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Women in Games International at Game Developer’s Conference (GDC)
Women in Games International (WIGI) has announced its presence at the Game Developer’s Conference (GDC) for the current week, with new initiatives and mentees for its Get in the Game Program. Partnering with companies like Oculus Publishing, Amazon Games, Google for Games, Embracer Group, Unity, Savvy Games Group, and Xsolla, WIGI is offering 10 mentees valuable networking and mentorship experiences, along with a fully funded trip to GDC.
Shana Teri Bryant, executive producer at Oculus Publishing, expressed excitement for the program, stating, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Women in Games International on this year’s Get in the Game GDC initiative. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion form the core of our work at Oculus Publishing, and we are committed to supporting programs that uplift developers from underrepresented communities.”
Additionally, WIGI’s offerings this year encompass an 18K “Run for Equality” charity event, starting at the San Francisco conference and concluding at Gamescom in August. Participants can contribute by logging miles at these events or playing games like Roblox and Minecraft. The aim is to shed light on the gender pay disparity prevalent in the games industry.
WIGI’s GDC Highlights
In an interview with GamesBeat, Joanie Kraut, WIGI CEO, emphasized that besides financial assistance, the organization provides mentorship crucial for attendees. The mentorship sessions with C-suite and VP women offer a unique opportunity for individuals to seek guidance, ask questions, and receive feedback tailored to their professional journey. Kraut underlined the significance of setting long-term career goals and fostering a supportive network.
WIGI’s Get in the Game Program Impact
The Get in the Game Program launched in 2021 with an initial group of 27 applicants, resulting in a high job placement rate post-program completion. Brian Ward, CEO of Savvy Games Group, highlighted the company’s commitment to diversity and equality, both internally and across the broader games sector.
Kraut outlined that the initiative targets budding creators and aspirants who lack access to industry resources. By offering mentorship from accomplished women, WIGI aims to empower individuals from underrepresented regions, providing them a glimpse of success and a pathway to thriving in the games industry.
Former mentee Caelus McKeel shared his positive experience, noting, “WIGI offered me a week of profound industry insights and soul-searching regarding my future within it. The supportive mentors became instant friends, guiding me through this transformative journey with grace and wisdom.”
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