Womenize! – Inspiring Stories is our weekly series featuring inspirational individuals from games and tech. For this edition we talked to Mame Faty Kane, Game Designer at Game Hub Senegal. She speaks about her journey in tech and gaming, highlighting her mission to empower others, grow Senegal’s gaming industry, and inspire young women to break barriers. Read more about Mame here:
Hi Mame! Your career journey is incredibly diverse, ranging from game design and education to leadership in innovative projects. What inspired you to pursue a path that combines technology, creativity, and teaching, and how have these experiences shaped your personal and professional growth?

My inspiration comes from my early fascination with technology, which began when my father introduced me to gaming. Over time, I realized that games could be more than entertainment; they could be tools for learning, storytelling, and connection. Combining technology, creativity, and teaching felt natural because I wanted to empower others, especially young minds, through interactive and engaging methods. These experiences have shaped me into a more versatile professional, teaching me the value of adaptability, collaboration, and using my skills to inspire others while addressing local and global challenges.

As a game designer currently incubated at Game Hub Senegal and the CEO of Gümba Yana, you are at the forefront of Senegal’s growing tech and gaming scene. How do you see the local gaming industry evolving, and what role do you hope to play in fostering its growth and inclusivity?

The local gaming industry in Senegal is expanding rapidly, fueled by increasing access to technology, rising talent, and initiatives like Game Hub Senegal that nurture innovation. I see the industry becoming more globally competitive while also emphasizing local narratives and culture. My role is to contribute to this growth by developing games that are not only entertaining but also educational and culturally relevant. Through Gümba Yana, I aim to create opportunities for collaboration and inclusion, especially for women and underrepresented groups, ensuring that the gaming industry in Senegal reflects the diversity and potential of its people.

You’re passionate about empowering young minds through digital education and entrepreneurship. What advice would you give to young women in Senegal and beyond who aspire to build careers in technology and game design, especially in environments where these opportunities are still emerging?

To young women aspiring to join the fields of technology and game design, I say: believe in your potential and don’t let societal expectations define your choices. This industry is not reserved for men; we, as women, have unique perspectives and contributions to make. Be curious, seek out learning opportunities, and don’t hesitate to reach out to mentors or communities for support. It’s also important to stay resilient—breaking barriers isn’t always easy, but your determination will inspire others and pave the way for a more inclusive future.

Thanks for this interview, Mame!

Mame’s links: LinkedIn

Womenize! – Inspiring Stories Feature by Madeleine Egger