@KallistaKaines is a variety/retro streamer, fanfic writer, lore junkie, blogger, and a beginner cosplayer. If you’re wondering about this BroadcastHER Academy winner’s Twitch handle, Kallista Kaines is actually an Overwatch character she created in July 2016.

What is your dream in esports and gaming?

I want to be a writer for a gaming company!

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 funds will go towards classes — and shadowing is a rare opportunity to see behind the scenes and get hands-on training, so I’m excited about that, too!

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

We must promote having more women in these spaces. There are tons of diverse women out there who are looking to get into the field.

What are you most inspired by when it comes to creating encouraging content for young women in gaming, broadcasting, and esports?

The fact that there are women out there who are looking to see others like them in this field or making content they can relate to… that’s inspiring to me.

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

Lack of representation and no direction coupled with a lack of educational opportunities… I had to figure out everything myself.

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

Reach out to your peers, research, and start!

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

I remind myself why I’m doing this, who am I doing this for, and how long I’ve been streaming and how much I’ve grown and all the people I’ve met by streaming.