Just call Keda — @kedapalooza — your Camp Director. This BroadcastHER Grant recipient and variety streamer holds court at her Camp Kedapalooza where it’s “chill, a little wild, and a whole lot of fun… away from the troubles of the world.” She also rocks her love for wigs, pastels, black lipstick, and “anything cute.” You’ll probably see her streaming games like The Sims 4, Among Us, Animal Crossing, and various indies.

What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?

My dream is to inspire others to find love and kindness within themselves, for themselves.

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

This award will help my streams and content feel cleaner and stand the test of time as tech constantly evolves.

What does being a recipient mean to you?

It means the world to me. It’s a huge honor to receive a grant that has a purpose to uplift marginalized voices in the gaming space. As someone who is up-and-coming in this industry, it’s incredibly helpful and empowering to get this boost in my career that will help me create fun, engaging content.

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

We can start by providing equitable opportunities for women and marginalized identities. The problem is so deeply engrained in the gaming industry that we need to make sure that we’re taking the lead and the reigns when it comes to representation, competitions, and mentorship.

We’re here, and we’re killing it in all aspects, but the change needs to start from within. Don’t just see and acknowledge us, put us in. We’ve proven to you time and again what we can do; now let us show the world.

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

A lot of my challenges have been internal. I’ve held myself back and made myself smaller because I’ve seen how women and non-men are treated in our spaces. It doesn’t just stop at gender identity, either. Race and body diversity, though it’s not often talked about, also play huge roles in the way people are viewed and, ultimately, how I view myself.

As I surround myself with empowering peers in the community, I push myself further every day. Streaming has challenged me in some of the best ways, making me comfortable with being uncomfortable and growing into myself.

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

Go for it. There may be a lot of doubts that cloud your mind, but broadcasting can be such a freeing way to get in touch with yourself and a community that inspires you and pushes you further than you ever thought you could yourself.

There is space for everyone on whatever platform you choose, and there is only one you. No matter the content you want to create or the games you want to play, get after it. The platform is waiting for a voice and personality like yours.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

My mantra is “be the person I needed as a child.” I needed someone fun, creative, brave, and willing to stand up for themselves and those around them. I like to think that I am younger Keda’s wildest dream, and I strive to make sure that inner child is smiling as much as she can at all times.