A Young Game Developer Using Gaming for Change
Adaya Head, a 2023 graduate of Central Methodist University, is stepping into the gaming world with purpose. She is not only building her career in technology but also using her skills to raise awareness about climate change. Through interactive storytelling, she shows how gaming can spark important conversations about the planet’s future.
Head founded her own studio, Round One Game, where she leads a team of creators. Together, they are developing projects that blend entertainment with social impact. Her latest game idea uses horror elements in an aquarium setting to highlight the challenges animals face because of human activity.
Climate Change Meets Creative Storytelling
Head’s game design stands out for its originality. Few horror games take place in aquariums, yet she saw the chance to use this space as an educational tool. Aquariums and zoos often teach the public about animals and their struggles, and her game expands on that role. By combining suspense with awareness, she connects players to real environmental issues.
As both lead writer and designer, Head balances creativity with technical demands. She makes sure ideas stay practical for the engineers while keeping the story strong. “The vision matters, but sometimes it has to be scaled down to fit what’s technically possible,” she explained.
Building Community Through Rewriting the Code
Since 2019, Head has been involved with Rewriting the Code, a community for women in tech. This network gave her professional opportunities and a sense of belonging. “It’s been easy to connect with people who share similar interests and backgrounds,” she said. The group hosts events, shares resources, and builds lasting relationships.
Head also highlights the power of community for new developers. She credits the support she receives as motivation to keep going. Staying connected with peers has allowed her to grow both socially and professionally.
Leadership and Teamwork in the Gaming Industry
As team lead at Round One Game, Head focuses on collaboration. She values open communication and ensures her team members feel included in decision-making. “I want to create a better community,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to supportive leadership.
She also helps her team grow their portfolios and prepare for future careers. Many are entry-level developers, and working together offers real-world experience. Her leadership style reflects her belief that collective growth creates stronger outcomes.
Overcoming Challenges as a New Graduate
Breaking into the tech industry has not been easy for Head. She admits interviews were difficult after graduation. Despite many open positions, the competition for roles was tough. Yet she continues to push forward, combining persistence with creativity.
Past projects also shaped her confidence. In 2020, she built a social media app with another engineer as part of a nonprofit class. She went beyond the requirements, teaching herself advanced features through GitHub and Stack Overflow. That extra effort prepared her for bigger challenges.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Tech
Head hopes her story inspires other young women in technology and gaming. She encourages them to find their community, just as she did with Rewriting the Code and Round One Game. She believes strong networks are key for women who want to grow in male-dominated fields.
Her journey reflects a powerful lesson: gaming is not just about fun but also about impact. Through her work, Adaya Head shows that Black women can lead with vision, creativity, and purpose in both technology and activism.
