TV presenter Julia Hardy to host the Women in Games Awards

Popular games presenter and media personality Julia Hardy will host this year’s MCV’s Women in Games Awards.

Hardy has just been announced as the presenter of Radio 1’s new monthly video games show and has a great deal of experience in hosting TV shows and events.

Her CV includes presenting duties for the BAFTA Games Awards for Challenge TV, hosting the Worldwide Minecraft Convention, presenting Videogame Nation and reporting on gaming and technology news for Sky.

I’m supremely honoured to be asked to host the MCV Women in Games Awards this year,” said Hardy. There are so many incredible women working tirelessly in what is a very male dominated field, so it’s a real joy to have the chance to support and recognise all their passion to help make gaming the incredible and varied entertainment medium that it is.

I’m especially excited to see who wins the Rising Star award, as it’s a great chance to inspire future Women in Games to get involved and not let anything hold them back from following their passion.”

The MCV Women In Games event, which is co-hosted by the Women in Games (WIGJ) body takes place at the Hamyard Hotel, London on Thursday May 19th.

Returning this year after a successful debut in 2015, the Women in Games Awards will see us searching for the Top 30 Women in Games, whilst also introducing six special categories:-

Rising Star – This category recognises a leading up-and-coming talent from any sector of the business. The judges expect most nominees to be under 30, but consideration will also be given to women who are new (less than three years) to the industry.

Businesswoman of the Year – An executive who has had a stellar 12 months in terms of driving a company forward and generating significant revenues.

Creative Impact – Recognising talent in games development and design.

Unsung Hero – Honouring the vital support roles in the industry, including QA, community managers, studio managers, PR and HR.

Campaigner – A special award for someone working for or with a games-related charity, or working within a community to use games as a force for change, inclusion, education or improvement.

Outstanding Contribution of the Year – The award will reflect upon the life of someone who has had a lengthy and successful career at the top of the industry, making positive contributions to the commercial success and public profile of the games industry.

The lobbying period for this event is open now and runs until February 17th. Simply email mcvwomen@nbmedia.comwith a brief description of why you, a colleague or peer should be considered.

The MCV and Women in Games teams will then work with a specially selected panel of industry professionals to identify the Top 30 Women from the list of nominations, in addition to voting for the six special awards.

Tickets for the event, which takes place on May 19th at the Hamyard Hotel are priced at just 49 and are available by clicking here.

A limited number of sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Lesley McDiarmid or Conor Tallon to find out more.