Diversity in the Metaverse
This panel tackles the topic of diversity in the Metaverse. The Metaverse is a hot topic right now which has many people wondering both what it is, and more importantly, what it will look like in the future for immersive media experiences. As a unique space for social interaction, engagement and connection, it’s essential that we address the importance of representation and accessibility during its time of infancy. Our goal is to discuss not only the current scenario in virtual and augmented reality worlds, but also the consequences and challenges of building a diverse Metaverse by taking into account design, content, marketing, and the various barriers faced by different communities across the globe.
![]() | Mmuso Mafisa (South Africa) He is one of the country’s most recognised photographer, filmmaker, and digital innovation specialist at the cusp of 4th Industrial Revolution. As a former council member for the NFT Marketplace, Artano, his task was to select some of the most talented artists to participate in the regenerative economy. Mafisa’s vision on this front is financial inclusion for artists and the youth from the underserved communities, achieving this with exposure to digital assets, emerging markets, and the provision of unique opportunities to merge Distributed Ledger Technology, Art and Web Monetization |
![]() | Nina Salomons (United Kingdom) A firm diversity and inclusion advocate, she’s led the VR and XR diversity Initiatives. To avoid pre-existing problems in film, television, gaming and technology both initiatives focus on making immersive technology accessible and democratic for everybody from the onset. She continues to advocate a safe and ethical space as VR moves online. She is currently working on bringing VR into prisons for rehabilitation and training as well as consulting for companies such as ImmerseUK and Digital Catapult to grow and diversify immersive companies. She continues to make films both 2D and in VR. |
![]() | Micaela Mantegu (Argentina) An activist of gaming as an instrument of social change, she is founder and board member of Women In Games Argentina (WIGAr), a non-profit working towards a more inclusive gaming industry; and a Women in Games International (WIGJ) Ambassador. |
![]() | Krystal Cooper (USA) Creative Technical Professional with 13+ years of experience in the Media, Entertainment & Technology industry. Krystal Cooper, Visual Effects: X: First Class. Krystal Cooper is known for her work on X: First Class (2011), The A-Team (2010) and State of Play (2009). |