"Gamescom, the annual video game convention held in Cologne, Germany, is a unique event. It not only draws hundreds of thousands of players to pack out vast convention halls each year, but it also hosts professionals, offering them a chance to get their games into the hands of fans, and gives industry hopefuls a shot at passing their resumes to developers. For those based outside the US, it is the biggest event of the year by far."
"Though Walles is fairly new to the IGDA Foundation, having joined three years ago, she is a video game industry veteran. She knows how crucial it is to help those who aren't born into privileged situations, who can't afford to travel across the globe to conventions, or have not had traditional schooling in computer design or coding."
"The IGDA Foundation started by funding trips for a select group to the annual Game Developers Conference in San Francisco, an expensive endeavour that often excludes hundreds of developers from marginalised communities or more remote regions of the world. When the Covid pandemic redefined video game events, the IGDA Foundation had to get creative that's when former executive director Nika Nour came up with the Virtual Exchange, a six-week online programme that pairs grantees with a veteran game industry coach."
Gamescom attracts hundreds of thousands of players and industry professionals, providing exposure, networking, and hiring opportunities. For many outside the US, Gamescom is the year's largest gaming event. The IGDA Foundation delivers professional development to underrepresented and marginalised people seeking entry into the video game industry. The Foundation funds travel to major conferences and created the Virtual Exchange, a six-week online programme that pairs grantees with veteran industry coaches. Alyssa Walles brings long industry experience and emphasizes support for those who lack financial means or formal training in coding or design.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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