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New York City, June 27 – 28, 2024 — The Games for Change Festival, the premier event for social impact gaming and XR, has just unveiled its full schedule for this year’s highly anticipated gathering. With world leaders, global gaming innovators, and a dash of deadpan comedy, the Festival promises to be a catalyst for global change.

The 2030 Marker: A Catalyst for Global Change

Inspired by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this year’s theme—aptly named “The 2030 Marker”—sets the stage for exploring how interactive media can drive progress on critical global challenges. From climate action to poverty eradication, the Festival aims to ignite community engagement and push the boundaries of what games and immersive technologies can achieve.

UN Offices Unite

The Festival will host an impressive array of participating UN offices, including the Museum for the UN / UN Live, the World Food Programme, the UN Environment Programme, the International Rescue Committee, and UNICEF. These organizations will kick off the event with an unprecedented roundtable discussion, delving into how interactive media can accelerate progress toward the SDGs.

Gaming: The Future of Well-Being

Poonacha Machaiah, CEO of The Chopra Foundation, will take the stage in a Keynote Fireside chat with G4C President Susanna Pollack. Their session, titled “Gaming: The Future of Well-Being,” promises to explore why the games industry is fertile ground for addressing the silent global mental health crisis. With impeccable timing and wit, they’ll dissect how games can positively impact well-being.

Industry Leaders Converge

The two-day Festival will witness a convergence of industry and civic leaders. Here are some notable names:

• Leanne Loombe (Vice President, External Games, Netflix): Bringing her expertise to the table, Loombe will discuss the intersection of entertainment and social impact.
• Jesse Schell (CEO of Schell Games): Schell’s insights into game design and education will inspire creators.
• Jessica Lindl (Vice President and Global Head of Social Impact / Education at Unity Technologies): Lindl’s vision for using technology to drive positive change will resonate.
• Rebecca Kantar (Vice President of Education, Roblox): Kantar’s passion for education and innovation will be on full display.
• Hugo Obi (Founder at Maliyo Games): Obi’s journey in African game development will captivate the audience.
• Poulomi Basu (Artist, Filmmaker, Author, Activist at Just Another Production Company): Basu’s blend of art and activism will provoke thought.
• Tanya Thompson (Senior Director Inventor Relations, Hasbro): Thompson’s insights into play and invention will spark creativity.

These industry leaders will join previously announced headliners from Minecraft, PBS KIDS, GLAAD, and more. The 21st Games for Change Festival promises a melting pot of ideas, innovation, and impact.

Tickets and Beyond

Regular-priced tickets are available until June 9th on the Games for Change Festival website. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative event.

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About Games for Change

Since 2004, Games for Change (G4C) has been empowering game creators and innovators to drive real-world change. Through games and immersive media, G4C helps people learn, improve their communities, and contribute to making the world a better place. From humanitarian conflicts to climate change and education, G4C supports a global community of game developers committed to tackling real-world challenges. Join the movement and play for change! 🎮🌍