Devcember Industry Stars: Industry Mentors

This Devcember we are highlighting the Industry Stars that truly shine.

Today we are celebrating those who act as mentors to others in this industry. Offering your time, support and expertise to those looking to enter the industry, improve upon a skill, or navigate the challenging climate we face in games right now, is invaluable.

Let’s be honest, working in games comes with a hefty workload at times, not to mention an increased risk of burnout. Everyone who has offered mentorship over the last couple of years deserves to be celebrated (so if that’s you, please know that we value you and appreciate you so much). During a time where so many of us are dealing with so much uncertainty around job security, or are struggling to find new opportunities, having someone to talk it through with is a game-changer.

Mentors make such a difference. Let’s get to know our Industry Stars in mentorship a little better…

Amir Satvat

Amir speaks openly and empathetically about the current situation surrounding layoffs and redundancies, offering their experitise in resources and opportunities to help others find work in the games industry. Known for collating these valuable resources and information packs on his website in 6 categories of support, Amir continues to impress the community and industry with his enthusiasm and passion for mentoring others into meaningful jobs.

“I’ve never seen anyone care more about the people who need the most caring for during these brutal years for employees in the games industry.”

Sally Shepherd

Sally combines her expertise and commitment to making the games industry a better place, creating a powerful work ethic amongst her team and peers. A supportive mentor, dedicated teacher and lecturer, Sally is using her voice to uplift and inspire students. She is the person people go to for advice, and for good reason!

“Sally isn’t in it for the spotlight; she’s motivated by a love for the work and a genuine desire to make a real difference.”

Hollie Page

Hollie is known for having already made waves in the games industry since joining in 2022, having already earned recognition for their work in diversity, equity and inclusion. Hollie uses their position and voice to empower marginalised voices, having already raised money for Mermaids, mentored talent through ‘Search for a Star’, and hosted round tables with Grads in Games. Hollie has been recognised for their passion and advocacy through being in the IG50 in 2022, an Into Games Diversity Champion, and being selected for the Impact Cohort for 2024.

“Whether volunteering as a programming assessor or speaking on Into Games panels, Hollie consistently uplifts others and exemplifies the power of passion and advocacy in driving progress. Hollie is a shining example of what it means to lead with creativity and heart. I am proud to nominate them as a Rising Star.”

Tara Mustapha

Tara is a loud and proud advocate of making the games industry a more equitable place, bringing marginalised developers to centre stage and campaigning for fairer treatment across the board. At Code Coven, Tara helps hundreds of marginalised developers grow and develop their skills, sharing knowledge through internal and external networks.

“She has created a work environment where I feel heard, supported, and appreciated…which isn’t something I’ve experienced before as a disabled worker. Despite an incredibly difficult year for games, I feel as though I have truly achieved something in games and that is thanks to the support and opportunities afforded to me by Tara.”

Devcember is all about celebrating incredible talent and individuals within the games industry, including mentors like Tara, Hollie, Amir and Sally. These four are a shining example of excellence in games, and we hope it inspires others to be a positive force in the wider community.

Stay tuned for more industry stars this month on the our latest news page!