Jay-Ann Lopez, the award-winning visionary founder of Black Girl Gamers, is a celebrated game-changer. With the esteemed title of Honorary Professor at Norwich University of the Arts and as a BAFTA Games Committee member and judge, she is a powerful force and consultant in the gaming and entertainment industry.

Jay-Ann founded Black Girl Gamers in 2015 at a time when Black women were significantly underserved in gaming. What began as a small online group has since grown into a global community spanning multiple continents, as well as a trusted industry partner and credible public voice, connecting gamers, developers, and creators with opportunities, mentorship, and industry access. Jay-Ann’s impact on gaming has been widely recognised, most recently through her NAACP Image Award nomination in the Gaming/Tech category.

An experienced host and presenter, Jay-Ann has presented for organisations including Ubisoft, Activision, BAFTA, and Afrotech. Known for her ability to connect culture and community, Jay-Ann’s work extends beyond gaming alone. She is the creator of the consistently sold-out Gamer Girls Night In, the world’s first gaming, beauty, and fashion event for women gamers and non-binary players, bringing together gaming, style, and culture. British Vogue recognised her as one of the industry's power players reshaping entertainment, and the Institute of Digital Fashion named her one of the Top 100 Innovators influencing the creative and tech landscape.

In 2023, Jay-Ann was awarded an Honorary Professorship from Norwich University of the Arts in recognition of her leadership in the gaming industry. A sought-after speaker, she has appeared on stages including E3, PAX East, Cannes Lions, AdWeek Next, Afrotech, and GamesBeat Next. Her work has been featured in British Vogue, Forbes, DAZED, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, and Black Enterprise, and she has collaborated with brands including Adidas, Maybelline, and Square Enix.

Jay-Ann continues to drive progress at the intersection of gaming, community, and culture.