Global Esports Federation Announces Multi-Year Partnership with Pinion to Advance Global Youth Opportunities

Partnership expands pathways for education, talent discovery, and youth empowerment across the global esports ecosystem

The Global Esports Federation today announced a landmark multi-year partnership with Pinion, naming the global talent discovery and student recruitment platform a GEF Global Impact Partner. Pinion will support international student recruitment and opportunity discovery across the GEF ecosystem, strengthening pathways for education, scholarships, internships, and career development within the #worldconnected community.

Aligned with GEF’s commitment to building a safe, healthy, and inclusive global esports ecosystem, the partnership reinforces efforts to expand access to meaningful opportunities for youth. It aims to advance education and career pathways across GEF’s #worldconnected community, ensuring talent is better connected to opportunity regardless of geography or background.

“Esports is more than competition. It’s a catalyst for connection, innovation, education, and opportunity for young people everywhere,” said Sir Paul J. Foster, President & CEO, Global Esports Federation. “The Global Esports Federation believes talent exists in every community and every corner of the world. Through this partnership with Pinion, we are strengthening pathways for the next generation to be discovered, empowered, and connected to opportunities that can shape their futures. Together, we are building a more inclusive and interconnected global esports ecosystem where everyone has the opportunity to participate and thrive.”

Thanos Karagrounas, Chief Impact Officer, Global Esports Federation, added, “This partnership reflects a shared commitment to creating meaningful impact through esports and youth empowerment. By combining GEF’s global community with Pinion’s innovative platform, we can help unlock potential, amplify emerging talent, and inspire future generations across the world.”

Founded by veteran NCAA Division I basketball coach Scott Spinelli, Pinion connects students, athletes, gamers, and emerging talent with academic and professional opportunities through its proprietary compatibility technology. The platform currently supports users across more than 35 countries and over 50 sports and activity categories, including esports.

Scott Spinelli, Founder, Pinion, said, “Together, Pinion and Global Esports Federation share a vision of a world where talent is not defined by geography, economic circumstances, personal connections, or early recognition. Every young person deserves the opportunity to be seen, discovered, and supported in pursuing their goals.”

The partnership reflects a shared ambition to create meaningful opportunities for youth through esports, education, and global connectivity, reinforcing GEF’s vision of an interconnected ecosystem founded on the principles of Fair Play, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Innovation.