racism whilst live streaming, but that did not phase me. I just ensured that I made my stream safer for my viewers. Another challenge I have faced is a medical condition that renders me unable to engage in day-to-day activities due to pain. But, I work in between episodes so that I am able to bring as much content to the community as I can.

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

Be yourself, and worry about what you are doing and not what anyone else is doing.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

My community who shows their appreciation for the content I make is what motivates me every day and keeps me inspired to reach my dreams of changing the gaming industry.