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Esports students raise funds for disability gaming charity with live stream event

Around 20 esports students at Suffolk New College raised money for Special Effect, a charity that uses technology to help people with physical disabilities play video games, through a live-streamed gaming event that attracted nearly 16,000 online engagements.

Archie Holden-Cameron taking part in the e-sports fundraiser
Archie Holden-Cameron taking part in the e-sports fundraiser
(Suffolk New CollegeSuffolk New College)

Why it matters: The event, held at the college's Tech Campus in Ipswich, gave students hands-on experience in professional event production, live commentary and online broadcasting.

The details: The fundraiser was organised by esports lecturer George King and saw students compete against each other while simultaneously running the live stream. The event raised £100 for Special Effect, which works to transform the lives of people with physical challenges through innovative use of technology.

What they're saying: King said: "We ran the event in our Tech Campus. It was all done live and I'm very proud of the students. This is the first time we have done something like this as far as I'm aware and we plan to do this again in the future."

Students also played a key role in bringing the event to life. Student Byron Pearson, 19, from Ipswich, served as a shoutcaster, commentating on the action and interviewing players. "It's the first time I've ever done something like this - so it gave me confidence. I think it's important to help put esports out there and raise money so others can play games," he said.

The bottom line: What started as a classroom exercise became a professional live event with a real-world impact, and the college says it plans to do it again in the future.

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Despite a lack of promotion, the big reveal drew a good crowd of passersby

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