Louisiana Scholastic Esports Federation: Shaping the Future of Gaming and Careers

The Power of Gaming to Shape Careers in Louisiana

In a world where gaming has become more than just a pastime, the Louisiana Scholastic Esports Federation (LASEF) is proving that esports can serve as a transformative educational tool. Founded with a unique vision, LASEF is helping students discover career paths through the world of gaming—bridging the gap between entertainment and professional opportunity.

Jeffery Harrison, Executive Director of LASEF, recognized that gaming could be much more than just a competitive pursuit. Instead of solely focusing on tournaments and trophies, LASEF leverages esports as a classroom to introduce students to the diverse career possibilities that stem from the digital world. Today, LASEF is building a new ecosystem where students can thrive both in and beyond the gaming arena.

A Vision Turned Reality: From Spark to Ecosystem

The inception of LASEF came from a simple yet profound idea: using esports as a stepping stone to prepare students for careers that were traditionally disconnected from gaming. The mission was clear—bring gaming into the educational fold, while also creating a lasting workforce development pipeline for the state of Louisiana.

"Most esports programs stop at just playing games. We go further," says Jeffery Harrison. "At LASEF, competition is only the beginning. Every match, broadcast, and event is a classroom for career discovery. While other leagues focus mainly on winning trophies, we focus on building Louisiana’s future workforce."

This dual approach sets LASEF apart. Through mentorship, hands-on experiences, and specialized programs, students are introduced to career-building opportunities in areas such as digital media, broadcast production, and event management. LASEF doesn’t just stop at gameplay; it prepares students for long-term career success.

Navigating Obstacles to Create Opportunity

As with any new initiative, LASEF faced its challenges. In the early stages, many questioned how esports could fit into the traditional educational landscape. Some skeptics viewed gaming as a distraction rather than an opportunity for growth. But LASEF persevered, showing educators and local businesses that esports could be a dynamic tool for workforce development.

By focusing on the broader educational benefits and offering workshops that explored career paths in tech and media, LASEF was able to demonstrate the tangible value esports could bring to students. Over time, the organization gained the backing of schools, businesses, and industry professionals, who recognized the potential of this growing sector.

LASEF’s journey from skepticism to support is a testament to its commitment and vision. Today, the organization has firmly established itself as a leader in bridging the gap between esports and career readiness in Louisiana.

A Turning Point: The Future of Esports in Louisiana

One of LASEF’s key milestones came with the 2025 eBrel Esports Jamboree. This high-profile event underscored the Federation’s vision for combining competitive gaming with career discovery. The jamboree was not only an opportunity for students to showcase their gaming skills but also a platform for them to connect with potential employers and explore career opportunities in the esports industry.

The jamboree, which highlighted new voices and big wins, was a glimpse into the future of esports in Louisiana. It demonstrated the value of LASEF’s approach: integrating education, competition, and career development in a way that benefits students, businesses, and the broader community.

"New voices, big wins, and a glimpse of the future" is not just a catchy slogan for LASEF—it’s a reflection of the organization’s impact on students and the industry as a whole. By making career development a central part of the esports experience, LASEF is reshaping how students and businesses think about the intersection of education and gaming.

What Makes LASEF Stand Out?

LASEF’s approach is distinct in the esports space. While many leagues focus on the competitive side of gaming, LASEF integrates educational programs that offer students career guidance and real-world skills. This makes LASEF more than just an esports league—it’s a comprehensive career development platform.

Moreover, LASEF stands out due to its commitment to the community. Rather than focusing solely on individual achievement, the organization fosters collaboration between students, educators, and industry professionals. This collective approach builds a sustainable ecosystem for growth and opportunity, ensuring that students are not only skilled gamers but also prepared professionals.

Get Involved with LASEF

LASEF is changing the game for students across Louisiana, providing them with the tools they need to succeed both in esports and in their future careers. The organization’s unique focus on education and workforce development offers a valuable platform for students to explore new opportunities.

To learn more about LASEF’s initiatives or get involved, visit their website, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Together, we can continue to build a brighter future for Louisiana’s students and help them unlock career paths that blend passion with purpose.