Shaping an Inclusive Mentoring Ecosystem for Women and Non-Binary Developers in Games

On November 14th, during Games Ground Berlin, approximately 20 participants gathered for a round table discussion focused on creating a mentoring environment tailored for marginalized groups within the gaming industry, specifically women and non-binary developers. The workshop aimed to explore how an inclusive mentoring ecosystem could be cultivated, drawing from shared experiences of both mentors and mentees.

The conceptual approach demonstrated the solution proposed by the EU co-funded Interreg-BSR project BSG Go!: To focus on game development support agents and initiatives for a more resilient European game industry and strong regional support ecosystems and communities. Empowering marginalized groups to actively participate in these ecosystems through for example inclusive mentor training offers, is part of the solution of using a dedicated peer2peer approach instead of top-down trainings.

Participants highlighted that while conference-based mentoring provides valuable networking opportunities, these interactions often lack the depth needed for sustained growth. Many expressed a desire to seek mentorship but felt uncertain about how to initiate these relationships, whom to approach, or whether they were “qualified enough” to ask for guidance. Peer-to-peer mentoring emerged as a particularly effective entry point, with several attendees crediting their peers for helping them navigate early career challenges.

Mentors in attendance came from diverse backgrounds, having mentored within studios, universities, or through independent initiatives. A common observation was that many mentors had not experienced mentorship themselves, reflecting a broader issue where mentorship is often perceived as exclusive or inaccessible. The need for clearer expectations and training for mentors was emphasized, with participants seeking guidance on how to establish boundaries and effectively support mentees.

A significant number of participants admitted to never having engaged in mentorship, simply due to a lack of awareness about its existence in the industry. This points to a critical need to redefine mentorship as an inclusive opportunity rather than a privilege for a select few.

To foster a healthy mentoring ecosystem, the workshop clarified the nature of mentorship: it is a dialogue centered on guidance, reflection, and growth, distinct from coaching or teaching. Effective mentoring requires strong communication skills, clear goals, and a commitment to psychological safety. Establishing mentorship agreements can also help set expectations and maintain respectful, purposeful relationships.

Examples of existing initiatives in Europe, such as We in Games Finland and GameDev Girls Poland, demonstrate that while there are frameworks in place, a cohesive and inclusive mentoring ecosystem is still needed. Cultural differences also play a role, with some regions exhibiting strong traditions of knowledge sharing, while others, like Germany, may benefit from fostering a more open exchange of ideas.

The overarching insight from the discussion was clear: the gaming industry requires a mentoring ecosystem that is accessible, structured, and culturally aware, with transparent expectations and minimal barriers to entry. Participants expressed a desire for a community where guidance and learning are integral to the industry, rather than incidental encounters in conference settings.

Programme Manual Online

Choose