RIYADH: When she launched her YouTube channel last October under the pseudonym Geekshoard, Aya (who prefers not to give her family name) was determined to carve out a space for Saudi women in the male-dominated world of gaming, cosplay, and action-figure collecting. “The goal was to be more connected to the female gaming community in Saudi Arabia, which is not very big, and to bring a new perspective,” she told Arab News. She envisioned a space where women could connect over their shared love for games. She currently has more than 26,000 subscribers to her channel.
“(I am) encouraging ladies to be themselves more and be proud to be geeks,” she said.
The early days weren’t easy. Negative comments tested her resolve, but Aya refused to be discouraged. “I don’t think about it,” she said, adding that instead of letting the criticism get to her, she focuses on building connections.
“I got to know gamer ladies that were very friendly and lovely and built a small community. It was very nice to feel related to many people and feel connected to some.”
Aya sees gaming, anime, and cosplay as powerful forms of creative expression. “I would say just dive right in. Be yourself,” she said.
