@HarleighQuynn, 28 – FUNDED
DeShawn M., a.k.a. @HarleighQuynn, has big dreams of being an e-sports personality and supporting diversity in gaming. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, the 1DF BroadcastHER Academy winner is primarily a Dead by Daylight streamer. But, she also plays Overwatch and a mix of other games. Check out her interview and learn what keeps her motivated — plus, the encouraging advice she has to offer other women with broadcasting and gaming dreams.
What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?
My dream is to be an e-sports on-air personality. I want to be a host/caster for major e-sports and gaming events.
What does being the BroadcastHER Academy winner, which includes a $1,000 grant and all-expense-paid visit to the HyperX Esports Arena to shadow, mean to you and how will it help you reach your goals?
Being a recipient means that my dreams are valid. It means that someone else believes in me. It took me a while to finally find my dream career and receiving this grant means that I am one step closer to changing the gaming/e-sports industry.
Women are underrepresented in gaming, broadcasting, and e-sports. What can we do to change this?
We can change this by representing women and diversity and also by challenging the status quo. There are so many talented women gamers who haven’t received a chance. All the industry needs is one team or organization to take the initiative and start diversifying the arenas.
What are you most inspired by when it comes to creating encouraging content for young women in gaming, broadcasting, and e-sports
The idea that a little brown girl will see me on television playing the games that she loves and being in the spotlight is what inspires me. I want to be that beacon of hope for all women — especially women of color.
What are some of the challenges you have faced along the way?
My major challenge is not being able to network and interact within the gaming scene. I haven’t had the chance to go to a lot of conventions or e-sports arenas to meet people.
What advice do you have for women who want to start broadcasting?
My biggest advice is to be your own cheerleader and have fun. There will be times when it seems like you aren’t progressing or that no one believes in you. Those are the most crucial times to believe in yourself. Encourage your own progress and others will come. Also, always have fun. If you do not enjoy what you are doing, then you will never love where you are.
How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?
I stay motivated by making sure I am enjoying what I’m doing. If I ever feel like I dislike it, then I reach for ways to improve. So, I’m also evolving and adapting in the process.
