The She Got Game mentoring programme, funded by Swiss organizations, has begun accepting applications for emerging women game designers. This initiative, which runs until August 2026, targets applicants from Africa, the Arab region, East Asia, South America, South Asia, and Vietnam. The program aims to enhance the representation of women in the gaming industry, especially in managerial and leadership roles, by offering mentorship and support from seasoned international professionals. This comprehensive guide covers open call: women game designers across africa and other regions in detail.
Understanding Open Call: Women Game Designers Across Africa And Other Regions
Women who are emerging game developers or run small studios are encouraged to apply, provided their relevant training or self-employment status has been established within the last seven years. To qualify, applicants must either have a connection to Switzerland or be residents of the eligible countries. The projects submitted should focus on digital content designed for platforms such as mixed-reality devices, computers, game consoles, and mobile devices. Learn more about this topic on Wikipedia.
Applicants will be evaluated based on several criteria, including the clarity of their participation and career objectives, as well as the originality and market potential of their projects. It’s crucial that projects maintain ownership of copyright and relevant usage rights, with a clearly defined interactive content structure. Notably, projects that are commissioned or part of advertising Campaigns are excluded, as are those that lack a narrative or aesthetic focus.
Comprehensive Support for Selected Participants
Participants chosen for the She Got Game programme will gain access to a wealth of resources aimed at facilitating their growth in the gaming industry. They’ll receive individual coaching and expert sessions on project development, business strategies, finance, marketing, public relations, and pitching. Furthermore, they will be integrated into a growing community of women game developers, fostering networking and collaboration.
Each selected participant will also receive CHF 3,000 (approximately $3,700) to develop a prototype or demo version of their project. For those with childcare responsibilities, additional financial support of up to CHF 250 per week is available to help cover childcare or travel costs associated with attending international trade fairs. Applicants will need to submit a budget outlining their anticipated expenses in advance.
Application Process and Key Dates
The application process for the She Got Game programme requires aspiring game designers to submit several documents. These include a concise CV detailing their education, nationality, and residency status in Switzerland, as well as a project description of no more than 10 A4 pages. This description should cover the game’s type and genre, gameplay, platform, development stage, target audience, and relevant visual material.
Additionally, applicants must provide a project portfolio and a statement that outlines their expectations and objectives for participating in the programme. All applications must be completed in English, although submissions in German, French, or Italian may be accepted if English is not feasible.
Applications are officially open as of August 1, 2026, and will remain accessible until the closing date, which has yet to be announced. This initiative represents a significant opportunity for women in the gaming industry to gain the mentorship and resources necessary to flourish in a field where they are often underrepresented.
Previous Success Stories and Future Aspirations
One notable success story from the She Got Game programme is Nigerian artist Grace James, who was selected as a recipient in 2025. Her experience underscores the programme’s commitment to empowering women in the gaming sector and highlights the potential for transformative growth in their careers. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, initiatives like this are vital for ensuring that women have equal opportunities to succeed.
In a world where gaming is increasingly recognized as a powerful medium for storytelling and creativity, the importance of diverse voices cannot be overstated. The She Got Game programme not only aims to create a more equitable landscape within the Swiss and international gaming industries but also strives to inspire a new generation of female game designers.
As the deadline for applications approaches, the excitement in the community is palpable. Women game designers across the targeted regions are encouraged to seize this opportunity, develop innovative projects, and contribute their unique perspectives to the gaming world. The future looks promising for women in game design, and initiatives like these can help pave the way for greater inclusivity and representation in the industry.
Originally reported by Music In Africa. View original.
