Microsoft has launched a new Xbox mentorship program targetted towards women in gaming. In celebration of International Women's Day and Women's History Month, the tech company has organized a set of one-on-one coaching sessions between aspiring talent and key leaders across its global market.
In a news post from Louise O'Connor, the executive producer at 'Rare,' a gaming company under the Xbox wing, O'Connor notes that only 30% of game developers globally identify as women. While Rare boasts a half-women workforce, not many companies can say the same. As a result of this, Microsoft is hosting these coaching sessions to help aspiring, talented women gain connections, information, recommendations, and experience on how to enter the gaming industry. O'Connor stated that she wants women to "see themselves as the hero in the games they play and in their own lives."
Also as part of this new initiative, Xbox has updated its 'Xbox Rewards' application to support women-focused charities. For the month of March, as players accrue rewards points, they can opt to use these points to support 'Girls Who Code,' 'Games & Online Harassment Hotline,' 'ReDI School of Digital Integration,' or 'PretaLab,' each of which are committed to diversity and inclusion in the online sphere.
Gender Inclusive Gaming Mentorships
Microsoft Has Launched a 'Women in Gaming' Mentorship Program
Trend Themes
1. Gender Inclusive Gaming - There is a growing need for more gender-inclusive games to encourage diversity and inclusion in the gaming space.
2. Mentorship Programs - Mentorship programs can help bridge the gender gap in industries where women are underrepresented.
3. Corporate Social Responsibility - Companies that practice CSR by supporting diversity and inclusion initiatives can enhance their brand image and attract top talent.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming - The gaming industry can benefit from more diverse voices in game development and creating games that appeal to a broader audience.
2. Tech - The tech industry can create more opportunities for underrepresented groups and improve diversity and inclusion practices.
3. Non-profit - Non-profit organizations that promote diversity and inclusion in the tech and gaming industries can benefit from increased support and resources.