Oli Blackwell
Mentor
I am a Computer Games Programming graduate from the University of Gloucestershire with multiple years of experience developing games within Unity and Unreal Engine using C# and C++. My passion to help and support people who deal with neurodiversity and mental health issues led me to create Riscord, an award-winning text-based adventure game set in an instant messaging application where the player messages with other characters who attend the same college. The story was developed to help bring understanding and empathy to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. My experience and understanding of mental health issues will help me support and guide young people to allow them to grow and learn in a safe environment about games development, which is a topic I love.
I believe playing and building games can be an amazing escape for everyone, while also allowing people to explore their imagination and learn new skills, challenging themselves and their problem-solving abilities. I am committed to helping others learn and develop new and existing skills.
I have accredited counselling training and training supporting and understanding those with SEN including Autism, ADHD and PDA. I have provided talks with SEN students in schools about games development which allowed me to interact with students whilst showing them games development projects. I also have personal experience with assisting people with learning difficulties and mental health issues as I have close family members who have autism.
Currently, I have a Gaming PC, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and a Nintendo Switch. I am happy to accommodate any games on these platforms.
I am fully DBS checked, and have undergone full safeguarding training.
Favourite Games
The Last of Us 1 & 2, Horizon : Zero Dawn / Forbidden West, God of War, Ghost of Tsushima, CS:GO, Call of Duty, Minecraft, Fortnite
Hobbies
Coding, 3D Modelling, Playing Guitar, Researching Hardware
My Pets
A Labrador called Summer
We'd love to hear from you.
If you would like our team to get in touch with you to discuss how we can help you and your young people through our services, please feel free to fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch as soon as possible to talk you through enrolling with one of our mentors or counsellors