@Sunjxya loves the competitive element of gaming. But when she’s not streaming or competing, you’ll find her pursuing her motorsports engineering degree! Here’s how this BroadcastHER Grant winner balances it all.

What is your dream as a digital broadcaster?

I hope I will be able to bring entertainment to people who watch me every time I stream and connect with anyone I meet along the way.

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

It will fund a new monitor and a better graphics card — not only for my broadcasting aspirations, but also with my education!

What does being a recipient mean to you?

If I’m being honest, it’s one of the highlights of my year! Being a recipient has me ever so excited and this grant gives me a chance to enhance my gameplay while I stream as well as when I run engineering programs for university.

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

What I love about gaming is the competitive element. When I first entered CCSW e-sports for Rainbow Six Siege, I enjoyed it so much. It was my first-ever competitive experience and winning… oh boy, it felt so good and made me glad that this opportunity was there for me and all the girls who participated.

From then on, when I saw more and more Women’s Leagues created in e-sports, I saw that they showcased so many amazing girls who are so good at the game and they, in return, received the recognition they deserved. Having more of these spaces (women e-sports) really is special and normalizes us in the industry (as it should). Personally, it gave me a safe and comfortable environment to grow as a gamer, be confident as a player, and to also bond with other girls who have exactly the same passions.

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

In my gaming, broadcasting, and online experience, it has been tough from the very beginning. There is a lot of normalized misogyny and sexism that I have been through (like so many other girls) and will no doubt continue to go through in this industry — and in normal life. I try to not let challenges set me back from enjoying what I want to do in life.

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

I would say that having an engaging, connected network is important when broadcasting.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

Gratitude is very important!