IGDA Foundation and Riot Games Workshop a Success!
Our virtual career event with Riot Games was a total blast and a huge success! The goal was to give aspiring game developers from underrepresented communities a chance to get to know the different job opportunities available in the video game development industry. And, boy, did Riot Games deliver!
We started off by introducing a bunch of Rioters, giving everyone a chance to get to know the different roles within the company and ask questions. Later, virtual breakout rooms allowed attendees to connect with these industry experts and learn more about all the career paths available. “The IGDA-F is at the forefront of creating inclusive spaces, programming, and mentoring for the next generation of gaming professionals, many who have been historically underserved by the industry. Together, we joined forces with them to design this “Discover Jobs in Games” workshop and panel featuring 11 of our Rioters” shared Victoria Sanchez, Riot’s Diversity Community Program Manager. “I’m proud of our work together, and how strongly we sought to design a space where students could ask Rioters industry questions that are top of mind to them.”
One of the highlights of the event was the diverse representation of Rioters from a variety of backgrounds and fields in the gaming industry, including QA, production, art, localization, talent acquisition, and research. This gave attendees a well-rounded understanding of all the different job options in the industry.
The Rioters were a hit with attendees, who appreciated their knowledgeable, friendly, and down-to-earth attitudes. They seemed genuinely interested in helping the next generation of professionals and offering helpful advice.
Valerie Rubio, a Masters of Science student in Game Design said: “The event was fantastic…I learned more than I expected on how to better prepare myself to possibly apply for an internship/job… I really loved seeing the diversity and how many women are part of the team! This virtual event has inspired me to keep going with a chance of making it into the industry!”
Mia Watkins, Creative Operations at Riot: "It was awesome to be a part of this panel! I enjoyed hearing from students who are passionate about this industry, and chatting with students in the breakout rooms was a real treat. IDGA Foundation is a dope organization that's helping so many folks from around the world enter this industry!"
The IGDA Foundation also had an opportunity to spotlight our programs, which are all about helping aspiring game developers from underrepresented communities break into the industry.
“...The attendees were engaged and eager to learn, asking well-thought-out questions until the last minute of the session. As a speaker for this event and a previous mentor for their Virtual Exchange Program, I have been amazed by the curiosity and follow through of IGDA Foundation's students.” Anran Li, Manager, Software Engineering
Overall, the event was a huge success, and attendees loved the opportunity to learn more about the industry and connect with industry experts. We can't wait to host more events like this in the future and continue making the game development community more diverse and inclusive.