Empowering Black Voices in the Gaming Industry: A Path to Sustainable Growth

Fostering a more diverse and inclusive games industry is a long-term endeavor that requires perseverance and dedication. Over the years, various initiatives have emerged to support underrepresented communities, including Black Voices in Gaming, which was established in 2020 with the mission of promoting and showcasing the contributions of Black game developers. The organization has become a regular presence at media showcases, highlighting the work of Black game creators and providing opportunities for networking and collaboration. According to Justin Woodward, director and co-founder of Black Voices in Gaming, the most significant challenge for the organization has been creating sustainable work opportunities for Black professionals in the industry. Woodward notes that creating a nonprofit organization that can provide funding and support for developers is crucial, but it requires finding the right funding models and partnerships to ensure long-term sustainability. He emphasizes that people of color must be represented in decision-making positions within the industry, and that Black Voices in Gaming exists to address this opportunity gap. The organization has maintained a strong media presence, partnering with larger publications and platforms to showcase the work of Black game developers. Woodward explains that this media presence is not only a way to promote the organization's mission but also a business decision that helps to maintain its partnerships and funding. He adds that the organization's goal is to provide lasting support to Black professionals in the gaming space, and that the creation of the 2023 XPerience Excellence Accelerator, in collaboration with Netflix, is a key step towards achieving this goal. The accelerator aims to provide funding and support to mobile game developers, with the long-term goal of establishing a sustainable platform that can help developers network, secure funding, and publish their titles. Woodward notes that the organization intends to expand its programs to support Black developers on PC and console, in addition to mobile creators, and to showcase individuals from diverse regions of the African diaspora. He emphasizes the importance of promoting diverse career paths within the games industry, beyond surface-level employment, and highlighting the many possible careers that are available to Black professionals. By providing opportunities for networking, funding, and publishing, Black Voices in Gaming aims to create a more sustainable and inclusive gaming industry that supports the growth and development of Black professionals.