The Get in the Game Program is a highlight of WIGI’s presence at GDC, offering 10 mentees an all-expenses-covered trip to the conference along with valuable networking and mentorship experiences. Partnered companies like Oculus Publishing are also providing their own opportunities for program participants. Shana Teri Bryant, executive producer at Oculus Publishing, emphasizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the industry and expresses pride in supporting initiatives that elevate developers from underrepresented groups.
But WIGI isn’t just about funding and opportunities. CEO Joanie Kraut highlights the power of mentorship in their program. Through daily mentorship meetings with influential women in leadership positions, mentees have the chance to ask questions, receive feedback, and set goals for their career journeys. Kraut describes it as a transformative experience that builds a community and fosters impactful networking.
WIGI’s commitment to gender equality in the gaming industry is further demonstrated with their “Run for Equality” charity event. Participants can log miles either on the ground at GDC and Gamescom or in popular games like Roblox and Minecraft. The event aims to raise awareness of the gender pay gap within the industry, shedding light on an important issue that still needs to be addressed.
The Get in the Game Program, which began in 2021, has already seen great success. Around 90% of mentees receive job offers within weeks of completing the program. Brian Ward, CEO of Savvy Games Group, emphasizes the importance of equality and diversity in the industry, applauding WIGI’s efforts to provide opportunities for underrepresented creators.
One of the program’s former mentees, Caelus McKeel, attests to the impact of WIGI’s mentorship: “WIGI provided me with a week full of learning not only about the industry I have loved since I was a baby, but also a week full of learning about where I see my future in it. My mentors were the most supportive women ever, and I’m so grateful to have been able to call them my friends just a day after meeting them outside of our hotel lobby.”
In a gaming industry where passion meets business, WIGI is making strides to ensure that everyone has a chance to succeed. Their dedication to empowering underrepresented communities through mentorship and opportunities is commendable. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, organizations like WIGI play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive and diverse landscape for all aspiring developers.
