McDonald’s, Gen.G, Cxmmunity Announce HBCU NetWORK Gaming Conference
Local McDonald’s franchises of the DMV region, and gaming behemoth Gen.G have partnered with Cxmmunity to host the HBCU NetWORK Gaming Conference. Cxmmunity is a non-profit organization whose mission is to increase minority engagement within the esports and gaming industries. HBCU NetWORK will be a two-day esports and gaming conference for HBCU students in the Baltimore, Washington D.C., and Eastern Shore area.
When is the HBCU NetWork Conference?
The conference will be virtual and stream on November 12 and November 13 on twitch.tv/gengsports. Featured events will include competitive gaming, panels, and workshops that highlight African-American leaders in the industry. Students will hear from prominent speakers on topics such as “Lesser Known Careers in Gaming” or “Craft Your Story”. Both of which intend to help students build their personal brand.
McDonald’s franchisees across the D.C., Maryland and Virginia (DMV) area worked with Gen.G and Cxmmunity to create this conference. Their mission is to help bridge the gap in opportunities in esports and gaming for students at HBCUs. Additionally, they want to provide opportunities for students to interact with all facets of the industry. From competitive gaming to content creation and event venue management, there is a rightful opportunity for everyone.
“We want to support the next generation of leaders in our community by offering them ways to engage with industries that excite them and match their passions and talents, ” said Raoul Alvarez, a local McDonald’s Owner/Operator. “We’re committed to showing our belief in the futures of these students and couldn’t be more excited to partner with Gen.G on this exciting esports conference.”
Cxmmunity Involvment
Cxmmunity is also creating a mentorship program for selected HBCU students that are aspiring content creators. Gen.G will provide equipment to improve their gaming setups and influencers to engage with students through games.
“We are excited to once again partner with McDonald’s, this time to focus on the development and growth of diversity and representation in the esports and gaming space,” said Kahlil Keys, Director of Strategic Initiatives at Gen.G. “Working with Cxmmunity to foster community and encourage academic excellence has been instrumental in furthering our mission of developing the industry’s next generation of talented and diverse voices.”
Additionally, top competitive players and clubs from HBCUs in the DMV area will be invited to participate in tournaments. Cash prizes and bragging rights will of course be going to the winning programs. Students will also have the chance to participate in a virtual cosplay contest and enter giveaways between panels and tournaments.
A can’t miss panel will be the “Hero Stories” in which guest speakers will share their personal career journeys. Speakers will also coach students on how to improve their gaming, and share advice on how to create better content.
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