Empowering Black Voices in the Gaming Industry: A Path to Long-Term Sustainability

Fostering a more diverse and inclusive games industry is an ongoing effort that requires perseverance and dedication. Over the years, various initiatives and platforms 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 lesson for the organization has been finding ways to create sustainable opportunities for Black professionals in the industry. Woodward notes that this involves not only securing funding but also building relationships with key stakeholders, including developers, publishers, and platform holders. The organization's broadcasting efforts are also a crucial part of its strategy, providing a platform for Black game developers to showcase their work and connect with industry professionals. Woodward explains that this approach is intentional, as it allows Black Voices in Gaming to maintain its mission while also generating revenue and building partnerships with other organizations. The creation of the 2023 XPerience Excellence Accelerator, in collaboration with Netflix, is a key example of this approach. The accelerator provides funding and support to mobile game developers, with the goal of helping them elevate their projects and secure publishing deals. Woodward notes that the program is designed to provide a long-term relationship between developers and Netflix, which can be just as valuable as the monetary support. In addition to the accelerator, Black Voices in Gaming is also focused on showcasing the diversity of the African diaspora in the gaming industry, highlighting developers and games from different regions and backgrounds. Woodward believes that this approach is essential for promoting a more inclusive and diverse industry, as it helps to break down stereotypes and showcase the range of careers and opportunities available in the gaming sector. Looking ahead, Woodward's goal is to establish Black Voices in Gaming and the XPerience Excellence Accelerator as sustainable platforms that can provide ongoing support to Black developers and help them achieve longevity in the industry.