As the co-owner of an esports organization, @lexilemonhead not only has a passion for her own gaming and content creation, but also in seeing other women find their voice and success in the industry. It’s something that fuels this inspiring BroadcastHER Academy winner, in spite of some of the obstacles she’s had to overcome.

What is your dream in esports and gaming?

I want to be a professional esports org owner, player, and content creator.

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?

Winning the BroadcastHER Academy challenge means a lot to me because it has given me a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I can further my own knowledge and career in the gaming industry as well as my own esports organization.

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

Women in the gaming community need a platform to spread awareness. Programs such as 1DF help women find their voice and role in gaming. I hope that I can be a role model for my younger sister and other girls who have a passion for gaming and esports.

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

I am inspired to make content that encourages women in the gaming scene — especially when I am surrounded by an amazing online community of women. I love logging onto Twitter every day and seeing women compete in a male-dominated industry. It takes me back to when I was younger and taken a lot less seriously in gaming. I am so proud of all the amazing women role models on social media.

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

As a woman in gaming and esports, it was difficult to get a start. When I expressed a love for gaming, my own family brushed me aside. It took a long time to feel confident about expressing my passions.

Starting an esports organization was another huge challenge. I was obviously taken less seriously than my male co-owner, which I expected — but it was still frustrating. Most business proposals were sent to him and most staff looked to him, as well. Being more assertive made me “rude,” but it was not the same for my male counterparts. Things are a lot better now, but it took a lot of work to get here.

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

I believe that if you have a love and passion for something, go for it! Find a community along the way. This is where you can share experiences and struggles — and it gives you a lot more confidence.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

A secret to staying focused on your goals is to never lose sight of your dreams. Work hard and dream big!