Minecraft and mental health is what @Karianneee_ (she/they) is all about. But, you’ll also find “a little of this” and “a little of that” on this BroadcastHER Grant winner’s stream — all for the sake of “cozy fun.”

What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?

I want to make a difference with money raised for charity, and I want to make content that people are proud to consume.

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

I will be using my grant money to get a new chair to help with my bad back, and I will also be upgrading my lights at my setup.

What does being a recipient mean to you?

It’s honestly such an honor to be among other amazing winners who have done such positive things with their community.

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

I am excited to see where women get this year in gaming — and in the future. I think, at this point, we just need to keep speaking up and speaking out about equality.

It’s also important that we work together with our male counterparts to make sure they understand what it means for us to be an underrepresented group and how they can help us be equals.

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

As a gay, biracial woman, I’ve received hate raids several times while streaming on Twitch. I’ve been called a variety of slurs and have ended several streams feeling very low in mood and questioning if I should continue.

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

Be yourself! Don’t try too hard to fit in. There is a community out there for you to build and foster — and, if you start off being authentic, you will start to collect some of the best community members around. Also, don’t let the success of others stop you or bring you down. We’re all in this together.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals? 

I have a close group of friends who help keep me on the right path. I do have some mental health struggles that sometimes hold me back, but a good support system can help you make it through almost anything.