PRGDA GDC 2024 SCHOLARS!
We are incredibly excited to announce the recipients of the PRGDA GDC 2024 Scholarship! Our scholars represent a variety of Puerto Rican professionals and students currently defining their careers in the game industry. We’re excited about what this opportunity can provide for them. Look forward to their GDC recaps in a few weeks after they return!
We are ever thankful to the LATAM Video Games Federation for graciously giving GDC All-Access Passes to our community.
Angel J. Soto Rivera
New Scholar
Student at Inter Bayamón
Focus: Game Design & Production
“My name is Angel J. Soto Rivera, student at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico, Bayamon Campus. My bachelor's is in Video Game Development and Design, and my main concentration is in Game Design and Game Production, but I also have the capabilities to work with 3D Modeling and Pixel Art. I am a Junior Game Developer who's willing to make more games throughout my career. I'm looking to share my skills within the industry and make games that can bring joy to people who play them.“
Follow and Learn More about Angel:
Christopher Rosario Negrón
New Scholar
Programmer at Gladius Studios
Focus: Game Design & Programming
“I'm Christopher Rosario, a video game designer and programmer. I have 4+ years of professional experience working for Gladius Studios. My main tool for about 6 years has been Unreal Engine which I have used professionally and on personal projects like the various game jams I participate in throughout the year.“
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Dana Pimentel Sánchez
New Scholar
Graphic Designer at Gladius Studios
Focus: Graphic Design, UI/UX, Motion Graphics, and Illustration
“My name is Dana Pimentel, I'm a graphic designer at Gladius Studios. I have been working in the animation and video game industry for over 5 years now. I specialize in graphic design, UI/UX design, motion graphics, and illustration. I'm always looking to grow and innovate as a professional artist in the industry.“
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Gabriela Soto Massol
New Scholar
Freelance 2D Art Generalist
Focus: 2D Animation, UI Design, Pixel Art, and Storyboarding
“Hi! I'm Gabi, I'm a barista by day, and game dev by night. I graduated in 2022 with a degree in digital animation and have been working as a freelancer for indie games ever since. I'm currently directing my own game, Toad Tavern. Find me under the user @d1gitalrabbit across all platforms!“
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Iliana Laboy Nieves
New Scholar
Student at Inter Bayamón
Focus: Illustration & Game Design
“Hey there! I’m Iliana, a self-taught artist who loves creating art and playing video games. My dream is to become a game designer, artist, and animator. I'm all about turning my imagination into reality and getting inspiration from the gaming world and other cool stuff. When I'm not playing games, I'm learning new techniques or sharpening my skills.“
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Joel Rodriguez Perez
New Scholar
CEO & Founder at Gamestorme
Focus: Game Audio, Business Development, and Blockchain
“I bring a lifelong passion for gaming alongside a dedicated immersion in the gaming industry since 2017. Delving deep into research and industry insights, I recognized the opportunity to contribute to the development of businesses and to enhance gaming experiences through music and FX. As a composer, producer, and avid tech enthusiast, my aim is to bolster confidence in Puerto Rico's gaming community while fostering growth. In addition to gaming, I’m also into blockchain technology which I believe in its potential to revolutionize the industry when implemented the right way.“
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Jonathan Martinez
New Scholar
CEO & Creative Director at 8bit Bosses Studios
Professor at Inter American University of Puerto Rico, Bayamón Campus
Focus: Production, Business Development, and Game Design
“Advocate of the video game development industry and firm believer that video games are the ultimate art form. My goal is to support the next generation of developers by providing them mentorship and guidance, industry tools to expand their skillsets, and the motivation to believe in their capabilities to succeed.“
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José C. Montero Dávila
New Scholar
Student at Atlantic University
Focus: 3D Modeling, Prop Art, and Level Design
“My name is Jose Carlos Montero Dávila, and I am from Utuado, Puerto Rico. My main area of expertise is 3D art, particularly environment art and prop design. I'm deeply passionate about hard surface modeling, level design, and the technical aspects of 3D art. Currently, I'm a fourth-year student at Atlantic University, and I'm always eager to learn new skills and discover better ways to enhance my abilities as an artist.“
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Luis E. Aguilar Herrera
New Scholar
Freelance Graphic Designer & Illustrator
Focus: 2D Art, Graphic Design, and Production
“Heyo! I'm Luis E. Aguilar Herrera, or Leah for short; it all started when they gave me a GBA with Kirby & the Amazing Mirror and now we're here. A queer, afro-bori game dev with a knack for making games to help people cope with the rougher side of life. Gotta help people help themselves, you know?“
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Sergio V. Quintero
Returning Scholar
Freelance Composer
Focus: Music Composition & Audio Implementation
“Composer and bassist based in Puerto Rico. From a very young age, I have always had a great appreciation for music, soundscapes, and how with just one note a person can feel so many emotions. This was what led me to pursue a career in musical performance and composition, thanks to the great video game music that has inspired me over the years.“
