Leo Olebe Assumes Leadership at Games for Change
New Direction for Social Impact Organization
Games for Change has announced that Leo Olebe will take the helm as the new chair of its board of directors, steering the nonprofit organization dedicated to leveraging games and media for social progress.
Professional Background and Transition
Simultaneously, Olebe retains his position as vice president of global partnerships at Xbox. He takes over from Asi Burak, who has served a commendable decade in leadership, advocating social impact through gaming, and will continue to contribute as a board member.
A Commendable Legacy in Gaming Advocacy
Under Burak’s guidance, Games for Change flourished. His tenure witnessed significant milestones including award-winning initiatives such as Half the Sky Movement Games. The program was geared towards amplifying awareness regarding women’s rights based on the acclaimed book by Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn.
Innovative Initiatives Making Waves
In recent activities during its 20th anniversary in 2023, Games for Change organized an evocative event showcasing powerful influencers within social impact gaming. This included Cameron Kostopoulos presenting his transformative work on “Body of Mine,” which addresses body dysphoria—an experience many face when there is a disconnect between their physical appearance and gender identity.
Additionally, participants experienced a guided tour of iconic UN spaces like the Security Council chambers while learning about influential charity creator Benjamin “DrLupo” Lupo’s efforts that raised over $14 million for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
Elevating Voices Through Game Design
Throughout his extensive career—spanning more than 20 years—allied with some of entertainment’s leading corporations (YouTube Gaming Chief Global Officer; Managing Director at Google Games), Olebe champions educational reforms emphasizing inclusivity within STEM sectors while fostering innovative partnerships that elevate narrative storytelling through interactive media.
His recent interaction with Lual Mayen—a self-taught game developer from South Sudan who overcame adversities faced in refugee camps—underscored his dedication to uplifting marginalized voices within gaming communities.
Continuing Growth Amidst Transition
As he steps into this pivotal role at such an eminent organization known globally for orchestrating impactful collaborations with academia and NGOs alike, Olebe aims to harness creative potential towards fostering narratives rooted in social change.
Susanna Pollack praised both Burak’s instrumental role in shaping G4C into its current stature as well as expressing confidence that Olebe possesses the strategic insight necessary to build upon this firm foundation towards even greater outreach.
“Games For Change stands out due to its extensive collaboration opportunities on international scales across various sectors,” noted Olebe upon accepting this honorary role emphatically stressing collective aspirations toward radical positive shifts worldwide through united efforts involving universities or humanitarian organizations committed entirely to game-informed solutions affecting real-world situations.”
As he embarks on this exciting venture alongside Pollack and former colleagues from G4C who have collectively contributed enormously throughout development phases thus far—the legacy bequeathed by Burak ensures there’s tremendous potential ahead not only sustaining but enhancing life-changing contributions across digital narratives tailored efficiently completed by future generations yet begin crafting now!
Leadership Transition at Games for Change: A New Era Begins
Celebrating Achievements and Embracing Change
Asi Burak, who held the position of chair for Games for Change (G4C) over the past decade, reflected on the organization’s transformative journey. He expressed immense pride in Susanna Pollack’s leadership and the milestones achieved by their team during his tenure. “As we navigate this pivotal transition,” Burak stated, “I couldn’t be more pleased with what Susanna Pollack and our dedicated team have accomplished. G4C has significantly influenced not only the gaming landscape but also positively impacted countless players globally. Our collaboration with Leo Olebe as a board member has been fruitful, and I firmly believe he is exceptionally qualified to lead us into this new phase where games play an increasingly vital role in society.”
Olebe Takes the Helm
Leo Olebe officially stepped into his role as board chair on February 6, 2025. He will collaborate closely with G4C’s leadership team and board to broaden its international initiatives. Notable new members who recently joined the board include Mark Stanley, Founder of Strategic Gaming Collective; Samir El Agili, CEO of Brandible Games; and Ben Golant from TenCent Americas.
Pioneering Change Through Gaming
Since its inception in 2004, Games for Change has been at the forefront of empowering game developers to harness their craft for societal betterment—creating interactive experiences aimed at education and community enhancement. Through alliances with various tech firms, non-profits, foundations, and government bodies, G4C facilitates high-caliber events like public arcades and design competitions while nurturing youth-centric programs around the globe.
