Diversity Shines as a Core Strength in the Games Industry
Diversity and inclusivity are rapidly gaining momentum as central tenets within the gaming industry — a sentiment echoed fervently by Suvi Latva, a prominent figure driving these values forward. At the recent Pocket Gamer Connects Helsinki, amidst the celebration of the Aurora awards, Latva emphasized the industry’s unique ability to blend creativity, innovation, and technology in an environment that welcomes diversity.
Championing Inclusivity: The Voice of Suvi Latva
Suvi Latva, chief business advisor at Neogames Finland and a board member of We in Games Finland, has dedicated her career to fostering an inclusive atmosphere in the gaming world. She participated actively in the Aurora awards, which celebrated influential women and non-binary individuals in the Nordic games sector. During the event, Latva highlighted the importance of recognizing contributors based not on gender or ethnicity but on skills and achievements. “Game dev culture is full of diverse, shy, quirky, and brilliant people. It’s one of the best things about it. You can be odd and still belong entirely – as long as you respect others,” she stated.
For Latva, the gaming industry represents more than just technological advancements; it is an ecosystem that thrives on unconventional thinking and inclusivity. Latva passionately believes that kindness, curiosity, and a willingness to learn are attributes that the industry should cherish and expand upon to maintain its edge.
A Maturing Industry: Embracing Comprehensive Diversity
The past five years have marked a period of growth and maturation for the gaming industry, especially concerning diversity awareness. Latva notes that the sector has become more inclusive, not just in terms of gender equality but also considering neurodiversity and other realms. However, she cautions against creating divisions within the industry, urging all stakeholders to focus on shared goals — to develop great games and build meaningful careers within a positive community.
Providing advice to women entering the industry, Latva emphasizes the importance of concentrating on personal skills and contributions without feeling constrained by gender. “Gender is not a limit – don’t even let that thought in. Focus on your skills, where you want to be, what you want to do, and who you are as a person,” Latva advises.
Suvi Latva’s Contributions to Finland’s Gaming Landscape
Among Latva’s notable achievements are her efforts in establishing game industry ecosystems in Oulu and Tampere, Finland, as well as organizing Finland’s first Pocket Gamer event. In 2016, she led Finland’s first China market research project for the gaming industry, underscoring her strategic vision and commitment to expanding the industry’s global impact.
Latva’s journey reflects the blend of innovation, intuition, and openness to learning that she recommends for success in the sector. She advocates for being brave yet humble, always ready to ask questions and learn from seasoned industry veterans.
Local Impact: A Growing Dialogue on Diversity
The dialogue on diversity and inclusivity, as championed by figures like Latva, is increasingly significant for communities beyond the Nordic region — including American gaming hubs. In the United States, where discussions on diversity and representation in the gaming industry are gaining traction, the Nordic example serves as a compelling model for building inclusive environments that prioritize talent over identity.
Jane Roland, a diversity expert within the U.S. gaming sector, notes the resonance of this dialogue. “Understanding that diversity enhances creativity and broadens perspectives is crucial. The industry in the U.S. can learn a lot from Finland’s progress in these areas,” Roland remarks. The insights from events like Pocket Gamer Connects Helsinki pivot the global conversation towards strategic inclusivity, offering fresh perspectives for local developers, publishers, and community leaders committed to diversity goals.
Future Implications: Transcending Borders
The impact of enhanced diversity awareness goes beyond fostering a welcoming environment; it supports the creation of immersive and innovative gaming experiences that can reach broader audiences. This awareness is essential in both building robust industry ecosystems and enhancing community interest. Latva’s advocacy for unity and non-divisiveness provides a blueprint for global and local entities aiming to foster growth through diversity.
With an increasing number of industry leaders recognizing the power of diverse teams, the path forward seems promising. By embracing diversity, the gaming industry not only strengthens its creative output but also solidifies its role as a progressive force in technology and entertainment.
For more information and to join the discussion on how diversity is reshaping the gaming industry, local community members in the U.S. can reach out to organizations like Women in Games International (WIGI) and connect with forums dedicated to diversifying gaming spaces.
As the industry continues to evolve, the lessons and principles instilled by champions like Suvi Latva will remain pivotal in guiding the cultural and strategic trajectories of the gaming world.
