At just 12 years old, Irene Banda has already earned Primary School National Colours, Senior Gauteng Provincial Colours, and Primary School Colours for the Clash Royale Esports title. She is currently the top-ranked female Clash Royale player in South Africa.
It’s clear to see that with these performances, the preteen gamer is the future of the sport, and with this comes great responsibility. Banda’s participation in the online gaming world is essential as it creates the crucial representation the sport needs.
The youngster already has dreams of becoming the “first Black world champion in Clash Royale.” This is certainly something that could happen given her top performances at her young age.
Banda shared some time with gsport, where she shared how she got into esports and how she wants to make history in the sport in the coming years.
How did you become part of the esports world?
“I became part of the esports world because I enjoy playing games like Roblox and Clash Royale, and I wanted to compete against other people to see how good I was.”
What inspires you about being in esports?
“I am inspired by meeting other people who are competing against other countries and hopefully going to other countries to play.”
What would you say to encourage girls to join esports?
“I would encourage girls to become part of esports because it is fun to play and it makes me feel happy and relaxed.”
Do you expect to see more growth for girls in esports in the future?
“Yes, I do think more girls will be playing esports in the future because, as gaming on your cellphones is easier, and while playing, we can all still talk to each other.”
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What are your career aspirations in esports?
“My career aspirations in esports are to represent South Africa and to be the first Black world champion in Clash Royale. I would also like to branch out and do presenting and streaming of esports.”
You said you would love to be the first Black woman to become a champion. What does it mean to you that you can be the much-needed representation for girls that the sports need?
“I would like to be the first Black female world champion in Clash Royale because it’s important that all Africans can see that they can participate in other countries and do well.”
How important is it to you as a young girl to be a role model to other girls like you?
“It is very important to be a role model if you are successful in order to show that anybody can do well if they work hard.”
Who are your female role models in esports?
“My female role models in esports are all the members of the Protea female Counter Strike and MLBB teams. They are simply the best in Africa, and they are all wonderful women. I especially like Avonique van Rooyen, who is still at school and is a really good esports player.”
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When it comes to attending competitions, do you have any financial assistance getting to competitions, as well as your esports needs?
“At the moment, I have only played in the online competitions, so I only need my cellphone and Wi-Fi. All the support I get is from my parents, who support me.”
What message do you have for potential sponsors who can assist you financially?
“I do not have any sponsors, but getting some financial assistance is something that I would like. The message for a possible sponsor is that they will be helping a young woman, and we are the future.”
Main Photo Caption: Twelve years old rising star Irene Banda is making waves in the competitive world of mobile gaming, and is excited about representing succesful Black girls as a part of the future of esports in South Africa. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: Banda is currently the top-ranked female Clash Royale player in South Africa, having earned National Primary School and Senior Gauteng Provincial colours.
Photo 3 Caption: The Primary school gamer admires scholar gamer Avonique van Rooyen and Protea Female Counter Strike and MLBB teams.
