Game on! eSports Awards to Inspire Future Digital Leaders

28 November 2024

Students from comprehensive schools across Carmarthenshire gathered for an inspiring day at Yr Egin on the ��ϳԹ��’s (��ϳԹ��) Carmarthen campus. The event combined an exciting eSports competition with motivational presentations from eSports Wales, highlighting careers in the gaming and digital industries.

a group shot of each participant in eSports Wales conference

Pupils from Coedcae School, Llanelli; Ysgol Dyffryn Aman, Ammanford; St John Lloyd School, Llanelli; and Ysgol Gyfun Emlyn, Newcastle Emlyn participated in the competition. The day culminated in an awards ceremony, celebrating their achievements and showcasing the potential of eSports as a gateway to valuable career and educational opportunities.

The event aimed to develop learners’ digital skills and highlight the broad range of careers within gaming and related fields, such as coding, game design, podcasting, and the creative industries. It also emphasised the transferable skills fostered through eSports such as teamwork, strategic thinking, and leadership— skills that are essential for success in the workplace.

Nicola Powell, ��ϳԹ��’s Civic Engagement Development Officer and Project Manager said:

“Esports Wales in association with Yr Egin ensured a sensational layout for the young learners to play an Esports competition which could be viewed on a large screen. Young learners form Carmarthenshire comprehensive schools who played against each other at the series of Gaming Heroes Days at Coleg Sir Gar, Y Graig were awarded their winners trophies.

“Such a great platform to promote digital careers in Wales and plant the seed to young learners of the opportunities available to them in the future.

“Also they had a chance to visit the ��ϳԹ�� immersive room was organised which gave young learners and teachers a taste of a digitally effective way to develop knowledge and skills and an exciting insight in to the future of digital learning.”

John Jackson giving his keynote speech at the event

During the ceremony, John Jackson from eSports Wales delivered an inspiring keynote address. He highlighted the growing popularity of eSports, now the 8th most popular sport among Gen Z in Wales, bypassing rugby union. John emphasised the need to raise awareness of the industry’s grassroots-to-professional pathways and the increasing demand for skilled professionals in areas like communication, problem-solving, and digital innovation. He added:

“I’m thrilled to see the incredible talent and passion showcased at the Gaming Heroes Tournament. This event is not only a celebration of esports but a powerful platform to raise awareness of the opportunities within the gaming industry. By inspiring and equipping individuals with new digital skills, we’re paving pathways for future careers and growth in Wales’ thriving creative sector.”

Ameer hosting the event with two students in the foreground

The Awards host was Ameer Davies – Rana, an experienced S4C and BBC Radio Cymru presenter who makes regular visits into schools and universities to promote the Welsh language. He said:

“Gaming events like Gaming Heroes are absolutely vital for recognising, developing and leveraging gaming skills in young people. But more than that, they offer a unique experience and open doors to a huge field that is growing at an incredible pace. It’s a great way to show people, young and older, that the digital world – once seen as a hobby in your bedroom – now offers opportunities and careers that can be taken seriously, with the potential to change lives completely.

“I’m very grateful to John Jackson, CEO of Esports Wales, for this wonderful opportunity. I love listening to his ideas of how to untangle this buzz and I really want to work with him long term to make these big dreams turn into reality.

“That’s why I’m incredibly proud to be part of these early stages in promoting something that I think is going to be historic. As a presenter and business owner (1Million), I am always looking for ways to inspire young people in Wales to take great opportunities for their future. It’s a privilege to be one of those people who has their foot in the door, as the saying goes, and I’m really excited to build something special with Esports Wales.”

Trophies were presented to teams from each participating school, followed by a celebratory lunch. Teachers praised the initiative, highlighting its positive impact on students’ aspirations and skill development:

Steffan Hubbard, a teacher from Ysgol Gyfun Emlyn said:

“Attending the Gaming Heroes events such as the one at Yr Egin, Carmarthen empowers pupils by showcasing career pathways in the esports industry, fostering skills in teamwork, communication, and technology, and igniting passions that can lead to future success in gaming and beyond.”

This innovative project was made possible through funding from Carmarthenshire County Council’s Shared Prosperity Fund, secured via a joint bid by ��ϳԹ��’s Civic Engagement team and Coleg Sir Gâr, who are working collaboratively to deliver the initiative.