Avori Henderson

Interview by Alyssa Winn |Photographer: Tim Gillies

Former Miss America pageant participant Avori Henderson has made a name for herself, not only as a model, but in the world of gaming. Navigating this male-dominated industry, Henderson is a pioneer for women in professional gaming. Aside from growing her impressive fanbase, the Colorado-based model has led the first ever professionally broadcasted, all-female PUBG tournament. Henderson continues to stream and create content, but her passion lies in serving as an advocate for girls and women, empowering them to make space for themselves and their love for gaming.

As women, we are constantly navigating male-dominated workplaces and determining how to stand up for ourselves. Do you feel a sense of growth with how you have had to deal with misogyny or not being taken seriously since entering the gaming world?

I have grown so much. Not only have I learned more about myself in this whole journey, but I have also learned a lot about how to deal with every type of personality out there. The internet is a harsh place and it’s not getting any better. At first, I felt like I had to combat the hate and stand up for myself with my voice, and now I realize that understanding the source is the most important part of combatting any issue with online trolls. Once you realize where the hate is coming from, you can silently prove them wrong. Being kind to everyone in the process of doing that will always work out best in your favor.

How do you believe competing in pageants prepared you for your current job?

I love being a role model – inspiring, teaching, and entertaining. Ever since I was a little girl, my parents always told me I had a talent for making people laugh. I carried that throughout my pageantry while learning the elegance of truly being a woman. I don’t think any other path in life would have prepared me for the gaming industry.