Empowering Marginalized Game Developers: Tara Mustapha's Vision for a Sustainable Future

Tara Mustapha, founder and CEO of Code Coven, has been announced as part of the 2025 Ensemble cohort, an initiative that showcases underrepresented games professionals in the UK. With a career spanning over 15 years in the industry, Mustapha has worked with notable companies such as Electronic Arts and Microsoft Game Studios. However, her experience has also been marked by the challenges faced by underrepresented developers, prompting her to establish Code Coven in 2018. This global accelerator and academy aims to provide a platform for marginalized developers to demonstrate their skills, access industry opportunities, and secure funding for their projects. Mustapha describes Code Coven as an 'ecosystem' that addresses the lack of infrastructure supporting underrepresented developers, offering education, funding, mentorship, and industry connections. The organization's mission is rooted in necessity, driven by the need to create a more inclusive and resilient industry. One of Code Coven's key programs is the Aurora Accelerator, which provides industry feedback, mentorship, and guidance on navigating the games funding process. Mustapha emphasizes the importance of intentional opportunity and access to capital, mentorship, and community for underrepresented developers. By supporting marginalized talent, Code Coven is shaping a more diverse and sustainable games industry. Despite the challenges posed by the current industry landscape, marked by layoffs and funding shifts, Mustapha remains optimistic about the future. She believes that the industry's evolution presents an opportunity for growth, innovation, and a more inclusive business model. With initiatives like Code Coven, the games industry can prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion, ultimately leading to a more resilient and successful future.