The biggest theme of @itsrubierose’s stream is this: Come As You Are! This BroadcastHER Grant winner and variety streamer (she plays all kinds of games and does art streams, too!) knows what it’s like to feel out of place, as she struggles with depression and borderline personality disorder. So, she is very intentional about creating a judgment-free zone.

What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?

I want to make Partner on Twitch and use my platform to help others like me who struggle with mental illness.

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

It will help me upgrade my streaming equipment, so I will be able to stream the way I truly want and game better. My current laptop blows up when I try to play a big game!

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

It means that you believe in me. It means that I have found a group of women and dreamers who want to support one another. I’ve been searching for a place like this and I’m more than grateful to have found it here.

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

We need to be more open to women who stream or game professionally. Also, I believe that we need to defend women in these spaces by just being there and cheering them on.

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

I have faced two corners of the patriarchy — racism and sexism. If it’s not viewers pointing out my Black features or how different I look, then it’s viewers explaining to me how to play a game I know very well. At times, it is the people closest to me who have hurt me. It has made me feel like I should quit, but I refuse to allow them to win.

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

Ask for help when needed, but remember the viewers came to see YOU. Be true to yourself; don’t focus on the numbers. The more you have fun with the broadcasting, the more views will come in.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

My daughter! She is 13 and looks up to me. I may not succeed at all my goals, but I have to remain focused and motivated to show her that whatever it is you want in this world, it is yours for the taking. You just have to keep trying until you reach it.