When #fam supports

pursuing a passion needs will power, vision, and perseverance for sure. however, for all the tough times between milestones, a generous support system becomes invaluable. “originally, my parents had no idea about the world of esports and gaming, and so never took it seriously until i explained to them how big the professional gaming scene is actually. my friends who play games for leisure think that it’s cool that i’m pursuing gaming, and trying to make a job out of a hobby. some other friends from my social circles didn’t really understand what i do, and some even labelled it as a waste of time. but, once i put it in perspective for them, they were awe-struck by the vastness of the world of esports,” says bradley ismail, a dubai-based teen gamer, who has earned around dh83,500 (as of last year) from coaching other gamers.

award winning dj Karan bhatia, who plays at popular clubs in the uae, saw his journey take off when his parents first enrolled him in piano classes. “i have been blessed with the most supportive parents. right before i was to move to the us for university, i won a dj competition. it gave way to a stint at one of the most popular radio stations in the uae. this, of course, meant that i had to forgo my plans of heading to the us. my parents’ advice was that i pursue my education first. they felt that since music is what i love, i will eventually follow my passion,” he says.