My Story

It’s how they learn. I never want to lose a child-like ability to enjoy play. I think it’s how we stay connected to silliness which we can easily forget is an important element of a joyous adult life too. By making games for kids, I have learnt to stay in touch with my silly side; to encourage it in myself and others, and, in that experience I have learned so much about what drives a child to learn through joyful engagement. I never want to stop learning like a child. It’s just too much silly fun!

My Call to the Industry

It needs to prioritise research into digital safety for kids, design for their development, and undeniably positive play for all.

My Story

This is something I think holds true in any industry that both historically and currently has less of a female presence. Drawing from my experience as a trans woman there is a reality that I, and people like me, have to face which is that our existence within any space is considered political in today's climate. The games industry is no exception. When I started studying to work in the games industry, I was 17 and had yet to fully come to terms with who I was as a trans woman: but I knew I liked games! And I wanted to create experiences for others and share this same joy with the world. 

I was 19 when I transitioned - and while I consider it the best thing I've ever done, it was also overshadowed by a fear that the door to realising my dream as a game artist would shut. In an industry that's already deemed a 'meat-grinder' to all, it's easy to fall into the trap of thinking you won't find a place that will accept you, recognise your skills and be patient with your individual circumstances. While there is a truth that most women, trans people and queer folk will at some point in their career face unfair treatment for the simple fact that we are existing as ourselves. It's important that we continue to stand our ground. It's important that we make a space for ourselves and unapologetically pursue our passions - both for ourselves and others like us. 

In my own experience over the last 2 years working as a 3D artist with StoryToys I've been met with nothing but acceptance and encouragement to grow and develop in my role. The culture fostered here so clearly benefits not only the individual but every team of every project as a whole. As unreachable as it can seem, there is a place for you in this industry. Games are a form of art, not just a soulless product - and like any art form can only grow and improve from a wide perspective. 

My Call to the Industry

An important part of equity is understanding that people come from a large variety of lived experiences, and meeting people where they are. Initiatives that empower women and LGBTQ+ people in the workplace aren't just nice to have, but necessary moving forward as an industry.