Empowering Young Professionals in the Gaming Industry | Black Voices Progress Report

As part of GamesIndustry.biz's Black Voices Progress Report, we delve into the experiences of Black professionals in the gaming sector. Our final featured developer of the month, Funké Joseph, exemplifies the multifaceted nature of individuals in the industry, having transitioned from journalism to marketing and now development. With a background in multimedia journalism from Ryerson University, Joseph has contributed to notable publications such as IGN, Vice, and GameSpot. However, their passion for game development led them to explore new opportunities, including a stint as a marketing editor and creative producer at Focus Entertainment. When asked about their experience in the industry, Joseph expressed a mix of awe and concern. "Being part of an industry that creates the most incredible form of art is amazing, but it's also disheartening to see its current state," they said. "Despite the challenges, I'm excited to be a part of this world and contribute to its growth." Joseph's journey into game development was not without its challenges. They began by freelancing as a journalist, but soon realized that the pay was not sustainable. "I started writing for various publications, but it was tough to make a living wage," they explained. "However, it helped me build my portfolio and eventually led to other opportunities." One such opportunity was working as a featured contributor at Fanbyte, where Joseph gained valuable experience and insights into the gaming industry. Although they faced layoffs, Joseph views this experience as a catalyst for their growth. "Getting laid off was a turning point for me," they said. "It forced me to re-evaluate my goals and explore new possibilities. I started learning game design and eventually landed a job at Focus Entertainment." Joseph's experience at Focus has been a learning curve, with the sheer amount of work involved in game development being a surprise. "I had no idea how much went into creating a game," they admitted. "But it's been an incredible journey, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to work with such a talented team." Despite the challenges facing the industry, Joseph remains optimistic about the future. "The gaming industry is full of opportunities, and I believe that with the right mindset and support, anyone can succeed," they said. "I want to inspire young professionals in my age range to take the leap and pursue their passions, even in the face of adversity." Joseph attributes their success to the professional relationships they've built and maintained. "Being genuine, passionate, and open to learning has been key to my growth," they explained. "I've been fortunate to have mentors and peers who believe in me and my vision." The work of other Black game developers has also been a source of inspiration for Joseph. "Seeing people like Dani Lalonders and Xalavier Nelson Jr. create amazing games and share their experiences has motivated me to keep pushing forward," they said. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, Joseph is confident that its future is bright. "There are so many games being developed, and the audience is growing," they said. "I believe that with the right approach, we can create a sustainable and thriving industry that benefits everyone involved."