Gen.G champions HBCU students pursuing gaming and esports careers

Esports organization Gen.G has partnered with McDonald's and the Black Collegiate Gaming Association (BCGA) to champion students in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through the HBCU+ College netWORK.

By working together, these parties are bringing back the HBCU+ College netWORK on Sept. 18. The HBCU+ College netWORK features events that provide students with mentorship, networking opportunities, and more. Students not only get to connect with top executives, but also entrepreneurs in gaming and esports.

"We had such great demand from our last two HBCU+ College netWORK events that we had to absolutely make sure we kept the doors open for students looking for the best mentorship possible in gaming and esports," Gen.G CEO Arnold Hur said. "Alongside McDonald’s and the Black Collegiate Gaming Association, we want to make sure any and all students who are interested in coming down this path can do so without any confusion or hindrance in order to reach their career goals."

Meanwhile, Keshia Walker, who is with the BCGA, provided insights about the impact these events. "As with any other industry, retention is key for any business looking to bring in the best talent," Walker said. "That process of retention can really start at the collegiate level, as long as students are given the proper tools and knowledge about the gaming and esports space to determine if they have the right opportunity in front of them."

Craig Welburn, the president of the McDonald’s Capital Business Unit and a McDonald’s owner, agreed. "We are deeply committed to helping youth receive opportunities that will help them realize their dreams," he said.

Welburn also highlighted that the HBCU+ College netWORK is designed to foster candid conversations with industry professionals while helping students build authentic connections.

In terms of these professionals and entrepreneurs, they include Leigh Felton, Lakisha Greenwade, Chris Davis, Pikachulita, and more. Students can also expect the Black Gamers Matter panel featuring candid discussions with industry leaders. Students can also look forward to a Madden NFL 25 tournament. This features a bracket of 24 plus a $1,000 prize pool.

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