Womenize! is an event series celebrating women and all under-represented people in the field of gaming.
Below you find the sessions our most recent event which took place on June 4, 2025 at Institut Français Berlin.
An overview of the schedule can be found here.
TALK: BEING A WOMAN IN ESPORTS – BETWEEN PERFORMANCE, PERSONALITY AND PSYCHOLOGIAL PRESSURE
TIME: 10:15 – 10:45 am
Mile dives headfirst into what it really means to be a woman in esports – especially as a caster. She’s breaking down the real talk: how to craft your own unique on-air personality, and handle the intense mental game that comes with matches, all while the spotlight is on you. Expect honest insights behind the mic in this male-dominated scene, from sky-high expectations to unpredictable audience reactions, and why resilience is key.
Mile will also share her personal story – how she first discovered esports, what inspired her to get involved, and how she kickstarted her career as a caster. With stories straight from her own journey, Mile shines a light on how the world of esports broadcasting is evolving and the big steps being made toward a more inclusive community. She’s not shying away from the tough topics either – like the mental health challenges and the real strategies that help you stay strong under pressure. Mile’s mission? To inspire, empower, and open the door for more women to make their voices heard in the world of esports casting.
Speaker: Mile
WORKSHOP: OFF THE BEATEN PATH: NAVIGATING A NONLINEAR JOURNEY INTO THE GAMES INDUSTRY
TIME: 10:45 – 11:45 am
Melanie shares her personal and professional path into the games industry—from studying 3D art to teaching, shifting into QA and project management, and ultimately founding her passion project KunstSpiel. Her story highlights the emotional realities behind career decisions, the value of uncertainty, and what it means to define success on your own terms. This workshop explores self-discovery, resilience, and aligning work with personal values. Through honest storytelling and reflective questions, Melanie invites participants to challenge conventional career narratives and consider how seemingly divergent steps can lead to meaningful, authentic careers in and around games.
Speakers:
Melanie Fussenegger
PANEL: ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE FOR GOOD: HOW BUSINESS TRANSFORMATIONS CAN SUCCEED
TIME: 10:55 – 11:55 AM
How can companies truly put their values into action and make real, lasting change? In this session, leaders from different organizations share how they are working to build businesses that are not only successful, but also socially and environmentally responsible.
Through brief impulse talks, each speaker introduces their organization’s approach to change, from innovative sustainability initiatives to redefining values in the face of commercial pressures. The conversation then deepens in a panel discussion that explores the rewards and the real challenges of trying to change how a business operates especially when purpose and profit don’t always align.
Expect a session that’s honest, forward-thinking, and grounded in practice, not just aspiration. Whether you’re navigating your own transformation or looking to begin, this panel offers both inspiration and critical reflection.
Speakers:
Ulrike Küchler
Aysuda Kölemen
Fernanda Pagani
Lukas Galinski
MASTERCLASS : SUPPORT YOUR ARTISTIC VOICE – Find Your Unique Perspective, Learn Methods & Realize Your Ideas
TIME: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Discover your creative spark and learn how to turn small ideas into meaningful concepts. This hands-on session helps you overcome the fear of the blank page and take your first steps toward expressing your unique perspective.
We’ll explore:
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What creativity really is and why it’s not just about talent
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How personal memories and emotions can fuel strong creative ideas
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Real-world examples from games, film, and literature
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Fun, beginner-friendly exercises to unlock your imagination
Tools: Pen & paper (always welcome!), or bring your laptop with Unity installed if you want to explore interactive ideas. No game industry experience needed.
Whether you’re dreaming of making games, telling stories, or just want to explore your imagination – this is your space to start.
Speakers:
Jenni Wergin
Klemens Reckfort
WORKSHOP: MAKE GAME AND TALK ABOUT IT (How a well presented profile leads to success on Kickstarter)
TIME: 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Remember that forest where a tree fell… but nobody was there to see or hear it? Making philosophers ask if it then actually fell at all?
Saying: if you do not talk about your game, nobody will know it exists, locking away the opportunity for people to buy and play it. So not only make great games, but please also share what you are working on!
