» Women’s esports are just as competitive as the men’s – the effort, determination and passion are the same «
HEAD IN THE GAME These competitions provide spaces for women gamers to thrive
The Sky Guild Gaming Centre is also a safe space for female gamers and allies to come and game. “During the summer, Lobby Live was another well-received initiative,” states Jones. “When the public-facing sim facility opens this February, in partnership with Drive Lounge, we’ll have female- only sessions with coaches. In terms of what more can be done, I’d really like to see publishers become more active in the female esports scene, as well as EWCF, generating more female-only competition.” There are many steps to achieving gender equality, but women’s esports are just as competitive as men’s. The effort, determination and passion are the same. “You typically get the same kinds of feelings and interactions from players,” says Lajal. “The more women that get involved in gaming, the more it will increase the overall competitiveness. Hopefully the next event will be even bigger. “First and foremost, we need to get more people interested and taking it seriously. For men, there are so many prominent figures in the industry and role models for them to look up to; there’s space to grow. In any case, female gaming is growing and these initiatives are further fuelling that, so I’m really hopeful for the future. The support I got through this experience was really positive. My partner, who also streams, is in racing as well, and his community
the women’s gaming industry a public platform for the first time. “By showcasing events like this, including professional players, you create representation,” concludes Bucciacchio. “You can inspire people to pursue their passions, regardless of gender. It’s important not just for representation, but for the sector to be taken seriously as well.” For Lajal, the broadcasting of the event made it feel all the more real, and gave the women’s gaming industry the respect it deserves. “Organising these events can bring wider attention to it and inspire more people to get involved,” she summarises. “There are more people like us out there who are interested in racing games, but who never really thought they could be competitive enough because they just haven’t had the platform for it. Seeing these opportunities pop up is such a huge deal for the community.” Lajal is optimistic about the future and excited to see where these initiatives around women’s esports lead. “A few new initiatives have already reached out with regards to creating bigger communities around women interested in esports and eracing. I’m really excited to see more of these pop up and I feel like there are more opportunities in this field. I’m hoping to spread that awareness and inspire more people – and more women – to get involved.”
TOP OF THE LEAGUE Mariam Musa, winner of the Guild Football Eseries
were super supportive during the live event. Since then, I’ve been getting so much recognition from people who are generally interested in motorsports. It’s been such a fun thing to do and it’s been great to get wider recognition. The Guild and Sky Broadband initiative definitely made a mark and raised awareness, so let’s see where it goes from here.” The new norm Normalising the presence of women in esports is essential to demonstrate for the next generation that gaming is a valid career option for everyone – regardless of gender. Broadcasting the Women’s Esports Finals gave
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