Emma “Emzii” Rose began her foray into gaming at just 13 years old when she was invited to play with a group of other young enthusiasts. For her, it was the start of her remarkable journey into the world of eSports. 18 years on, Emma has evolved into a notable personality within the eSports community.
Upon her entry into a somewhat desolate gaming center where she met a set of new faces, Emma was introduced to the sphere of competitive online gaming. This experience laid the foundation for her career as a transgender eSports player who later transitioned into broadcasting. Representing Team GB at the European Games and clinching victory at the Commonwealth eSports Championships are among her impressive feats.
Apart from boasting extraordinary gaming abilities, Emma has also leveraged her influence to advocate for diversity and inclusivity in the gaming universe. She has made strides in challenging the conventional notions that the industry is primarily run by cisgender, heterosexual males.
During Emma’s early years, she was engrossed in renowned competitive games such as Counter-Strike, Call of Duty, and League of Legends. She’d often coordinate mini-tournaments among her friends, further honing her abilities and standing out among the pack.
A native of Coleraine, Emma’s gaming prowess did not go unnoticed. She began partaking in inter-city tournaments in Northern Ireland and England, gradually becoming a recognizable figure in the eSports landscape. It wasn’t until the COVID-19 outbreak, where circumstances got real for Emma.
Before the onset of the 2020 lockdown, Emma transitioned into streaming, generating gaming content. Amidst immersing herself in the gaming universe and planning her wedding, she grappled with dysphoria; a struggle that eventually led to her acknowledging her identity as a transgender woman.
For Emma, coming out equated to a relationship dissolution and hiatus from eSports streaming. However, she soon found solace in a group of female gamers from Northern Ireland, an experience she describes as a storybook moment. With the newfound support, Emma decided to advocate for eSports in Northern Ireland, driven by her passion for football and the potential to establish a transgender presence within the sector.
Emma initially had difficulties with the Pro Evolution Soccer series but relentless perseverance and rigorous training under her coach’s guidance led to mastering the game and eventually clinching the eSports Commonwealth Games final against Wales.
Since then, Emma’s trajectory has been on an incline. Representing Team GB at the European Games was a thrilling experience, which she shares on her YouTube channel. The chance to interact with other transgender participants made the event more memorable for her.
Beyond her gaming exploits, Emma propagates the notion of diversity and representation in eSports. While female eSports leagues are occasionally deemed as secondary entertainment, Emma asserts that gaming is universal. She is determined to dismantle the boundaries in the sector and encourages underrepresented groups to engage in eSports.
Emma has made her voice be heard at various panels throughout the UK, instilling the message of inclusivity at gaming festivals and eSports occasions. Her presence as an LGBTQ+ gamer is pivotal to the ongoing evolution of the eSports industry.
Despite encountering criticism and scrutiny, Emma remains resolute in her quest for transformation, and aims to establish a more inclusive and inviting atmosphere within eSports. Through her unique skillset, enthusiasm, and advocacy, Emma “Emzii” Rose is shaping a more diversified future in gaming.