Variety streamer MaterialGirlB is a full-time educator by day. But, what she also loves is bringing her experiences to stream and educating on various topics through games and digital content. Her affinity for story- and decision-based games offers plenty to talk about, too!

A self-described “nerd” and “ultra-feminine gal,” this BroadcastHER Academy winner’s passion is to increase hyper-feminine representation in male-dominated spaces (gaming, tech, manga, comics, anime) as well as increase the visibility of hyper-femme black womxn across media — with diversity and inclusion at the core. “I’m interested in cultivating safe spaces where all are included and feel at home!” she says.

What is your dream in esports and gaming?

I hope to accomplish so much in both esports and gaming. When I’m not cultivating a strong community of #JewelThieves while streaming, creating content, and working towards becoming a pillar in the gaming industry, I want to serve as a caster, producer, and community manager in esports. Additionally, becoming on-air talent and a host for a show all about pop culture and gaming has been a dream of mine my entire life.

At the heart of it all, I want to increase the representation of Black hyper-femme womxn in both industries. My goal is to dismantle the idea that some women are just “too girly to game” and create space for us to be taken seriously.

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?

I’ve always been intimidated by the idea of getting involved in esports. While it has always been a great interest of mine, I always thought it was reserved for those who have been playing a specific game their entire lives and really homed in on the craft. I didn’t think there would be any space for me to learn, grow, and really break into the industry.

Also, not seeing many people who look like myself represented in esports was also a deterrent. Being selected as a BroadcastHER Academy Fellow means I can FINALLY obtain the tools and resources necessary to break into esports to follow my dreams.

Also, finally being able to have the funds to upgrade my stream means everything to me since I’m working to become a notable streamer and content creator in the industry. Becoming a BroadcastHER Academy Fellow means the ultimate boost in a career that I’ve yearned for since I was a little girl!

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

We can work to create opportunities and increase visibility. Because the industry does not necessarily “give” us space, we have to simply just TAKE up space and be unapologetic about it.

Providing women and femmes with resources to pursue their dreams in gaming and esports is essential and creating a strong community behind them, who will champion them as they continue their journeys in this space, will make all the difference.

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

I am inspired by the organizations who work to champion women and femmes in gaming, broadcasting, and esports as well as the women and femmes who create their own gaming and esports content.

Seeing everyone do the good work for a common cause inspires me to do the same. While my focus is on diversity and inclusion for all individuals, hyper-femininity is at my core. There is a very small population of individuals who cater their gaming and esports content to hyper-femme individuals, but I know there are people who NEED that type of content. How? Because I’m one of them! Knowing that I’m making encouraging content for those who need it keeps me going every day.

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

Misogynoir. Being told I’m not a real gamer, being harassed in video games because I am a woman, being targeted on stream because of my tags, and so many other instances where I’ve been attacked simply for existing as a Black woman.

While these experiences are unfortunate, I numb myself because I know these are occurrences that are going to continuously happen, sadly. That’s why it’s so important for me to create a safe space for marginalized groups to try and shield them as much a possible from these situations.

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

The best advice is to just start — and take advantage of every single opportunity that comes your way. Life is too short to be shy and give into your imposter syndrome. While these are very real and valid feelings to have, you are limiting yourself if you give into them.

Understand, that while it may be scary, what’s scarier is living a life unfulfilled. Take your time, learn the ropes, connect with others *genuinely,* and focus on having fun!

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

I stay motivated by having a community who holds me accountable and knowing that I have so many HUGE goals. It’s essential to use every day to tackle them.

I deeply believe that I’m the captain of my own ship and it doesn’t move without me. If I’m not doing the work to get to where I want to be or become the person I aspire to be, then it will never happen. My fate lies solely on me, and I use this as motivation to keep myself pushing and showing up when sometimes I don’t have the energy to. I know it will pay off in the end.