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March 9-13, 2026
Moscone CenterSan Francisco, CA

Agenda

Mid+ Stage Career Development for Marginalized Game Devs: Surviving the Post-DEI Climate

Monica Fan  (Game Designer, Pipeworks Studio)
Nina Kim  (Senior Game Designer, Rare Ltd.)
Leyla Lacombe  (Producer, Santa Monica Studios)
Nahir Fajardo  (CEO, Producer and Social Worker, Dreams of Heaven Games)
Michael Jones  (Sr Sound Designer, Independent)
Lyn Dang  (Owner & Principal Consultant, Studio Citrus)
Location: Room 2016, West Hall
Date: Tuesday, March 10
Time: 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Pass Type: Festival Pass, Game Changer Pass - Get your pass now!
Audience Level: Intermediate
Track: Career, Culture & Sustainability
Format: Microtalks
Vault Recording: Video
Audience Level: Intermediate

In 2026, marginalized game developers will face a lot of new challenges due to changes in the global political climate and video game funding preferences. While there are still some resources for people who want to join the industry, the opportunities and resources who those who are beyond "junior level" have been a lot slimmer in comparison.

Hear the stories of marginalized game developers about their unique challenges after a few years into their career, how they managed to survive in the industry against all odds, and shatter the industry glass ceiling to leadership roles. As well as how the industry can better support marginalized game developers under the current climate.

Takeaway

The talk will give hope and tools for other mid and junior game developers who are experiencing similar difficulty in their game dev career. Help current and future leaders understand the unique challenges facing marginalized game developers and what they can do to help

Intended Audience

Game developers with marginalized identities who want to understand the cost and resources to maintain career longevity, game development managers and leaders who are interested in helping preserve the diversity of the game industry and its creative output