Pearl Teese: Championing Queer Visibility in Gaming’s Digital Frontier

Pearl Teese’s ascent in the gaming world was solidified in July 2025 with her recognition as LGBTQ+ Content Creator of the Year at the globally broadcast Gayming Awards, an event celebrating queer excellence in gaming and television. The award, determined by public vote and a panel of judges, acknowledges Teese’s advocacy, creativity, and commitment to inclusive content creation.

Teese, who identifies as transgender, is renowned for her dynamic Twitch streams and outspoken support for LGBTQ+ gamers. Her digital presence is more than entertainment—it’s a lifeline and rallying point for queer players navigating gaming’s sometimes challenging social terrain. In her own words, “Visibility matters because it tells every LGBTQ+ gamer that they belong here, too. We’re not just playing—we’re shaping the future of these worlds”.

The significance of Teese’s win is underscored by shifting industry demographics. According to the Game Developers Conference’s 2025 State of the Game Industry report, LGBTQ+ representation among developers has climbed to 25%, up from 21% the previous year. Notably, nearly half of developers aged 18 to 24 now identify as LGBTQ+, reflecting a generational change in openness and acceptance.

This surge in queer visibility is mirrored within gaming communities, where nearly 20% of esports players and 17% of active gamers now identify as LGBTQ+. Younger generations, especially Gen Z and Millennials, are leading this charge, finding community and creative expression in online gaming spaces. As Teese noted during a post-award interview, “Gaming has given queer people a platform to tell our stories. It’s more than play—it’s our culture coming alive in real time”.

Teese’s influence extends beyond her streams. She regularly collaborates with organizations such as the Gayming Foundation, a newly launched nonprofit dedicated to empowering LGBTQ+ game workers and fans. The Foundation aims to “affect change, celebrate inclusivity, and drive forward representation in games,” offering resources for professional development and community support.

Through workshops, speaking engagements, and digital campaigns, Teese challenges industry gatekeepers to prioritize diversity and inclusion. She has spoken candidly about the barriers LGBTQ+ gamers face, from harassment to lack of representation: “Too many queer voices still go unheard in development meetings and on screen. My goal is to make sure we’re not just seen, but valued for our contributions and creativity”.

The 2025 Gayming Awards also spotlighted up-and-coming talent through the LGBTQ Streamer Rising Star Class, highlighting creators whose work fosters community and visibility. Teese’s acknowledgment of these rising stars—BoyeFran, Bvssykatdoll, Mynxie666, and WillJinkies—demonstrates her commitment to lifting others as she rises, emphasizing collective progress over individual achievement.

Her advocacy is rooted in collaboration: “The best part of this journey has been seeing so many trans, non-binary, lesbian, gay, and bi gamers supporting each other. We’re showing the world what it means to be proud, talented, and unstoppable”.

The evolution of gaming in 2025 is marked by increasing diversity, technological innovation, and the growing influence of queer creators. As more LGBTQ+ individuals enter professional roles in gaming and tech, the industry is poised for greater inclusivity and innovation. Advocacy groups like the IGDA LGBTQ+ Special Interest Group continue to provide career development and professional support, ensuring that queer perspectives shape the future of technology.

Pearl Teese’s journey reflects the resilience and creativity of LGBTQ+ individuals in tech. Her story underscores the importance of visibility, advocacy, and community-building—reminding us that every game is richer when all voices are heard.