Having been involved in esports for over 12 years, I’ve seen with my own eyes how rapidly the industry has grown. Today, there are more tournaments and professional organisations around the world than ever before. More females are beginning to take an interest in gaming and esports, which as a woman myself, is something I’m very happy to see.
I always say that esports, which is competitive and professional gaming, is for everyone regardless of gender or nationality. The fact that females from different parts of the world, including the Middle East, are joining the community and getting hooked on gaming is proof of this.
It shows that we are going in the right direction in what is still a male-dominated industry, and it’s important to continue to encourage women to consider pursuing a career in esports as it’s a very exciting industry to work in.
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But before delving into *why* women in the Middle East should pursue a career in esports, it’s important to denounce the idea that working in this industry means ‘just playing games,’ or that it offers limited career opportunities to make a living. I can say confidently that this isn’t true, and it’s sad that some people still have these views.
Thanks to technology and the rise of investments, there’s no better time to enter the industry as there are more job roles now than when I first started my career. I say this because esports has become such a global phenomenon that it’s now a professional business. From hundreds of professional organisations, and thousands of professional athletes training every day to packed stadiums and millions of online fans worldwide, this is an industry to take seriously.
An esports organisation is the same as running a professional football club because there are a lot of competitions and huge prize money (millions of dollars) to play for. Everyone is eager to succeed.
Former female professional Counter-Strike player Vladyslava Zakhliebina is now the team manager for OG Esports.
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For example, a team roster can include roles such as a manager (which I currently am), a coach, an analyst, a mentor, or a psychologist. Beyond that, there are content creators and publishers, social media and content managers, marketing executives, etc. These are just a few but it’s a list that varies accordingly to each team and organisation.
Women should also not have the mindset that if they want to pursue a career in this field they have to be a player. It all depends on your skill set and experience, similar to any other career.
More importantly, don’t be afraid to enter esports as a profession. Unless you have tried esports for yourself, you won’t know if you like it or not. If someone says you’re not good enough or esports isn’t the right choice, prove them wrong and learn as much as you can.
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In my case, it would have been difficult to achieve so much if it wasn’t for my family who understood how much I loved gaming and esports. The main advice I give to everyone is that it’s vital for parents to show their support and take an interest. It can give a lot of confidence to their children.
Whatever role a female takes in esports, it can go a long way in inspiring more women to follow in your footsteps. Be it playing professionally, or being behind the scenes, your participation makes a difference.
There’s no better tournament to understand more and experience what esports is about than attending the BLAST Premier World Final in Abu Dhabi on the 17th and 18th of December, which I’ll be part of (!!)
Remember, you just need to believe in yourself and go for it. I can guarantee that it’ll be a memorable and enjoyable journey for sure.