The gender gap continues to affect every area of our lives, and the technology industry is no exception. Women and diversities struggle to find an equitable platform in most sectors. In predominantly male-dominated industries, like gaming and e-sports, non-profit organizations such as “Mujeres en VG” and “Women in Games” have found that 75% of women in Latin America suffer mistreatment, discrimination or harassment just because of their gender, even in professional roles as developers, animators or others in the video game industry.
This highlights the need for inclusive and safe spaces where women and diversities can shine regardless of their gender. In gaming and e-sports, Project Gema is a Globant initiative aimed at creating spaces of training, inspiration and support so that women and diversities of different ages can enter the video game industry without violence.
Unmuting the Scene
Project Gema’s motto, “Unmuting the Scene,” did not come about by chance. Research by Project Gema on the experiences and obstacles faced by women in the industry found that:
- 36.2% of the women surveyed are unpaid in the industry, although more than half play an active role.
- 75% of those who are not active in the video game industry tried to enter, but failed due to lack of opportunities, discrimination and fear.
- 60% of respondents experienced discrimination based on their gender or sexual orientation.
Polishing Gems in the Gaming World
In this sense, promoting safe places where women and diversities feel comfortable, whether developing or playing video games, is fundamental. That’s why Project Gema constantly organizes activities to achieve this purpose. From talks for teenagers and young people to streaming programs, the initiative seeks to reduce the inclusion gap by making women visible. Some of the most outstanding activities include:
- Gema Talks: A streaming program on Twitch that, in order to open and encourage debate around the issue, brings together industry leaders to share their day-to-day experiences as video game professionals, inspiring more people to join without fear and without prejudice.
- #UnmutingTheScene: An awareness campaign that was a finalist in the 2023 edition of the SportBiz Awards in the “Best CSR Action” category.
- Game Jam: Introductory talks on video game development and support during the creation of prototypes by volunteers from the Games Studio and organized by “Woman in Games”.
The Gema Community
But the most valuable aspect of Project Gema has been the community it fostered, in which the passion for video games is the beating heart that drives the spirit of this initiative. Volunteer Globers from different industries unite incessantly to strengthen and continue to create spaces free of violence, harassment and gender stereotypes in gaming and e-sports.
Today, there are more than 84 volunteers in Latin America and Europe, and you too can be part of the movement. Join the Project Gema community through its Discord channel and subscribe to the newsletter to get the latest news.
