Limit Break, the UK’s flagship mentorship initiative for championing underrepresented and marginalised talent in the games industry, has opened applications for its 2025 cohort. Now in its seventh year, the volunteer-led scheme returns amid a challenging industry climate marked by widespread layoffs, studio closures, and structural inequities.
Founded in 2019 by industry advocate Anisa Sanusi, Limit Break has grown from a grassroot initiative of just 100 participants into a nationwide movement. In 2024 alone, it supported over 1,600 mentor-mentee pairings. The scheme connects early and mid-career professionals—including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, disabled and neurodiverse people, and those from ethnic minority backgrounds—with experienced mentors across a range of disciplines in the UK games sector.
“Everyone at Limit Break is passionate about supporting diverse talent in our industry,” said Sanusi. “We’re really excited to bring the mentorship program back for its seventh year.” Program Director Dan Thomas echoed the sentiment: “It’s a hugely challenging time for the industry, but we believe mentoring can play a really important role—by helping our members grow, build long-lasting connections, and be part of a supportive community.” At its core, the program is built to provide long-term, meaningful support—not just surface-level opportunities—for individuals historically excluded from leadership pipelines.
Limit Break’s mentorship model is simple yet effective: a six-month structured program pairing mentees with volunteer mentors—each with at least three years of industry experience—for monthly one-on-one sessions hosted via the PushFar platform. Sessions range from CV reviews and technical upskilling to navigating complex workplace dynamics, with mentees encouraged to set clear, actionable goals.
Beyond these core sessions, participants gain access to exclusive online events, peer support groups, and curated resources designed to combat professional isolation and accelerate career development. The program is free to join, fully remote, and open to individuals across the UK and Ireland who identify as part of a marginalised group—ensuring accessibility regardless of location or financial constraints.
The 2025 launch comes against a sobering backdrop. According to the 2022 UK Games Industry Census conducted by UKIE, just 30% of the workforce identifies as female, with only 3% identifying as non-binary. Black, Asian, and minority ethnic professionals make up only 11%—and remain significantly underrepresented in senior roles. Many leave the industry early due to a lack of support and advancement opportunities.
That’s exactly what Limit Break aims to change. While the scheme doesn’t offer direct job placements, its long-term impact is evident across the UK games scene. Alumni have credited the mentorship with everything from portfolio breakthroughs to confidence boosts to unexpected career pivots. Its overarching mission remains consistent: to foster an industry that is inclusive, sustainable, and truly welcoming to those historically excluded from leadership roles.
Applications for both mentees and mentors are now open and will close at midnight on April 25. Mentorship pairings will begin on May 5. Interested applicants can find more information at www.limitbreak.co.uk
Words by Khushboo Malhotra
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