You’ll find Lynzie — @Lynzor on Twitch — playing FPS games like Fortnite, VALORANT, and Halo. And, although this JBL Quantum Grant winner is relatively new to streaming, she has big dreams ahead!

What is your dream in gaming and/or esports? 

My dream in gaming and esports is to work with top-tier organizations managing their teams or helping plan major events and executing projects.

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

It will help me reach my goals by relieving the burden of paying for my university housing as well as other related education costs like books and food.

What does being a 1,000 Dreams Fund – JBL Quantum Grant recipient mean to you? 

It means that others see my potential and want to help propel me toward my dreams.

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

We need to acknowledge the issues many women face in this space, but also inform those hesitant to join the space that they are not alone. There are women here who are looking to uplift and help guide others.

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

My challenges have mostly been focused around imposter syndrome and feeling inadequate. Social media is a highlight reel for many people, so it can be tough seeing others succeeding in their careers while I don’t feel like I’m at the same point. It also is tough when I experience success because I often feel like I don’t deserve it.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the gaming or esports industry? 

Build a community around you with people you trust and who want to see you succeed. Having people to lean on is important when things get tough. On the flip side, also take constructive criticism and apply it to what you are working on. The feedback you’re given is meant to help you grow, so it’s important not to overlook it.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals? 

Sometimes it’s hard to stay motivated and focused on my goals, especially in the current times. Some of the ways I make sure to push myself include writing lists and keeping a planner. Seeing both the steps I need to take to reach a goal and the deadlines helps me frame the work I need to do.