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March 9-13, 2026
Moscone CenterSan Francisco, CA

Agenda

#1ReasonToBe

Laia Bee  (Co-Founder, Pincer Games)
Jay Justice  (Narrative Writer, Consultant and Editor, Independent)
Samantha Halloran  (Senior Gameplay Engineer, Unseen Inc.)
Irene Cortes  (Founder, Gata Games, Gata Games)
Briana White  (Actress & Content Creator, Strange Rebel Gaming)
Elaine Gomez  (Creative Director, Midnight Hour Games)
Location: Room 2010, West Hall
Date: Wednesday, March 11
Time: 1:50 pm - 2:50 pm
Pass Type: Festival Pass, Game Changer Pass - Get your pass now!
Audience Level: All
Track: Culture & Sustainability
Format: Microtalks
Vault Recording: Video
Audience Level: All

This celebrated panel carries forward the legacy of one of GDC's most impactful diversity panels, originally initiated by the legendary Brenda Romero and Leigh Alexander, and later continued by Rami Ismail. #1ReasonToBe showcases women from underrepresented sectors, engaging in candid conversations about game development from their distinct and unique perspectives.


Through 8-minute presentations, each speaker will unveil their individual #1ReasonToBe in the game industry. These presentations will not only highlight personal motivations but also share their unique journeys in game development, touching on themes of community, culture, and opportunity.


Featuring speakers from diverse backgrounds, #1ReasonToBe offers a revealing glimpse into the industry's true global reach—demonstrating that its impact extends far beyond what may initially meet the eye.

Takeaway

#1ReasonToBe holds the power to broaden the horizons of our industry and the global challenges we confront. By providing insights into the often-overlooked realities and cultures, the panel sheds light on dimensions that are not conventionally visible to game developers.

Intended Audience

#1ReasonToBe resonates with the game developers' community hungry for inspiration. It's a symphony of diverse voices, particularly spotlighting women's experiences across cultures. For those eager to infuse their creativity with global insights, this panel offers a harmonious blend of perspectives that redefine game development possibilities.