Amplifying LGBTQ+ Inclusion Through ERGs in Gaming

This LGBT History Month we are exploring the power of networks to amplify LGBTQ+ inclusion. Join us for an insightful session in collaboration with OutMakingGames (OMG)—the recipients of the Outstanding Diversity Network Award at the Inclusive Awards.

This webinar will dive into actionable strategies to showcase how OMG created impactful LGBTQ+ communities in gaming and explore practical steps to foster belonging while driving innovation.

Key take aways include:

• Why Out Making Games (OMG) was created
• What OMG do and how they deliver their inclusive work
• Examples of OMG’s accomplishments and how they achieved these successes
• Insights into how OMG was set up and built its networks and ways to replicate these strategies
• How to gain funding to deliver support and innovation
• How OMG identified allies in other businesses to partner with, in order to deliver further inclusion, support and change
• What businesses and individuals can do to achieve a more inclusive workplace and how this can drive innovation
• Tips for creating or empowering your own ERGs

Whether you’re a game developer, HR professional, or an ally passionate about diversity, you’ll walk away with tools to build a more inclusive and innovative environment no matter what industry you work in.

About the facilitators:

James Dodd (He/Him)

James is The Chair and a Director of Out Making Games, the non-profit organisation supporting and empowering LGBTQ+ professionals in the games industry. He is also a Partner at the global executive search firm Martin Tripp Associates, working on industry-agnostic leadership roles all around the world, from gaming and banking through to technology, think-tanks and beyond. He is on the DE&I Committee of the UK games and interactive entertainment industry trade body Ukie, is a #RaiseTheGame Pledge Partner and a full voting BAFTA Member. “Monocultures solve problems the same way, continue to give the same answers, and are slow to change. Diverse businesses are nimble, think differently, and frankly are a lot more interesting places to be.”

Elli Shapiro (She/Her)

Elli (she/her) is a Director and Founder of Out Making Games, the non-profit organisation supporting and empowering LGBTQ+ professionals in the games industry. Elli is also an Associate Technical Director at King and has worked variously in programming, design, strategy and leadership across Rocksteady, CCP and Sony. She is passionate about EDI in the games industry and improving representation and accessibility in video games.