Name: Michael Koiku

Pronouns: He/Him

Location: Toronto, Ontario

Job Title: Software Engineer 1 (Games With Friends Engineering Team)

What does it mean to you to be a person of color in technology and gaming?

As a Nigerian man with roots from Benin Republic and a proud love for Yoruba and Latin American cultures, being a person of color in technology and gaming is as unique and multi-faceted as I am. My wealth of shared diverse experiences and perspectives inform and influence how I contribute and relate to the technology and gaming industry.

What is it like being diverse in gaming?

It’s amazing being diverse in gaming. Variety is the spice of life as they say, hahaha. My uniqueness and multifacetedness empower me to make impactful contributions that encapsulate a wide range of audiences while continuing to learn from different viewpoints and perspectives.

What is Zynga doing to empower persons of color in the workplace?

With resources such as ZERGs, mentorship, inclusive workplace environment and no limit to acquiring information at Zynga, I as a person of color feel empowered everyday to contribute to Zynga’s very high standard of software engineering, work ethic, company culture, and mission to connect the world through games and social gaming experiences for all people.