@NihaNovacaine describes herself as “just a girl who’s into spooky stuff, dark fashion, video games, and all things nerdy.” The BroadcastHER Student Scholarship winner is also driven to prove the naysayers wrong — and she’s done just that.

What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?

I want to create cosplay on stream and empower other women to chase their dreams.

How will the BroadcastHER Student Scholarship from the 1,000 Dreams Fund help you reach your goals?

As a university student, I’ve had very little money to spare to improve the quality of my stream and upgrade my gear. I need a second monitor, new mouse and a camera! So, this scholarship will greatly help with these things.

What does being the recipient of the BroadcastHER Student Scholarship mean to you?

It means that I’ve been given a voice, a chance, and a stage to represent girls and women who endeavor to achieve their dreams.

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

Women really are underrepresented! In fact, more game and story plots focus on you as if you’re a male player. It’s disheartening. I think that quotas might help represent women on an esports level. There should be a girl on every team, for example.

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

Most of the time I’ve been told to underachieve because I’m a girl; that I can’t play games as well as boys. I’ve also been told I would never be successful in college. It has been a pleasure proving them wrong.

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

Peruse forums and educate yourself. Find safe spaces for women and ask questions so that the path ahead is clearer. Everyone should have a chance at broadcasting.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

I just keep thinking that I must prove my worth to the many who lack the podium to voice their opinions and chase their dreams.