Welcome to our interview series “Tribe Meets…”, where we have the privilege of sitting down with some of the top African gamers and diving into their remarkable journeys.
Today, we are thrilled to have Phab, a true gaming sensation, joining us. Phab has conquered the competitive gaming scene and paved the way for aspiring gamers across the continent. In this exclusive interview, we'll delve into Phab's incredible journey, uncovering his steps to reach the pinnacle of success.
We'll also explore his invaluable advice for fellow gamers who dream of advancing their gaming careers. Without further ado, let's dive into this fascinating conversation with Phab!
Who is Phab?
Confidence Captain, popularly known as Phab, is an accomplished and passionate Nigerian Esports Caster and mobile gamer. With an intense love for gaming and a natural talent for engaging commentary, he has carved out a name for himself in the competitive gaming scene. His journey has been defined by remarkable achievements, including being a standout presence at prestigious events like Gamr X and online events hosted by Carry1st, Kon10dr, 10N8E, and Amplified (Mobile Mayhem).
What sets Phab apart is his unique style, unwavering confidence, and ability to captivate audiences. With his deep love for gaming and undeniable talent for casting, Phab is dedicated to leaving a lasting impact on the Nigerian esports and gaming community.
Please tell us a little bit about your background and how you became interested in mobile gaming.
Initially, I didn't have a gaming background, but my passion for mobile gaming was ignited in school. A close friend introduced me to the world of mobile games, and I was immediately captivated. As someone with an educational background in Information Studies and a deep appreciation for technology, this rapidly evolving field naturally sparked my interest.
I was introduced to Mini Militia, a popular mobile game during my school years. It was an exciting experience that opened my eyes to the possibilities of mobile gaming. From there, my interest grew, and I immersed myself in popular titles like Player Unknown Battleground Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile.
What fascinated me was how these games, often associated with PC gaming and high hardware requirements, were easily accessible and provided an enjoyable experience on mobile devices.
What have been some of the challenges you've faced as a mobile gamer in Africa, and how have you overcome them?
One significant challenge I faced as a mobile gamer in Africa was the stigma surrounding gaming in African households. Initially, playing games was seen as an idle or unproductive activity and a taboo was associated with it. However, I recognized the need to address this issue and took the initiative to educate my parents about the possibilities and benefits of gaming.
I explained to them how gaming could open doors to opportunities in the growing esports industry. I could change their perspective and gain their support by having open and honest conversations, which was crucial for pursuing my passion for mobile gaming.
Apart from the stigma, many African gamers face a common challenge is network issues. To overcome this problem, I invested in a reliable fiber internet connection. This upgrade allowed me to enjoy gaming seamlessly and participate in competitive gameplay.
How do you balance your gaming career with other aspects of your life, such as work or family?
Balancing my gaming career with work and family was initially quite challenging. However, I prioritized improving my time management skills and establishing clear boundaries to create a healthy balance in my life.
I learned to prioritize tasks and allocate specific gaming, work, and family periods to manage my time better. When it's time to game, I ensure I can fully immerse myself in the experience without any distractions. Likewise, when spending quality moments with my family, I set aside all gaming-related activities and give them my undivided attention.
Setting boundaries has been crucial in maintaining a healthy balance. I established clear guidelines for myself, determining when engaging in gaming, family activities, or work-related tasks is appropriate. By sticking to these boundaries, I can keep a healthy separation between my gaming career and other important aspects of my life.
Creating a schedule has played a vital role in helping me manage my time effectively. A structured routine allows me to plan and allocate dedicated time for gaming, work, and family activities. By following this schedule, I've grown personally and professionally while still enjoying my passion for gaming.
I've also recognized the significance of avoiding any gaming-related activities during work hours. I consciously refrain from gaming during those times to stay focused and productive in my professional endeavours.
What strategies have you found most effective for improving your gaming skills and career advancement?
Consistency has been my guiding principle throughout my journey. The more you engage in something, the better you become. This mindset has shaped who I am today.
For me, growth comes from continuous dedication and effort. I have embraced the idea that success in gaming, like any other pursuit, requires a consistent grind. It's through this unwavering commitment that I have been able to achieve significant progress in my gaming career.
This philosophy has not only improved my gaming skills but has also molded my character. It has taught me the importance of perseverance, discipline, and resilience.
Consistent practice, combined with a growth mindset, unlocks our full potential. By embracing this approach, I have witnessed the transformative power of dedication firsthand.
Through persistent efforts, I have evolved as a gamer, constantly refining my skills and pushing myself to new heights. Consistency has been the driving force behind my progress and continues to shape my journey.
Can you tell us about your most memorable experience or achievement as a mobile gamer and what made it so special?
One of the most memorable moments in my gaming career was being a part of Gamr X. It was a surreal experience that made me realize, "Oh, this is happening." That moment was a significant milestone for me, and it holds a special place in my heart, even today.
Although nerves did get the better of me then, I look back on that experience with great fondness. It was a defining moment that reaffirmed my passion for gaming and solidified my dedication to pursuing a career in the industry.
Being a part of Gamr X was a personal achievement and a validation of the hard work and effort I had put into honing my skills. It provided me with a platform to showcase my abilities and connect with like-minded individuals with the same gaming passion.
I cherish that moment because it was a turning point in my journey. It ignited a renewed determination and fueled my aspirations to excel in the gaming industry. It is a constant reminder of what is possible when you pursue your passions wholeheartedly.
What advice would you give to other aspiring mobile gamers in Africa looking to build successful careers in the industry?
My advice would be to stop procrastinating and take that first step toward your gaming career. Once you begin, don't let anything deter you from the grind. There will inevitably be roadblocks along the way, but if you persevere and keep pushing forward, you'll find that there's always a light at the end of the tunnel.
It's essential to keep in mind that challenges will arise on your journey. There may be setbacks, rejections, or moments of self-doubt. However, it's crucial to maintain your determination and resilience. Embrace these obstacles as opportunities for growth and learning. Each roadblock you encounter is a chance to develop new strategies, improve your skills, and become even more resilient.
So, stop procrastinating, embrace the grind, and stay committed to your dreams. The journey may not always be easy, but with perseverance, you'll reach your destination and realize the immense potential that lies within you.