Interesting Facts About Kiara Hardewpersad
- Age Started Gaming: Around 3-4 years old.
- First Gaming Experience: Playing cartridge "TV games" with older cousins.
- Years Playing Garena Free Fire: 5 years.
- Preferred Free Fire Server: Started on European servers, now in Middle Eastern.
- Advocacy: A vocal advocate for better gaming experiences in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Favourite Part of Gaming: Building friendships with players across the globe.
- Role in Community: Mentor and community leader, helping younger players.
- Work: Associate Community Manager at Carry1st.
Kiara, a passionate gamer from South Africa, has been making waves in the Free Fire community for five years. She’s not only a skilled player but also a mentor and advocate for better gaming experiences in Sub-Saharan Africa.
In this Q&A, Kiara shares insights into her gaming journey, the challenges she’s faced, and her role as a leader within the community.
When did you start gaming, and what was your first experience?
Kiara: "I started gaming when I was around three or four years old. My first experience was playing old-school cartridge “TV games” with my older cousins. Those early memories of arcade games sparked my love for gaming, which has stayed with me ever since."
How did you discover Free Fire, and what kept you playing?
Kiara: "I was introduced to Free Fire by a former friend about five years ago. I never imagined I’d fall in love with the game like I did. The local gaming community in South Africa felt like family from the start, and that sense of belonging really fuelled my passion. It wasn’t just about the game; it was about the friendships I built."
You’ve played on different servers. How has that shaped your experience?
Kiara: “I started on European servers and made friends in places like the UK and Croatia. But when I moved to the Middle Eastern server, it was a different experience. Language barriers and cultural differences were challenging, but gaming is universal. It’s given me friendships and connections that I wouldn’t trade for anything.”
You’re a strong advocate for Sub-Saharan African players. What are the key issues you face?
Kiara: “It’s tough in our region. We don’t always have the best servers or connectivity, which makes gaming frustrating at times. I’m constantly advocating for developers to give us the attention we deserve. Sub-Saharan Africa has incredible talent, and it’s time that it’s recognised.”
As a female gamer, what challenges have you encountered, and how do you handle them?
Kiara: “Being a female gamer in a male-dominated space comes with its challenges. Some people hear my voice in-game and assume I’m not good, but that just pushes me to prove them wrong. Female gamers are just as skilled as anyone else, and we’re here to stay.”
How do you approach mentorship and community building?
Kiara: “I didn’t have much guidance when I started, so now I mentor younger players. Seeing their confidence grow alongside their skills is the most rewarding part. For me, gaming is about building meaningful connections and helping the next generation succeed.”
Kiara’s journey in the Free Fire community is one of resilience, leadership, and passion. As a gamer, mentor, and advocate, she’s breaking barriers and pushing for a brighter future for Sub-Saharan African players. Through her efforts, she’s not only shaping her own path but helping others thrive in the gaming world.
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