@Ko_Ari a.k.a. Corey the Duck finds her true joy in gaming, concepting characters, and creating tales. And this BroadcastHER Grant winner loves sharing that joy with anyone who comes by her community stream which she calls “the Pond.”

What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?

I want to create video games!

I’d like to work as a character/story concept artist, producer, or operations manager on a video game. I’ve had the opportunity to test and review games through broadcasting. I now have a much better understanding of the motivations behind the various video game genres and sub-genres.

Since I first realized that video games were my calling in elementary school, I believe that my goal will still come true as long as I have the opportunity to create content and share my passion for video games.

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

I’ll be enhancing my streams, putting money away for college, going to conventions, and investing in GirlsGotaGame to help women compete in esports competitions. By enhancing my stream, I can provide better production quality for both my own stream and the events at GirlsGotaGame.

What does being a recipient mean to you?

Knowing that I am a recipient means the world to me since I have been working hard to develop as a broadcaster and artist so that I can produce engaging content for my community. I’m honored to have been selected because it has fueled my drive. Knowing that the 1DF community is behind me makes me feel like I can succeed at anything!

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

What is most important is developing trust within the community of women and giving them the assurance that their voice is heard with action.

Also, we need to keep encouraging our ladies by offering them opportunities. It’s crucial for women to watch activities held by other women and be provided with resources they need to represent themselves.

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

I had trouble making my ideas become reality since the male-dominated e-sports sector continued to view me as a trophy selection for a diversity role rather than for my content.

I don’t believe the effort I put in was really appreciated. It put me in a bad spot, and I battled a lot with depression as well as anxiety.

Despite trying to work around the system and change schools as a result, I was ultimately compelled to take a break from school due to my financial situation and mental instability. It’s not my proudest moment but I have since worked on myself and my content. I am so happy I chose a path where I can help other women in the gaming community with opportunities I did not get to see!

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

Just get started! Don’t get caught up in the notion that you must be at the top; and don’t ever stop trying to improve yourself. Don’t be afraid! Don’t be frightened to talk to yourself or to receive criticism.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

I stay motivated by believing in what I love doing, which is gaming! If I were doing something else, I would not be as happy. I stay focused by seeing that what I’ve been doing is working — while knowing that I always have room to improve.