Today we’d like to introduce you to Leroy Jones.
Hi Leroy, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
The reason behind starting my own business was because I was sick of getting discriminated against and blocked out of the game industry, so I made my own way. I was constantly pushed aside, counted last, and all the excuses I heard basically amounted to it being because I was Black.
As an up-and-coming 3D artist there’s a saying that goes around telling you it will take you 3-5 years to get your first job. So, it was basically on God to send you a sign. I’m sorry, but I’ve been on my own since a very young age and God never came, so I knew I needed to take matters into my own hands. Then seeing the game industry behind closed doors really pushed me even more, because most companies aren’t giving the new people any chances. They seem to be only looking for seniors, no diversity at all, or any clue what that really even means.
Thus the 3D Dojo was born. I created the 3D Dojo community to fight against that and be the difference, as people like myself always have to do. Also it gives my people a better chance, because there’s going to be a lot Black representation; from the folks we are able to hire to the game we create. As the community grew I was able to form a team and achieve my main goal which was to develop my own game studio “3D DOJO STUDIOS”. We are launching our first game this year. There’s a lot more to the story but this is as short as I can make it (haha).
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I would have to say no mainly because you are dealing with other folks’ minds and differing views, so trying to get a team or the people around you to take matters into their own hands is a battle in itself.
Also me being the person everyone looks up to and feeding off my strength alone is no easy task! However, I must endure to achieve my life ambition and save the people I’m fighting for, give my family a better life and most importantly give them resources!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in 3D art and game development, and I’m known for my drive to be the best at anything.
Right now I would say the thing I’m most proud of is me creating my own platforms that not only pushed my dream, but was able help others and give them a place they feel like they belong.
I believe what sets me apart from others is my ability to see and live in reality, which is mostly to do with me not being able to dream as a kid. Another thing is my ability to inspire those around me because I’m an example to show you that you can get what you think you can’t achieve. I’m someone that’s been through it all and is still pushing. The last thing that sets me apart is my ability to adapt to any situation.
What matters most to you? Why?
That I achieve this mission so I can save the folks like me and to elevate my family and give them resources, but most importantly to fulfill a promise I made to my grandmother before she passed, who was one of the most important people in my life.
Contact Info:
- Email: leroy.jones003@gmail.com
- Website: https://3ddojostudios.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/3ddojo/
- Other: https://anchor.fm/leroy-jones67
Image Credits
3D Dojo Community
mrinal bhardwaj
September 24, 2021 at 1:24 pm
Happy to see you succeed.