The 8th Annual Black in Gaming Awards Honors Black Excellence in the Games Industry…..
Photo credits: Brandi Rollins
San Francisco, CA – March 2025 – The Black in Gaming (BIG) Foundation is proud to announce the 8th Annual BIG Awards, a celebration of Black excellence in the gaming industry. Returning to GDC at the Children’s Creativity Museum in San Francisco, this premier event continues to recognize the outstanding contributions of Black professionals shaping the future of gaming.
Honoring the Best in Black Game Development
With the support of founding sponsor Sony Interactive Entertainment, the BIG Awards remains dedicated to uplifting and recognizing Black talent in the gaming industry. In an era where inclusivity faces ongoing challenges, BIG stands firm in celebrating the leaders and innovators who are making gaming more diverse, accessible, and groundbreaking.
Photo credits: Brandi Rollins
"This event is more than a ceremony—it is a tribute to excellence, creativity, and the groundbreaking contributions of Black professionals in gaming," said Trinidad Hermida Black, Executive Director of the Black in Gaming Foundation.
"Our awards serve as a beacon of inspiration, spotlighting those pushing boundaries and driving innovation. To the entire gaming community: the BIG Awards is a treasure trove of talent and progress. Join us as we celebrate the achievements shaping the future of gaming."
Photo credits: Brandi Rollins
Meet the 2024 BIG Award Winners
Last year’s BIG Awards honored an incredible group of trailblazers, including:
Jerry Lawson Lifetime Achievement Award – Jason Young (Sony Interactive Entertainment)
Industry Champion Award – Mia Ginaé Watkins (Riot Games)
Social and Economic Initiative Award – Tim Staton-Davis (Brass Lion Entertainment)
Image Award – Justin Woodward (Interbang Entertainment & The MIX)
Excellence in Programming Award – Shawn Lee (Visual Concepts Entertainment)
Excellence in Artistry Award – Chase Bethea (Freelance Composer)
Excellence in Media Award – Jay-Ann Lopez (Black Girl Gamers)
Excellence in Performance Award – Nadji Jeter (Voice Actor, Mo-Cap Artist for Miles Morales in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2)
Indie Developer Award – Xalavier Nelson Jr. (Strange Scaffold)
Industry Spotlight Award – Sergio Sykes (Character Technical Director, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2)
Photo credits: Brandi Rollins
Black Fest: Expanding the Celebration
In addition to the awards ceremony, BIG invites GDC attendees to Black Fest, a special showcase featuring panels, game demos, and networking opportunities designed to amplify Black voices in the industry.
Get Involved
Interested in supporting the Black in Gaming Foundation? Become a sponsor, donate, or partner with us!
Sponsorship & General Inquiries: info@blackingaming.org
Media & PR Inquiries: pr@blackingaming.org
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About Black in Gaming (BIG) Foundation
The Black in Gaming Foundation is committed to creating, fostering, and uplifting a more inclusive games industry. Through mentorship, advocacy, and community-building, BIG ensures that Black professionals receive the recognition, support, and opportunities they deserve.
