Empowering Young Professionals in the Gaming Industry

As part of the Black Voices Progress Report, GamesIndustry.biz highlights the diverse experiences of Black professionals in the gaming sector. This interview features Funké Joseph, a multifaceted individual who has transitioned from journalism to marketing and now works as a developer at Focus Entertainment. Joseph's background in multimedia journalism has equipped them with a unique perspective on the industry. Despite being aware of the potential for layoffs, they pursued a career in game development, driven by their passion for creating engaging worlds. Joseph's journey began with freelancing in journalism, which ultimately led them to a role at Fanbyte, a publication that unfortunately experienced layoffs. This setback proved to be a blessing in disguise, as it prompted Joseph to explore other opportunities, including a marketing position at Focus Entertainment. As they delved deeper into the industry, Joseph discovered a newfound appreciation for the complexities of game development and the collaborative efforts required to bring a project to life. Their experience has been a learning curve, with valuable insights gained from colleagues and management. Joseph's passion for game design led them to establish an indie studio, Play Underground Games, where they can create their own worlds. Despite the challenges facing the industry, including layoffs and poor management, Joseph remains optimistic about the future. They believe that the gaming industry offers a wealth of opportunities for young professionals and that it is essential to organize and unionize to create a safer and more sustainable work environment. Joseph's career has been shaped by the professional relationships they have built and the mentors they have encountered, including those in the Black Voices in Gaming community. The work of other Black game developers has also been a source of inspiration, motivating Joseph to pursue their goals. With a deeper understanding of the business side of the industry, Joseph is confident that the future of gaming is bright, with a growing audience and increasing opportunities for developers to create engaging and sustainable games.