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Joahanna Thomas (HR Manager, Avalanche Studios)
Date: Monday, March 15
Time: 11:15 am - 11:45 am
Track: Advocacy
Format: Discussion Session
Vault Recording: TBD
Audience Level: All
This GDC 2019 talk will feature real-time interaction with the speaker through online chat messaging during its scheduled broadcast. This GDC talk will feature real-time interaction with the speaker through online chat messaging during its scheduled broadcast. It's known that the game industry is predominantly white and male. You have listened to talks and seen data that reinforces the problem. You agree that improvements to diversity efforts and increased inclusion is good for this industry fueled by creativity and passion. But how do you make that happen? Avalanche Studios New York City, which makes AAA games embedded in a local indie culture, started D&I and maintains a very active D&I initiative. How did we start it and how were we able to maintain it? What does it cost and how much time is needed, how many people does it require? This talk is your starter kit for D&I, so you can achieve impeccable results in a short time
It's daunting to start a D&I initiative. Practical guidance on this topic is limited at best, specifically in the game industry. The audience, whatever their roles in a company may be (IT manager, HR, or employee) will get practical tips, best practices, and learn from Avalanche Studios mistakes. Find out how to get started and have a sustainable D&I initiative which yields improved diversity numbers; creating a healthy, diverse and creative company culture.
It's for all! Employees, managers, and leadership who are passionate and would like to enact changes in their companies. The heart to change the status quo is the only requirement. Larger companies could even save money by partnering with leadership, employees, and external organizations.