Life update: Recent happenings and upcoming events!
Good day, fine reader! Hope all is well with you. I’ve been working to figure out a way to connect my blog’s RSS feed to my email newsletter, and I think this may officially be the first time it works. Fingers crossed.
Onto the recap…
Recent happenings
Debug your design interview journey series
Late last year, I penned a series of posts covering the design interview journey. The idea came to me after a series of mentorship conversations; my years of hiring and interviewing candidates gave me a unique look into hiring journeys at different companies. You can read that here — feel free to share it with anyone who might benefit.
New game: A Tourist in Your Own City
I made a short game for Global Game Jam 2024! It’s a little story about a desk worker who goes to one of those touristy comedy shows. Or not. It’s your choice.
Learn more and play the game now.
Staff and Principal Product Designer Panel
Last month, I facilitated a virtual Rosenfeld Media panel with several incredible Product Design leaders! In this panel, you’ll hear from very experienced designers who’ve managed to stay on the IC track while growing their careers. We get into some of the day-to-day nitty-gritty of what it means to be a Staff Designer or Principal Designer, and how to make this role a reality within your organization.
Fundraising for BronxWorks
I’m raising funds for BronxWorks and riding 40 miles during the Five Boro Bike Tour in NYC this May! I already met my goal of $750 — thanks to everyone who donated! If you have a few dollars to spare, please donate and help other cyclists meet their fundraising goal for this Bronx-based charity.
Upcoming events
UXDX NYC
At this UX conference in May, I’ll be facilitating a conversation for design professionals seeking pathways to growth that don’t necessarily lead to traditional management roles. Join us to redefine career success and discover new paths that align with your expertise and passions!
GDoCExpo
Lots of news here, so I’ve put it all into one section!
Memberships
In addition to layoffs, companies are also shrinking their budgets for supporting community events. That’s one of many reasons Game Devs of Color Expo is now accepting monthly donations through Ko-fi. If you dig what we do, please support the ninth year of our work by becoming a member. 🙏🏾
Other ways to support us include:
We’re always excited about every year, but this year is a special one for us. Help us make it happen!
Lunch meetup at GDC
Game Devs of Color is hosting a lunch meetup during GDC on Tuesday, March 19! The meetup is being organized in collaboration with Black in Gaming’s BIG Fest. If you’ll be at GDC, RSVP here and come through!
2024 event applications
Game Devs of Color Expo is back online this September! We are currently seeking applications for speakers and games. You don’t have to talk about being a game dev of color if that’s not your thing. We like talks about coding, narrative design, art, business, community, and whatever else you like.
Apply to speak or to showcase your game now!
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That’s all for now! See you next time ✨
Upcoming talks
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Advancing Beyond Senior Roles: Navigating Non-Management Career Paths
This unique gathering is designed for professionals seeking pathways to growth that don't necessarily lead to traditional management roles. Led by Catt Small, this session invites attendees to share their experiences, challenges, and strategies in carving out impactful, non-managerial career trajectories. Engage in candid discussions about alternative leadership roles, lateral moves that enrich skills skill , and roles that expand influence without the traditional management responsibilities. This is a unique opportunity to connect with peers facing similar career crossroads, learn from the collective wisdom, and envision new trajectories for your career journey. Join us to redefine career success and discover new paths that align with your expertise and passions. Redefine career success with Catt and unlock new paths that resonate with your expertise and passions.
Want to talk?
Got feedback, looking to suggest a future writing topic, or want to invite me to speak at your organization? Send me a message and I'll get back to you as soon as possible!