Fnatic announces charitable partnership with UNICEF
The global esports organisation is raising funds for UNICEF programmes tackling 21st Century issues affecting children
FNATIC players and UNICEF supporter Marcus Rashford are coming together to promote a better world in-game and in-real-life for children globally
Yesterday, global esports organisation FNATIC announces it is partnering with UNICEF to tackle 21st Century issues affecting children globally. Funds raised from the partnership will contribute to UNICEF programmes around the world, working to create a safer, happier and better world for every child. The partnership will kick-off later this month with a programme of charity streams and content that promotes positivity in gaming with the #GotYourBack campaign. FNATIC players and influencers, as well as UNICEF supporter and England International footballer Marcus Rashford, will be involved to help raise funds for UNICEF programmes around the world. Toxic behaviour is a widespread cause of problems in online gaming and other communities, with many players frequently experiencing racism, homophobia, sexism, hate speech and other forms of bullying through interactions with other gamers. #GotYourBack will promote positivity in gaming as well as giving players and the community a platform to discuss their experiences and share methods on how to deal with toxic behaviour, creating a better environment for gamers, and in particular children. Funds raised throughout the campaign will support UNICEF’s programmes worldwide, helping to make a better world for children. FNATIC is raising funds for programmes such as UNICEF’s child friendly spaces initiative. Child-friendly spaces offer a safe place where children can be children, where they can learn and play together. These sanctuaries also offer essential health services such as vaccinations and counselling and help to protect children from exploitation and trafficking. Marcus Rashford said: “I have experienced the effects of toxic online behaviours myself, I know what that feels like, so partnering with UNICEF and FNATIC to promote positivity in gaming was a no-brainer for me. It’s important our platforms are used positively to offer a voice to causes and, in this case, children, who sometimes struggle to be heard. I’m very happy to provide that.” FNATIC COO Glen Calvert said: “‘Toxicity online is one of the biggest challenges we face in our industry as it creates barriers to entry and enjoyment for players and fans alike. Together with UNICEF we can help our community tackle this problem and work to build a safe, positive and inclusive environment for all, while raising money for the world’s most vulnerable children.” Sue Adams, UNICEF UK Director of Partnerships, said: ‘UNICEF is committed to creating a better world for all children, wherever they are – online or offline. We therefore welcome this opportunity to work together with FNATIC to tackle online toxic behaviour, whilst also raising funds for our on the ground programmes.’ #GotYourBack kicks off with Marcus Rashford streaming with World #1 FIFA star Donovan ‘Tekkz’ Hunt on 23rd January. For more information on the partnership please click here. .