In this workshop Michael will feature some cases where a clear profile of a game development studio helped them be more successful on Kickstarter, why the Kickstarter trajectory of marketing a game is the way to go for indies – even if you do not do the campaign at all – and how to set achievable goals and to follow the guide of “Don’t Panic!” when confronted with community building and marketing.
He will keep plenty of time for Q&A and deep dives into the topics that interest you, the audience of this session, most.
Speaker: Michael Liebe
TALK: CHALLENGING TOKENISM IN GAMING: The BJV Scholarship and Afrogameuses Initiatives
TIME: 12:00 – 12:30 PM
Mickaël will present how the BJV Scholarship and Afrogameuses move beyond surface-level diversity gestures to create systemic change in gaming through their interventions. By addressing barriers at both educational and professional entry levels, these initiatives contribute to challenge the industry’s tendency toward tokenism and instead build sustainable pathways for underrepresented communities to thrive in gaming careers.
Speaker:
Mickaël Newton
TALK: HERR KERR – WHY I NEVER CORRECT PLAYERS ABOUT MY GENDER
TIME: 12:40 – 1:10 PM
Most players assume that I’m a man. They call me “Herr Kerr,” and I never correct them. Not because I’m hiding who I am, but because I’ve learned what a name can change-especially in the gaming industry and on the internet. In this talk, I’ll share why I encourage my female colleagues to use gender neutral Game Master names when interacting with players, and what can happen when they don’t. We’ll look at the subtle but very real consequences of being perceived as a woman in player support and on the internet-from being second-guessed, to receiving inappropriate comments, to struggling for authority in situations where we’re meant to lead. Working in a, supposedly, male-dominated field like the gaming industry means walking a strange line between visibility and protection. I’ll talk about what it means to hold power in a space that often questions it.
Speaker:
Kerr
TALK: 5 THINGS YOU ABSOLUTELY NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WORKPLACE HARRASSMENT
TIME: 2:15 – 2:45 PM
In this talk, criminologist Kristina Straßburger shares the five most important — and most overlooked — facts about workplace sexual harassment. This talk will challenge what you think you know and leave you equipped to spot, prevent and respond to harassment at work.
Speaker:
Kristina Straßburger
MASTERCLASS: 4 KEYS TO FUNDING – ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO NAVIGATING PUBLISHERS FOR GAME DEVELOPERS
TIME: 2:15 – 4:15 PM
Understand the core components of how you can get funding for your game, what you need for a pitch deck to start pitching and things to look out for in publishing agreements.
Speaker:
Jacky Martin
WORKSHOP: YOUR FIRST QUEST: ENTERING THE GAMING INDUSTRY WITH CONFIDENCE
TIME: 3:00 – 4:00 PM
Ready to take your first steps into the world of games, or into a new role in the industry? Whether you’re a student, junior, or mid-level professional, this session will equip you with the tools to stand out. We’ll dive into the most common mistakes seen in resumes and portfolios, share insider tips on what recruiters are really looking for, and give you a behind-the-scenes look at how hiring decisions are made. Walk away with practical advice to help you craft an application that catches attention – and gets you closer to landing your dream role in the games industry.
Speakers:
Alina Cuceu
Lauren Wade
PANEL: BALANCING ACT: NAVIGATING PARENTHOOD IN THE GAMES INDUSTRY
TIME: 3:00 – 3:45 PM
In an industry known for its fast pace and demanding schedules, working parents face unique challenges as they balance their careers with caregiving responsibilities. This panel brings together leading voices in the gaming industry to discuss the realities of being a working parent in gaming. Moderated by Stefanie Lager, a seasoned professional and mother herself, the conversation will explore strategies for managing work-life balance, the importance of supportive workplaces, and actionable steps the industry can take to better support parents. Join us for an insightful discussion on creating a more inclusive and family-friendly gaming industry.
Speakers:
Elisabeth Secker
Sena Tabak
Miles Tost
TALK: CAREER PIVOTS AND CULTURAL SHIFTS: A MIGRANT’S JOURNEY INTO TECH & GAMES
TIME: 4:00 – 4:45 pm
In this talk, Charlese shares her personal and professional journey to Europe, navigating migration, career changes, and breaking into the tech & games industry across cultures. Drawing from her experience as a Filipina finding her way in a male-dominated field, she offers an encouraging perspective on discovering your niche, using your voice to uplift others, and building a career that reflects both your values and strengths.
