Black in Gaming Foundation reveals 2026 BIG Award winners

The Black in Gaming Foundation has revealed the winners of its 2026 BIG Awards, recognising Black professionals whose work continues to shape the global games industry across development, media, education and advocacy.

The annual ceremony also celebrates the leaders creating opportunities for Black talent in games. This year’s awards honoured contributors working across multiple disciplines, including programming, art and social impact.

The 2026 BIG Award winners include:

• Gerald “Jerry” Lawson Lifetime Achievement Award - Lisette Montgomery

• Excellence in Education Award - Dr Akil Fletcher

• Excellence in Media Award - Stephanie Ijoma

• Excellence in Artistry Award - Danielle Wallace

• Excellence in Programming Award - Jarryd Huntley

• Indie Developer Award - Adanna Nedd

• Industry Champion Award - Alice Winter

• Industry Spotlight Award - Destinee Cleveland

• Social and Economic Change Award - iAsia Brown

Hosted by Dr. iAsia Brown, the ceremony celebrated professionals whose work continues to expand opportunities for Black creators across the global gaming ecosystem.

Past honourees of the BIG Awards include industry figures such as Reggie Fils-Aimé, Sarah Bond and the late Jerry Lawson.

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