THE AMBASSADORS CHANGING GAMES
Women in Games CEO Dr Marie-Claire Isaaman on why the organisation’s Individual Ambassador programme matters…
A
t Women in Games, our mission is to challenge and counter gender inequality across the industry,
and one of the most powerful ways we do this is through our Individual Ambassador Programme. Having begun as a grass-roots initiative,
the programme has grown into a truly global movement. With more than 2,800 ambassadors across 102 countries, it represents a vibrant and active community of people who share a commitment to making games more inclusive, equitable and welcoming. At its core, the Individual Ambassador
Programme empowers people to become visible advocates for change. Ambassadors act as role models, engage in their local communities, and contribute to initiatives that inspire and support others entering or progressing within the industry. They help amplify voices, build networks and create opportunities for collaboration. Importantly, the programme is powered by
Keywords Studios, whose support enables us to grow the initiative and extend its impact worldwide. Their partnership demonstrates the crucial role industry leaders play in supporting meaningful change. Keywords Studios’ Global Head of DEIB
Athena-Maria Enderstein explains: “We’re proud of our continued partnership with Women in Games through the Individual Ambassadors Programme. It provides a valuable space to learn, share experiences, and receive meaningful support as Ambassadors navigate their careers. In turn, Ambassadors form a global community advocating collectively for a more equitable and inclusive games industry.”
22 | MCV/DEVELOP February/March 2026 Athena-Maria Enderstein The strength of the programme lies in
the diversity of the people who take part. Our Ambassadors come from every corner of the industry and from regions where representation in games is still emerging. It is worth noting that men are welcome to join as Ambassadors; indeed, around 15% of our Ambassadors are male allies – and we are grateful for their support. For Urooj Iqbal, a Growth & Partnerships
Manager supporting indie projects in Pakistan, joining the programme was about visibility and connection. “Because I couldn’t find enough women around me in the local games space,” she explains, “I realised how important visibility, representation, and community-building are.” In the US, Valerie Norton, President of
games PR and influencer agency Sandbox Strategies, sees the programme as a way to help others find their place in a competitive sector. “This is a tough industry to break into and to stay in,” she says, “and I wanted to support other women, as well as minorities, to help find their space and know they’re welcome here.” For Dahlia Khodur, Co-Partner at
Sunnymoon Project in Lebanon, the programme represents a shared sense of purpose. “I’ve always felt the need for more
representation of female creatives in the game industry,” she offers. “Finding Women in Games made me feel I belong to a group sharing the same message and purpose.” Viktoryia Mahuila, a Recruitment
Manager at Testronic in Poland, joined the programme to encourage others entering the industry through non-traditional routes. “My own experience showed me how important encouragement and visibility are,” she explains. “I wanted to help create that for others.” Emily Harris, a Concept Artist at INTERIOR/NIGHT in the UK, offers: “When I started pursuing a career in concept art, it quickly became clear how important visibility, support networks and shared knowledge are. Being a WIG Ambassador, I hope to offer confidence and encouragement to those hoping to find a place in games.” As the games industry continues to
mature, the importance of representation, belonging and opportunity has never been greater. By empowering individuals to become advocates within their own communities, the Women in Games Individual Ambassador Programme helps ensure that the future of games is shaped by a broader range of voices and perspectives. And with the continued support of
partners such as Keywords Studios – and the passion of thousands of Ambassadors around the world – that future is one we can build together.
If you’re interested in finding out more about becoming a
Women in Games Ambassador, visit
www.womeningames.org
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