A Call to Action from Olebe
Olebe shared insights about his long-standing involvement with G4C during a recent interview: “I’ve been engaged with this incredible organization that champions real change through gaming for nearly ten years now.” His initial keynote speech was delivered in 2019 under the title “Building a Better Gaming Community,” wherein he emphasized how gaming fosters connectivity among individuals.
In June 2020—amidst significant global challenges due to COVID-19—Olebe delivered a talk titled “Games Can Heal The World,” celebrating how gamers contributed resources toward relief efforts worldwide. By late 2022? he further elaborated on making opportunities accessible through games via his presentation called “Games Matter; You Matter.” His continued engagement culminated last year when he discussed these themes concerning community impact within an evolving gamer culture.
Decision Factors Behind Leadership Role
When asked about stepping into his new position as chairperson of G4C’s board now rather than later: “My passion piques every day thanks to my love for gaming,” stated Olebe excitedly. “The industry profoundly shaped my lifetime experiences along with friendships that genuinely matter.” He sees community building as fundamental within gaming—a view reinforced by Burak’s exemplary guidance throughout his previous chairmanship—a testament that brings motivation towards navigating future possibilities within this transformative field.
The Impact of Gaming on Social Progression
On social accountability via games? Notably responded by him was affirmative recognition: ”The sector already plays crucial roles driving economic openings while also connecting individuals across continents—we’re teaching indispensable skills together.” Still retaining ambitions ahead? His own adage resonates deeply here: “Inclusivity is key! Let’s amplify voices instead of drowning them out!” As burgeoning platforms evolve alongside technological advancements—the opportunities expand exponentially; allow it facilitate spaces where every person shines brightly among peers they cherish most.
Looking Ahead With Optimism
What excites him about leading such an impactful organization? In noting current trends within immersive media contextually influencing societal perceptions—his outlook reflects heartfelt promise surrounding collaborative potentials yet unrealized wholly speaks volumes about aspirations waiting merely beneath surface potentiality readying themselves worthy readiness moving forward!
Games For Change embarks upon vibrant emerging trajectory poised embark upon enlarged realms excitement supported visionaries taking helm reinvigorating mission communal ethos synonymous core values igniting tomorrow brighter days reaching beyond borders uncharted elevating game-changing contributions transformation awaits embrace generational progress sustained resilience shared humanity demonstrated capacity envisioning tomorrow beckons call—all founded pillars established principled integrity anchored necessary structures uphold unity connection growth benefiting future global citizenries importantly remain championed unabashedly!
Harnessing the Power of Gaming for Social Change
Embracing Innovation and Community
In our rapidly evolving digital landscape, innovations in technology are continually redefining creativity and expression. With each advancement, we acquire new skills while reimagining traditional norms. What captivates me most in this domain is the existence of over three billion gaming enthusiasts globally who revel in the sheer pleasure of gaming. This vast community possesses an extraordinary potential to instigate positive transformations within their locales. If there’s one thing that’s certain, we’re only scratching the surface of what’s possible. In my current capacity, I am eager to support Susanna’s vision as we broaden our outreach to engage with more individuals, universities, and organizations around the world.
Similarities Between My Roles at Xbox and Games for Change
When asked about parallels with my responsibilities at Microsoft,
Indeed! My position at Xbox centers on empowering game developers across the globe to realize their aspirations—transforming visions into reality. Similarly, my involvement with Games for Change mirrors this mission; it’s all about assisting individuals, organizations, studios, and academic institutions in making their dreams tangible while fostering connections that lead to meaningful impact. Fundamentally speaking, I consider myself a gamer at heart who thrives on building networks; thus these roles complement one another beautifully.
Daily Responsibilities: Facilitating Creativity and Building Bridges
So what does a typical day look like for me at Microsoft?
My daily engagements revolve around uplifting game creators while establishing transformative collaborations. On some days I’ll be scouting for fresh gaming talent; on others I might be addressing technical hurdles that arise within projects. Xbox provides players with seamless access to beloved games across various devices—whether it’s through consoles or portable gadgets—allowing an effortless transition from one platform to another. Currently engage several titles daily; I’m diving into Diablo 4 across four different screens! This season has me experimenting as a Master-worked Bone Spear Necromancer—but I’m only navigating Paragon level 128 currently—which means there’s still plenty left on my quest list!
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