Breaking Barriers: Ashley’s Vision for Women in Gaming
A Voice for Change
In a world where the gaming industry has traditionally been male-dominated, passionate voices like Ashley’s are creating ripples of change. As a game designer at Leti Arts, Ashley isn’t just building games – she’s building bridges for women to cross into the vast, untapped opportunities of game development.
The Journey of Continuous Learning
“You never really stop learning,” Ashley reflects, sharing her experience leading the Women in Games Jam. Her journey began with a simple yet powerful realization: the gaming ecosystem needed more female voices, not just as players, but as creators, designers, and innovators.
The Power of Personal Connection
Through casual conversations and dedicated mentorship, Ashley has made it her mission to guide other women into the gaming space. Her approach is refreshingly personal – one conversation at a time, one friend at a time, carefully unveiling the possibilities that await in game development. It’s not just about showing them the door; it’s about walking with them through it.
Creating an Inclusive Gaming Community
The Women in Games Jam, despite facing challenges like massive internet outages, stands as a testament to inclusivity. Open to all, regardless of gender identity or geographical location, the event has become a sanctuary for learning, growth, and community building. Through workshops on Unity, asset creation, and invaluable experience sharing from industry experts, participants are equipped with both skills and confidence.
Addressing Industry Challenges
But Ashley’s vision extends beyond technical training. She acknowledges that women often need to work twice as hard in this industry, and she’s candid about the challenges that remain – from addressing sexual harassment to ensuring better work-life balance through improved leave policies. Her message to aspiring female game developers is beautifully simple: “Just do it.” She emphasizes that while passion is crucial, theoretical knowledge and mentorship are equally important companions on this journey.
The Impact of Dedication
What’s particularly touching is Ashley’s genuine amazement at the emotion and dedication shown by women participating in the initiative. Despite her initial anxiety about being involved in the debut event, she found herself inspired by the participants’ enthusiasm and commitment.
Envisioning a Brighter Future
Looking ahead, Ashley envisions a future where more women not only join the industry but thrive in it. Her hopes extend beyond mere representation – she’s working toward a gaming industry that actively provides opportunities for women, celebrates their contributions, and ensures their security, both physical and emotional.
A Movement, Not Just an Event
The Women in Games Jam isn’t just an event; it’s a movement, a statement, and most importantly, a beginning. As Ashley and her team prepare for next year’s session, they’re calling for organizational bodies to support this initiative through funding, infrastructure, and expertise.
The Ripple Effect
In the end, Ashley’s story reminds us that transforming an industry begins with transforming individual lives. Through dedication, mentorship, and unwavering support, she’s not just developing games – she’s developing the future of gaming itself.