TIME: 10:45 AM – 11:45 AM

TIME: 10:55 AM – 11:55 PM

TIME: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

TIME: 12:00 PM – 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.

TIME: 12:00 PM – 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.

TIME: 12:40 PM – 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.

TIME: 2:15 PM – 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.

TIME: 2:15 PM – 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.

TIME: 3:00 PM – 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.

TIME: 3:00 PM – 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 Langer, 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.

TIME: 4:00 PM – 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.

TIME: 4:00 PM – 6:00 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.

TIME: 4:55 PM – 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.

TIME: 5:35 PM – 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.