Guild Esports, a London-based organisation with ties to David Beckham, has revealed a first-of-its-kind initiative known as Women in Gaming. At the heart of this initiative sits a unique tournament series aimed at bringing more women into the professional gaming scene. According to research, 47% of all gamers in the United Kingdom are women, but they make up just 5% of esports competitors.
From April 26, Guild (backed by Sky Broadband as a lead sponsor) will host a triple-header of a series. It roars into action with the ‘Racers eSeries’ that runs from April 26 to May 19, taking advantage of Guild’s recent investment into sim racing. Following that, a Soccer eSeries kicks off, using EA FC as a competitive platform. Finally, the Womens Esports Finals will take place, being held at Sky’s HQ.
Diversity Evolved
Image Credit: Guild Esports
Guild Esports has long been a backer of increasing diversity in the esports scene. The organisation has promoted several campaigns historically that have propelled female and minority gamers to the forefront of the scene, as well as shedding light on the need for deeper LGBTQ representation in the industry. This latest initiative is a landmark moment in the organisation’s history, and it’s a lucrative one at that.
It was revealed that a £50,000 prize pool will be made available for the event. Not only that but the ultimate victors following the Womens Esports Finals will receive a professional contract – which is a rare prize in the competitive gaming space.
Guild (and Sky Broadband) revealed that the opening series – the Racers eSeries – will be open to any women over the age of 18. There will be three qualifying weekends, with the first taking place in Birmingham between the 26th and 28th of April. Further qualifying stages will be revealed later in the year.
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