For many aspiring developers, breaking into the games industry feels like trying to push open a locked door. For James Vials, winning the IG50 was the moment that door opened. Previously a bartender and customer operations advisor, James attended the University of South Wales to explore his passion for Games design. But after graduating, he needed an extra boost to get that first role in the industry. And so he applied to the IG50. What stood out most to James from winning the IG50 wasn’t just the recognition, but the volume of support that followed. “The networking opportunities and rewards were incredible,” he says. The IG50 provides opportunities for winners to attend events and make crucial introductions, ensuring industry moments are accessible to all. Crucially, the IG50 is about getting people that first step in the door for the industry. So, what effect has this had for James? “The biggest achievement was being able to finally get my foot in the door within the games industry,” he reflects. James landed his first industry role as a Support Technician for Multiplay at Rocket Science. Looking back, James credits his progress not just to the opportunities offered, but to saying yes to them. His advice to future applicants would be “Take every opportunity you can. If you aren’t sure you want to go to an event, go anyways! Jump into every opportunity that comes up as they have all been amazing and fun.”