Viva La Raza: A Letter to the Township Gamer

As many may know, I spent 2020 and 2021 being an advocate for Native Africans in video gaming, focusing on Township Gamers, those who couldn’t play competitively but wanted to despite where they were economically, and everything else that comes with that situation (I guess I started it for myself). That’s what Project Blerd was based around and the whole team was trying at least give out that little bit of hope and make township residents E-athletes. A huge shout out to Lesedi and Mfundo for the work!

What I came to realise was that even though nobody talks about it, the “big” South African Esports event companies don’t really think about the kids that come from where I come from, and that’s the stupidest shit you can do when it comes to the corporate world. I obviously call it stupid shit because it’s known that every investment yields results no matter how small it is and that’s why the words “Long Run” exist, and if they actually did invest in township gaming when we called for it, South Africa’s Esports industry wouldn’t be where it is right now (which is where we found it). Imagine a whole industry being carried by YouTube and Twitch content creators, along with Jabhi (the greatest to ever do it) because the companies don’t want to bring the game to a diverse audience. Another shoutout to Gamestar Africa, Malume Esports, ButtonMash ZA and Oki Gaming Academy for using the little they have to actually bring the people closer to the industry.

Now, my brothers and sisters, we obviously have it hard where we are and it’s pretty obvious that since we cannot become athletes, we can always get on the practical side of things to bring us closer, and it also might be more exciting than actually playing. This includes Event Planning, Graphic Design, PR, Marketing and Journalism (go to school!). Better yet, move out of the country and go somewhere better, maybe Kenya.

Also, PB would like to apologise for its disappearance but that doesn’t mean that it’s back (just in case you’re reminded of that one toxic ex), but we’ll forever check up on you because that’s what friends do for friends.

This has been Xolani Ntuli of Don’t Pass Him The Aux and Project Blerd, and all I can say is long live the race of Black South African gamers. Viva La Raza!

Say the Catchphrase.