With my remaining time here, I will be transferring my responsibilities to Mike, and transitioning into a new role working closely with Activision Blizzard and WIGI to determine the first steps around how the grant will be utilized, and its structure. This money will be used to fund skill-building and mentorship programs.
While I am not totally sure what form that will take, I am excited to embark on a new journey to find out.ĪBK’s leadership is graciously offering their support for my decision and has worked with me on a plan to invest in the future of other women in the gaming industry, by agreeing to make a US $1 million grant to Women in Games International-a fantastic non-profit organization, where I am a board member, that cultivates and advances equality and diversity in the global games industry.
This energy has inspired me to step out and explore how I can do more to have games and diversity intersect, and hopefully make a broader industry impact that will benefit Blizzard (and other studios) as well. I am doing this not because I am without hope for Blizzard, quite the opposite-I’m inspired by the passion of everyone here, working towards meaningful, lasting change with their whole hearts. Effective immediately, Mike Ybarra will lead Blizzard. I want you to hear from me personally that I have made the decision to step away from co-leading Blizzard Entertainment and will transition to a new position before departing ABK at the end of the year. Those of you who have played our games will know that sometimes our adventures can keep you on the quest you set out on, but sometimes, a new quest beckons us. I also have been fortunate to find my passion and voice in the diversity, equity, and inclusion space along the way. For the last 20 years of my career, I have loved developing games-they are my lifeblood. On a micro level, as I’ve listened to the stories from people all over Blizzard and been inspired by their courage and conviction, I’ve been thinking about the potential of what I can do as an individual to create the most meaningful change.
On a macro level, Mike Ybarra and I, along with the rest of Blizzard, have been navigating the important changes we must undertake in order to be known as the creative powerhouse that brought hundreds of millions of players into Azeroth, Sanctuary, and more, all while ensuring our workplace and game communities are truly inclusive, safe, and inviting to all. Over the last few months, many of us have been taking the time to ask ourselves how we can effect the most positive change in our workplace, in our games, and in our communities.
Blizzard co-lead Jen Oneal yesterday announced her departure from Blizzard Entertainment and here's her message to the community.
0 kommentar(er)