Speaker: Charlese Saballe
MASTERCLASS: MYTHS TO MEMORIES: ARCHIVING STORIES THAT MATTER
TIME: 4:30 – 6 PM
Who decides which stories matter? In this workshop, we will unpack what qualifies as a myth, what formulates legends, and how stories—big and small—are shaped by community, memory, and culture. Using TALES’ pioneering archiving work from the field, we will dive into an interactive workshop and knowledge exchange session that discusses how cultural narratives and personal stories intertwine, the ethical considerations in curation, and whether AI can play a role in creating novel, disruptive methodologies which centre our humanity. Let’s reflect together on the significance of our everyday narratives to build a community of care and a just world for the next generation.
Speakers:
Nainy Sahani
Kathy Tafel
TALK: THE SECRET OF GAME MUSIC: WHAT EVERY CREATOR SHOULD KNOW
TIME: 4:55 – 5:25 pm
Game music isn’t just background noise. In this talk, sound futurist and interactive media veteran Dani Valkova reveals how music in games doesn’t just enhance mood – it can shape cognition, regulate stress, and transform how players feel, focus, and play.
Whether you’re a developer, designer, or student, you’ll learn how to use music as a core part of your design process, not just as decoration. We’ll explore how neuroscience meets interactive audio, and why composers should be involved from the very beginning of development. Come away with fresh insight into how music can make your gaming projects more emotionally resonant, immersive, and more impactful.
Speaker: Dani Valkova
PANEL: PITCH PERFECT: SECURING INVESTMENT FOR YOUR GAME
TIME: 5:35 – 6:35 PM
Navigating the world of game investment can be challenging, but with the right approach, your pitch can make all the difference. In this Pitch Perfect panel discussion, industry experts and seasoned investors will share their insights on how to craft a compelling pitch that resonates with potential backers. From developing a strong narrative to presenting your game’s market potential and financial strategy, this panel will cover the key elements of a successful pitch. Whether you’re an indie developer, studio founder, or newcomer, you’ll gain valuable tips and strategies to improve your pitch and secure the funding you need to bring your game to life. Join us for an engaging conversation that will help you perfect your pitch and make a lasting impression on investors.
Speakers:
Astrid Refstrup
Bibbi Wikman
Marina Díez
SESSIONS OF 2024
TALK: FINDING PASSION IN GAMING – AND SUSTAIN IT
TIME: 10:15 – 10:45 am
Working in Gaming means meeting a lot of people that share the same passion VIDEO GAMES. While this passion is a strong driver for collaboration and innovation in the field, it can be difficult to keep up – especially in these challenging times the industry is facing. Maxi will share her experience and tips for finding a balance that helped her stay passionate and maintain a healthy work relationship.
Speaker: Maxi Graeff
PANEL: NAVIGATING THE PATH TO FOUNDING YOUR OWN STUDIO
TIME: 11 am – 12 pm
Join us for a dynamic panel discussion where industry experts share their insights on founding and growing a gaming studio. Our panelists will offer practical advice and lessons learned from their own journeys. Whether you’re an aspiring indie developer or a seasoned professional, this discussion will provide invaluable perspectives and inspiration.
Speakers:
Valentina Birke
Ina Goering
Melanie Fussenegger
Sofia Saa
Serenad Yilmaz
WORKSHOP: STRATEGIES FOR ADDRESSING SEXUAL HARASSMENT
TIME: 11 am – 12 pm
In this workshop, criminologist Kristina guides the participants through practical strategies and techniques for navigating inappropriate situations in the workplace and at industry events. Participants will learn to recognize and respond to signs of sexual violence and harassment and how to address inappropriate behavior and setting boundaries as well as the importance of bystander intervention and fostering a culture of accountability.
Speaker: Kristina Straßburger
TALK: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY: DISCOVERING MY VOICE IN THE GAMING WORLD
TIME: 1- 1:45 pm
Join JustBecci on an adventurous journey into the world of gaming and influencing. Without role models and often on her own, she took her first steps, learning from mistakes along the way. Discover how she overcame obstacles and found her own voice. An inspiring story of perseverance, creativity, and the courage to forge your own path.
