We are very excited to announce that we are supporting Ida XR Studio to host their first Bristol meet up on Friday 23 May here at Watershed.

The Ida Network is for women, non-binary and trans people working in, or curious about, the immersive XR sector.  

Through 17 years of operating the Pervasive Media Studio we know that the world of creative technology can feel very homogenous and not always welcoming if you experience oppression because of your gender identity. 

Ida believes that true change begins at the grassroots, by fostering a community that is non-judgemental, determined, and joyful. They aim to celebrate and make space for communities of women, non-binary and trans people through meet ups at events and festivals. They create inclusive spaces to meet new people, make new connections, build belonging at an individual level or even start a new collaboration or venture!

The Event:

‘Beyond the Build: Valuing all skills in immersive projects’

This ticketed event explores the full range of skills that bring immersive projects to life, whether you're deep in the code, or have never touched a headset. They’ll host an honest conversation about value in our industry: how it's defined, who gets to belong and how we can reframe our contributions in technical spaces.

Whether you’ve built your confidence through learning new tools, or you prefer to work analogue and hands-on, you’ll hear from speakers from a wide spectrum of immersive work – sharing real stories, lessons learned and creative strategies for growing your craft.

Why attend?

  • Be part of an open, empowering conversation on skills, confidence and inclusion.
  • Connect with others in the field through a relaxed, informal meet-up.
  • Gain insights from peers and speakers with a wide range of experience – technical and otherwise.
  • Join a supportive community committed to reimagining what it means to “belong” in tech.

When: Friday 23 May 14.15 – 17.00

Where: Watershed, Room W4

Cost: Free

For further information and how to book: Eventbrite tickets

Ida hosts regular events including in Cardiff and London as well as online and as part of larger conferences such as Beyond and Sheffield Doc Fest. 

“We are dedicated to dismantling the systems of oppression present in our industry and society, challenging traditional norms to create an environment where new possibilities, collaborations, and opportunities can flourish, enabling everyone to prosper.” 

Leah Kurta, Ida Co-Founder

The Pervasive Media Studio is supporting Ida’s first Bristol event through MyWorld and will continue to support this community through existing offers and programme.

‘The MyWorld programme brings a wealth of new technology and research capability to the West of England. We must support creating the conditions and opportunities for gaining access to these facilities and know-how beyond the status quo, and in a way where this community feels like they can be their authentic self. We are very excited to be able to support Ida and hope that many more events will follow.’ 

Vanessa Bellaar Spruijt, Producer at Watershed

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This event is sponsored by MyWorld, funded by UKRI. Read more about MyWorld. MyWorld is funded through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) ‘Strength in Places fund’.  

Main Delivery partners: University of Bristol, University of the West of England, University of Bath, Bath Spa University, Digital Catapult, Watershed, Aardman Animations, Lux Aeterna, Esprit Film and Television, Bristol Old Vic and Opposable Games.