@heyaroo, 23 – FUNDED
It’s not hard to pick up on the enthusiasm that Hannah K. — @heyaroo — has for all things video games (and groovy music, too). Although this 1DF BroadcastHER Academy winner currently works as a freelancer for social media/community management, she wants to build towards her dream career of creating promo videos for games. As for her own personal favorite games, they include Breath of the Wild and The Beginner’s Guide. And, you’ll probably find her streaming Just Dance, Skyrim, Zelda, Dead By Daylight, or IRL on any given day.
What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?
My dream is to create a positive and fun environment where people can share their enthusiasm for games!
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?
The BroadcastHER grant will help me attend gaming conventions to network and learn more about the gaming industry. My dream career is to create promotional videos for games that will engage a community and bring in new players. I am currently a community manager for food and beverage clients, but I would like to switch to gaming clients to get closer to my dreams!
Women are underrepresented in gaming, broadcasting, and e-sports. What can we do to change this?
I think the job roles of many women in the gaming industry are not featured or showcased as much to the community. Creating a conversation by showing female executives in tech, e-sports, and gaming will encourage young women to know that they are part of a growing and awesome community!
What are you most inspired by when it comes to creating encouraging content for young women in gaming, broadcasting, and e-sports
I am inspired by women who are current executives in the gaming industry. For example, Jade Raymond, who is currently the VP of Google for Stadia, was one of the first female executives at Ubisoft and Electronic Arts. Highlighting women who are in the gaming business inspires other women to create and to be on a career track similar to them.
What are some of the challenges you have faced along the way?
Growing up, I was very self-conscious to be a female gamer “in real life” because there weren’t that many gamers around me. I found my home in online gaming communities and realized I was not alone! The gaming industry has drastically evolved to be more culturally accepted and one of the leading industries in the world.
What advice do you have for women who want to start broadcasting?
Stay focused on your goals and aspirations. People may tell you that it’s not worth the time, or that it is not “realistic.” But only you can make your path, and no one else! Don’t look at the follower count or viewer count; focus on your community and have fun with the process.
How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?
When I look back to my dreams throughout childhood, I saw a recurring pattern of wanting to create promotional videos for games. So, I know that I must go back to those roots and keep my dream alive. I also focus on mini goals and try not to get frustrated with too high of expectations. One step at a time will get me closer to my dreams.