Speaker: Rebecca “JustBecci” Raschun
WORKSHOP: HOW TO SELL YOUR NEXT PROMOTION OR SALARY RAISE
TIME: 1 – 1:45 pm
Do you often miss out on promotions or salary raises? Do you find yourself waiting for this conversation to happen with your manager? It’s time to take ownership of your career and be strategic about your next promotion and raise. In this workshop, Sophie will share step-by-step communication techniques on how to approach the conversation with your manager so that your career’s next steps become a reality.
Speaker: Sophie Vo
PANEL: WORKING AT RIOT: THE DIVERSITY OF JOBS IN ESPORTS
TIME: 2 – 3 pm
Esports is more than just players and coaches. Hundreds of people are involved every year to bring world class events to live. They negotiate with sponsors, coordinate dates with the venues or make sure players are actually fed. During this panel you hear from 3 amazing women who work at Riot Games and without whom some of those events would not happen the way they do.
WORKSHOP: PARTNERING UP WITH A PUBLISHER – The Dragon in Front of the Gate Problem
TIME: 2 – 3 pm
Learn with Jenni how to navigate the decision to partner with a publisher can be daunting. This workshop will address common misconceptions about publishers, explore what a publisher can and can’t do for your game, and provide insights on how to find the right publishing partner. Join Jenni to gain a clear understanding of the publisher’s role and learn strategies to make informed decisions for your game’s success.
Speaker: Jenni Wergin
TALK: SUCCESS FACTOR CONFIDENCE – From Self-Awareness to a Growth Mindset
TIME: 3 – 3:45 pm
In this talk, we will begin with the foundation of self-awareness to develop confidence, explore motivation, and harness it for professional growth. We will also navigate feedback strategies and then finally get into growth mindset, showing how it transforms challenges into opportunities and fosters continuous learning, in order to support your professional growth. This talk aims to equip you with practical insights and tools to thrive with greater self-awareness, improved communication, and an empowered growth mindset. The 3 main topics we want to cover in our talk is Self awareness, Feedback skills and Growth Mindset.
WORKSHOP: MINDFULNESS BREAK
TIME: 3 – 4 pm
In this mindfulness break, Gabrielė will lead you through one of the core Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) practices — sitting meditation. You are welcome to participate whether you are a regular meditator or want to try it for the first time, as there is definitely something for all levels of experience.
Speaker: Gabrielė Jurkonytė
TALK: WHY YOUR GAME SOUNDS MEDIOCRE – the magic skill of giving meaningful feedback to your audio designer
TIME: 4 – 4:45 pm
We live in a very visually focused world, despite our ears being the much more precise instruments. Mostpeople learn to distinguish and describe colours and their gradients, shapes, light and dark as kids but lotsof people struggle to articulate the way they feel about audio.I will give the audience some dos and don’ts, establish guidelines for how to approach talking aboutsound and then we will dive into this topic together and create clouds of useful words and associations tocommunicate with the audio professionals on your team.
Speaker: Almut Schwacke
PANEL: GAMING IN BRANDENBURG: EXPLORING OPPORTUNITIES BEYOND BERLIN’S BORDERS
TIME: 5 – 6 pm
Join us for a panel discussion on the game scene in Brandenburg, Germany. While Berlin often takes the spotlight, our panelists will delve into the unique advantages and what’s going on in Brandenburg. From industries on-site, gaming programs and resources to the support ecosystem, we’ll explore what works well in Brandenburg. Whether you’re considering starting your own studio or seeking to expand your presence in the German game industry, this discussion promises valuable insights and actionable strategies for navigating the landscape beyond the capital city.
Speakers:
Fernanda Lange Boettcher
Katja Bäuerle
Mafalda Duarte
Julianne Becker
ABOUT THE ORGANIZER
We come from Kreuzberg, Berlin, and develop brands, curate programs and execute them on-site. It’s like thinking with a thousand heads and speaking with a thousand mouths. Online networks, start-ups, developers, politics, media and cultural leaders come and listen. We are experts for Kickstarter. We do love this shit.
Herausgeber:
Booster Space Events & Consulting GmbH
V.i.S.d.P.: Michael Liebe, CEO
Oranienstr. 37
10999 Berlin
Registration: HRB 154151
Amtsgericht Charlottenburg