Today is International Women’s Day, a day when we celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, while also reaffirming our commitment to improving gender equality.
International Women’s Day has different meaning to different people, so we asked several women at Guerrilla what it means to them, and what their message is for the next generation who wish to enter the games industry.
To Principal Outsourcing Producer Diana Torrejon, International Women’s Day is a reminder — “of the work left to do.” “One day is not enough, but it’s start,” she adds. Quest Designer Idris Grey MacChruiteir sees it as a reminder as well: “to ourselves and the rest of the world — that we are as much a part of our industries and communities as anyone else. It’s a day to take stock of how much things have changed, and how many changes still need to be made.“
For Talent Acquisition Coordinator Zoe Beynon, it’s also a day of celebration and recognition. “It provides recognition to achievements and strengths, and not just by other women, but by all gender identities,” she says. Cinematics Producer Tara Moon Christopher elaborates: “By taking notice of each other’s accomplishments and companionship, we not only can find ways to grow both together and independently, but can also learn how to share our stories.”
Character Artist Deborah Depenbrock sees International Women’s Day as a day “to be aware of the women in a still relatively male-dominated field, and to also raise the question why this is.” The message she would like to give the next generation of women who want to work in such a field? “Live your truth and don’t let anyone tell you you can’t.”
After all, a career isn’t just about achieving greatness and earning money. “It’s about improving the quality of your life,” says Talent Acquisition Business Partner Riem Halawani. “It’s so important to enjoy what you’re doing and that a job should be able to make you happy and motivated every day.”
Luckily, VFX Artist Celine de Wijs finds that “this industry is just as excited for you to join as you are. There are many people who would like to help you every step of the way.” Her advice to women looking to join: “reach out to people in the industry if you have any questions, especially if you are still studying/learning to be a game developer.”
Cinematics Producer Mary-Louise van Driessche has one final piece of advice: “When in doubt, channel your inner Aloy!”
We hope you have a wonderful International Women’s Day. If you’d like to work at Guerrilla too, click here for an overview of current job openings!
