Before #AsianPacificIslanderHeritageMonth comes to an end, we’d like to take a moment to highlight some of our APAC studio members by sharing their stories of their culture, career journey, and what keeps them inspired. Now introducing Michael Rivera: Lead Animator at Sledgehammer Games Toronto. "I was born in Toronto, in a small apartment neighborhood that wasn’t too well off. Despite its size, there was a big Filipino community that grew within it. Everyone knew everyone, which led to many great friendships. Growing up, I wanted to be either an astronomer or paleontologist. I loved everything about space, and I loved dinosaurs thanks to Jurassic Park and the Toronto Raptors. The turning point for me was in 1995 when I watched Toy Story in theatres. It sparked something in me. I remember in Grade 7, we had a class project about our career goals, and without any hesitation, I said I wanted to be a 3D Animator. Since that point in my life, I’ve been committed to my goal and today I can proudly say I have achieved it. My parents knew how much I loved animation and video games and have always been supportive of whatever I do. I have some family members who were forced into certain professions for money or reputation. Not once did my parents ever force their career expectations onto me. I still remember what my mom told me at an early age that changed my whole perspective on life. ‘Michael, don’t chase the money. Follow your passion. When you love what you do, it won’t feel like a job.' To this day, this is something not only do I live by, but I help preach. I’ve always tried to lead by example. From early in my life to now, there is an aspect of me that likes to make sure everyone is on the same page. How I see that impacting my role here at SHG is through my communication. Making games is hard. Early on in development, a lot of things are figured out through design exploration and concept art and it’s hard to communicate an idea through something static. This is where I like to come in and provide the team with a more visual idea through motion. This can be through previsual animation, video referencing from other media, and even acting it out myself. This has always led to not only a clearer goal for the team, but a unified vision.” We’re proud to celebrate Michael’s contributions to our team and all the experience he brings with him. His journey highlights the importance of community in pursuit our passions. 🚀 #AAPIMonth #GameDevelopment #GameDev #GamesIndustry Activision
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Sr. Talent Partner @ Moonhub.ai
1moDreamville 🧢 for the win!!! Thanks for sharing your story, Michael!