Meet Duane Pierre of World Wide Youth Networks

What was your entry point into esports/gaming and what is your current role?: I run a network of nonprofits that use Esports for education and empowering youth; high school Esports Coach; collegiate Esports Coach.

Why did you decide to become a member of ESTA?: I wanted more insight into the industry and how we can expand it into Connecticut.

Tell us 3 fun/unexpected facts about yourself: I started a GI Joe toy repair business in the 5th grade; I wasn't allowed to play video games, and didn't own a console until I was 18; I got a Certificate of Recognition from the City of New York for peer mentoring work at 19 and have been doing advocacy work ever since.

Which aspect of the esports industry are you most passionate about?: Scholastic Esports is my expertise. I'm empowering youth and advocating for scholastic Esports in schools in multiple States and working with an education company in Dubai and several other initiatives geared at bringing Esports to schools across the African continent.