1DF Announces Return of BroadcastHER Academy

1000 Dreams Fund (1DF), a national nonprofit that supports the dreams of talented young women in need with scholarships, mentorship, and other critical resources, has announced the return of the BroadcastHER Academy (#BroadcastHERAcademy), an esports and gaming fellowship program for women interested in pursuing careers in the esports industry – whether in-front or behind the camera.

Those who are interested can apply to the BroadcastHER Academy Challenge on https://1000dreamsfund.org/broadcasther-academy-challenge-2022/.

While women are driving big gains in esports viewership, women pro gamers earn millions less than their male counterparts with only few holding a salaried position on esports teams, according to esportsearnings.com. Women content creators additionally face a substantial pay gap.

“First and foremost, the BroadcastHER Academy Fellowship Program is intended to build a diverse talent pool for our partners and the industry while providing our participants with unparalleled access to hands-on training that can lead to employment opportunities at the end of the fellowship. We are also thrilled to be able to connect our Fellows with our incredible partners and their teams to help expand their professional networks,” Christie Garton, Founder and CEO of 1000 Dreams Fund, said.

Partners include premier esports entertainment company Allied Esports and HyperX, the gaming division of HP, and leader in gaming products. Both partners have sponsored the fellowship program since its launch in 2019, helping fuel the dreams of over 30 women in esports.

“Career programs focused on inclusivity are essential, and the BroadcastHER Academy continues to set the standard for creating opportunities for young women in our growing industry. Allied Esports is extremely proud to partner with 1000 Dreams Fund to help mentor and showcase these young women who have the talent and drive to be future leaders in broadcasting and gaming,” Jud Hannigan, CEO of Allied Esports, said.

New to the program this year, BroadcastHER Academy Fellows will have access to a special mentorship panel opportunity with Aerial Powers, HyperX Brand Ambassador and a professional basketball player for the Minnesota Lynx as part of the Women’s National Basketball Association, previously playing for Michigan State University in college. Aerial has accelerated her love for gaming and content creation through her Twitch streams, YouTube Channel, and position as Chair of Diversity & Inclusion at Team Liquid.

“HyperX is excited to bring these young women closer to realizing their dreams and ensure that they have a fair chance at economic and job opportunities within the broadcast and gaming industry. Through our multi-year support of 1000 Dreams Fund BroadcastHER Academy, we’ve interacted with the many talented Fellows and have seen how the program has served as an accelerator for careers in gaming for young ethnic women. HyperX is committed to ensuring that women have a seat at the table as they are underrepresented especially in the gaming industry,” said Wendy Lecot, head of strategic alliances, HyperX.

Ten women will be announced to the fellowship program for one year. Applicants will be selected based on the quality of their application which includes a proposed plan for what they hope to accomplish by the end of the program.