Bumble has partnered with esports organisation Gen.G to form the first all-female Fortnite team.
‘Team Bumble’ recruited five of the most prominent female competitors and is prepared to make further additions in the future if necessary. A dedicated Bumble streaming room for professional players was set up at the main Gen.G facility in Los Angeles.
The initial lineup consists of Kristen “KittyPlays” Valnicek, Madison “maddiesuun” Mann, Tina “TINARAES” Perez, Carlee Gress and Hannah Reyes.
Bumble also entered into an official partnership with Kristen Valnicek, who was made head of Gen.G’s new gaming initiatives last year, gaining access to her ‘#TeamKitty’ network of hundreds of female gamers and streamers.
Valnicek said in a statement: “I’m honored to partner with Bumble to make a lasting impact in gaming! Bumble is a visionary company in technology, media, women’s empowerment, and facilitating human connection, which perfectly aligns with my own vision of inspiring positivity and empowering my audience.
A searchable ‘Gaming’ badge is now available on Bumble BFF to help women find new friends to game with. The badge was previously only available on the dating mode.
According to recent figures, 35% of Fortnite players are female. In spite of this high uptake, the majority report experiencing discrimination from other gamers.
Bumble’s VP of Marketing Chelsea Maclin commented: “Our mission at Bumble is to empower women around the world, and we’re proud to partner with Gen.G to continue expanding into the esports and gaming communities.
“We’re trying to support the women who are already building incredible communities in gaming. We’ve built strong communities through Bumble and Gen.G and we’re excited to work together to help bring the gamer community together in real life.
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