@GhostHostLauren originally started streaming to get through her massive Steam/Epic library but, in the process, built an amazing support community — and that’s what keeps her motivated. The BroadcastHER Grant winner advocates for mental health and is a variety streamer, so you’ll always see her playing something different.

What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?

I want to continue to bring accessibility awareness to the gaming/broadcasting community while cultivating a safe and inclusive space for marginalized creators.

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

It will help me bring better quality to my content — and bring more longevity to my streams.

What does being a recipient mean to you?

Many of my friends applied for this grant, and the fact that I was chosen means the WORLD. As a queer/woman/indigenous creator, having that representation means so much and knowing that 1DF believes in me fires my passion even more.

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

Continue to be LOUD in all aspects — misogyny, accessibility, inclusiveness. The louder we are, the more people will take notice and see that we have a place in the gaming community.

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

Plenty of times people have come into my chat while I’m “live” to tell me that I’m “good at games for a girl.” We need to continue to normalize that women not only play video games, but DEVELOP, WRITE AND PRODUCE them, as well.

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

Do not be afraid to be your most authentic self and have a trusted group of moderators to have your back should you get hate raided — whether you’re a woman/femme presenting, queer, or a PoC. Protect yourself and your mental health.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

I keep what I’ve built in mind with my community and continue to set smaller goals for myself that I know I can crush.