Activision Blizzard Partners with Code First Girls to Empower Women and Non-Binary People in Tech

In a groundbreaking move to foster diversity and inclusion in the technology and gaming sectors, Activision Blizzard has announced a strategic alliance with Code First Girls. This partnership is set to create substantial opportunities for women and non-binary individuals, aiming to equip them with the skills necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving fields of technology and gaming. This initiative underscores Activision Blizzard’s commitment to creating environments where everyone can thrive and feel included, both within the company and in the wider gaming community.

The gaming industry is experiencing exponential growth, with over three billion gamers worldwide. As the industry continues to expand, it’s crucial for gaming companies to ensure their teams reflect the diverse perspectives of their audience. Activision Blizzard recognizes that by fostering diverse teams, they can create games that resonate more deeply with a global audience.

A Commitment to Inclusive Education

Through this partnership, Activision Blizzard is sponsoring placements in the annual CFGdegree programs offered by Code First Girls. These programs are designed to provide free education and skills training in critical areas such as Software Engineering, Data, Full Stack Development, and Product Management. By supporting these streams, Activision Blizzard hopes to mentor and prepare participants for successful careers in technology and gaming.

Recent data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Annual Population Survey highlights a significant gender disparity in the UK tech industry, with women representing only 22% of IT professionals, including those in cyber security and software development. This partnership with Code First Girls is an effort to bridge this gap, offering local communities of women the opportunity to develop essential technical skills at no cost, thereby breaking down barriers and promoting gender equality in the tech and gaming sectors.

Voices from the Partnership

Karen Venn, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) EMEA lead at Activision Blizzard, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration with Code First Girls. She stated, "We’re thrilled to collaborate with Code First Girls to champion female and non-binary talent in the tech and gaming industry. Our collaboration has already impacted over 750 students through individual classes, advancing our overarching goal of creating a more inclusive future for gaming where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued."

Anna Brailsford of Code First Girls added, "Code First Girls is on a mission to close the gender gap in the tech industry by providing employment through free education. We’ve already helped more than 200,000 women learn to code and by working with companies globally, like Activision Blizzard, we’re boosting employability, diversity, and social mobility, transforming local economies and communities."

Application Details and Opportunities

The CFGdegree program for Autumn 2024 is now accepting applications, with the deadline set for June 28th at 5 PM BST. This program presents an exceptional opportunity for women and non-binary individuals to gain the skills and knowledge needed to excel in fields such as software engineering, data analytics, and cybersecurity. Eligible candidates based in the UK are strongly encouraged to apply, taking the first step toward a fulfilling career in technology and gaming. Interested individuals can apply through the following link: https://codefirstgirls.com/courses/cfgdegree/.

Building a More Inclusive Gaming Industry

Activision Blizzard’s dedication to inclusion is not just a corporate slogan; it is a core part of their strategy to drive meaningful change in the gaming industry. By partnering with Code First Girls, Activision Blizzard is demonstrating a commitment to fostering a more inclusive industry. The company believes that by empowering talent from diverse backgrounds, they can create better games and build a more vibrant community.

This partnership is more than just an educational opportunity; it is a step toward a more inclusive future where everyone has a place. Activision Blizzard and Code First Girls are leading the charge in transforming the landscape of the tech and gaming industries, ensuring that they are inclusive and reflective of the diverse world we live in.

The Importance of Diverse Perspectives in Gaming

In the modern era, gaming is more than just entertainment; it is a cultural phenomenon that influences millions of lives around the globe. As such, the creation and development of games should involve a multitude of perspectives to ensure that the final products are inclusive and representative of the global audience. Diverse teams bring varied experiences and ideas, which can lead to more innovative and engaging games.

Moreover, having a workforce that reflects the diversity of the gaming community can help companies understand and anticipate the needs and desires of their audience, fostering a deeper connection between players and games. It is this understanding that drives Activision Blizzard’s commitment to diversity and inclusion within their teams.

The Broader Impact of the Partnership

The partnership between Activision Blizzard and Code First Girls is poised to have a far-reaching impact. By providing free education and training to women and non-binary individuals, the initiative is not only helping to close the gender gap in the tech industry but also promoting social mobility and economic development. As more individuals gain access to education and career opportunities, local communities stand to benefit from increased economic activity and diversity in the workforce.

This collaboration is also a testament to the potential of industry partnerships in driving social change. By working together, companies and organizations can leverage their resources and expertise to create meaningful opportunities for underrepresented groups, paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive society.

Conclusion

The partnership between Activision Blizzard and Code First Girls marks a significant milestone in the journey toward greater diversity and inclusion in the tech and gaming industries. By providing women and non-binary individuals with the education and skills needed to succeed in these fields, the initiative is helping to create a more inclusive future where everyone can belong and thrive.

As the gaming industry continues to grow and evolve, initiatives like this will play a crucial role in shaping its future. By empowering diverse talent and fostering an inclusive environment, Activision Blizzard and Code First Girls are not only building a better industry but also creating a more vibrant and connected community for all.

For more information on the CFGdegree program and how to apply, please visit https://codefirstgirls.com/courses/cfgdegree/.

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