HBCU Game Jam at Spelman College

In April, Zynga demonstrated its commitment to fostering talent and diversity in the gaming industry by sponsoring the HBCU Game Jam hosted by Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. Drawing nine Zyngites from various parts of North America, this event marked the second year of the HBCU Game Jam, which drew participation from over 120 students representing multiple historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) including Spelman College, North Carolina A&T, Clark Atlanta, Morehouse College, and Howard University. Zynga team members played a pivotal role in supporting these students throughout the intense game-building process, offering workshops and mentoring sessions to assist students as they collaborated in teams. For many students, this was their maiden voyage into the world of video game development, marking a significant milestone.

Following a grueling 20-hour game jam, participant creativity and dedication was showcased as 24 teams presented their final game builds in an exciting expo. Judges and attendees alike eagerly explored the diverse array of game concepts and engaged with the creations, fostering an atmosphere of innovation and celebration. The event was punctuated by a closing keynote delivered by Chris Garlington during the awards ceremony, underscoring the significance of initiatives like the HBCU Game Jam in nurturing talent and fostering inclusivity within the gaming community. With Zynga’s active involvement and the enthusiastic participation of students from across HBCUs, the event showcased the creativity and potential of emerging game developers while also serving as a testament to the importance of diversity and collaboration in driving the future of the gaming industry.