Women in Games International Atlanta Chapter Opening in January

Deborah Thomas, CEO and President of Silly Monkey, LLC (a training company specializing in training games and business simulations) and President of the Georgia Game Developers Association (GGDA), plans to launch the first chapter of Women In Gaming International (WIGI) in the Eastern United States by convening the first meeting at Battle & Brew Food and Games, 279 Powers Ferry Road - Suite H, Marietta, Georgia on January 16, 2012.

Women In Games International is made up of both female and male professionals working to promote the "inclusion and advancement of women in the global games industry." WIGI promotes diversity in all areas of video game development and advocates on behalf of women and men for better work/life balance, healthy work conditions, increased opportunities and career support resources. The organization believes that "increased equality and camaraderie among genders can make global impacts..."

The Atlanta-meetings are scheduled for every third Monday of the month beginning January 16. Sponsors will host a meeting once quarterly on a revolving basis. So far, Battle & Brew and the Knowledge Development Center (KDC) in the Perimeter Center are confirmed sponsors. A midtown Atlanta location is currently being negotiated. Members will participate in learning events and receive a quarterly informational newsletter produced by O'Neill Communications.

Deborah Thomas will serve as the Atlanta Chapter Lead, while Roman James of O'Neill Communications will serve as the director of marketing and communications.

You can find out more about WIGI by visiting www.womeningamesinternational.org.