A school in the UAE city of Sharjah has implemented a digital detox camp for its students. As increased screen time becomes a worry in regions with rising digital penetration, school teachers are looking for methods to provide the younger cohort with alternatives.

Internet forums are safe spaces for many minority communities, but all too often trolls and bullies get in the way. Middle Eastern LGBTQ platform Ahwaa uses gamification as a tool to fend off haters and protect its users, proving the power of time-investment in building authentic communities.

Once perceived as an anti-social pursuit, gaming now offers people a way to connect with peers around the world through streaming, forums, and social media. How do these diverse communities go beyond gameplay to support individuals in their search for escapism and creative expression?

Twitch has established itself as the leading player in live gaming coverage, but it’s not the only thing drawing people back on a daily basis. As the platform’s content has diversified beyond esports, the interactions between streamers and viewers have made into a hub for community and discussion.