“Women Are Leading the Charge: How Female Leaders Are Revolutionizing the Esports Industry”
Esports, the global phenomenon that has skyrocketed into a multi-billion-dollar industry, is often associated with intense competition, high stakes, and impressive skill. But there’s a quiet revolution happening behind the scenes, one led by women who are breaking down barriers and making their mark in an industry historically dominated by men.
Despite women making up nearly 50% of the global gaming community (according to Statista), they represent only about 5% of professional gamers, with women occupying just 30% of industry jobs and a mere 16% of executive roles at the top 15 gaming companies worldwide. These figures are a stark reminder that while gaming is a universal passion, there’s a clear gender gap that needs addressing.
However, change is underway, and female leaders like Sabrina Ratih from G2 Esports and Amelie Canet from Team Vitality are leading the charge. Both women are pushing for greater diversity and inclusion within esports, and their stories highlight the incredible strides being made.
Rising Stars in Esports Leadership
Sabrina Ratih, G2 Esports’ Chief Operating Officer (COO), has climbed the corporate ladder thanks to her extensive experience in marketing, including a significant stint at Red Bull’s Media House. After a successful role as Interim Commercial Director, Ratih was named COO in 2023. Her journey is a testament to the value of persistence and expertise. Ratih’s focus on storytelling and brand positioning has contributed to G2’s success and its ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity in the esports space.
Similarly, Amelie Canet’s career in the gaming industry follows a path of strategic vision. With 17 years of experience at the Walt Disney Company, Canet brought her expertise in marketing and brand diversification to Team Vitality, where she leads the Strategy and Brand Diversification team. For Canet, joining Vitality was an exciting opportunity to explore the intersection of sports and entertainment in a rapidly growing field.
Overcoming Barriers to Inclusivity
Despite the progress, the esports industry still has a long way to go in terms of inclusivity. Women continue to face systemic barriers, both in professional gameplay and across the broader industry. The lack of representation and the toxicity prevalent in online spaces remain significant hurdles.
Ratih and Canet are not only aware of these challenges but are actively working to create spaces for women to thrive. Both G2 Esports and Team Vitality have signed women’s rosters, such as G2’s Gozen and Vitality’s Rising Bees, to provide competitive opportunities in a safe and supportive environment. This initiative is already showing positive results, with female players like Maya “Caltys” Henckel of G2 Esports noting the significant improvements in tournament accessibility since 2019.
The creation of women’s tournaments, such as Riot Games’ Game Changers league for women and marginalized genders, has also provided a much-needed platform for female players to showcase their skills. The success of G2’s women’s VALORANT team, including their win at the Game Changers Championship in 2022, proves the potential of these initiatives to elevate female players and inspire the next generation of talent.
Moving Toward Long-Lasting Change
While women’s esports is growing, the journey is far from over. The rise of the “esports winter” — a period marked by layoffs, business closures, and financial uncertainty — has caused some organizations to scale back investments in women’s esports. However, the increasing push for diversity and inclusion within organizations like G2 and Vitality is not only about promoting fairness but also about ensuring long-term sustainability.
Ratih and Canet both emphasize that true change starts within their own organizations. G2 Esports, for example, has made diversity a cornerstone of its corporate culture, pushing for more inclusive league and tournament ecosystems across all titles. Similarly, Team Vitality’s professional equality index of 93/100 speaks to their commitment to gender diversity, and their strategic partnerships, like the collaboration with ALDI, help raise awareness about online toxicity and gender issues.
The Future of Esports: A Level Playing Field
As both Ratih and Canet assert, the future of esports isn’t just about showcasing talent; it’s about making sure that talent is nurtured, no matter the gender. The more inclusive the ecosystem becomes, the more opportunities will open up for players and creators alike. The esports industry is at a crossroads — and if we want it to reach its full potential, diversity and inclusion must be at the heart of its evolution.
As Ratih wisely points out, “We are talking about 50% of the population.” Esports needs to embrace this untapped potential, not just as a moral imperative but as a business opportunity. The more diverse the talent pool, the more expansive the audience becomes, leading to new revenue streams and greater growth.
With leaders like Ratih and Canet paving the way, the future of esports looks not only more inclusive but brighter for all.
