Ali Farha: A Journey from Gamer to Influential Figure in the Games Industry

Ali Farha has emerged as a notable voice in the gaming sector, particularly on the business networking platform LinkedIn. With a rich background in technology, Farha made a bold shift into the gaming industry seven years ago, transforming his passion into a flourishing career.

The Genesis of a Gamer’s Journey

Originally, Farha wasn’t aware that a career in gaming was even an option. "I didn’t know that you can work in games," he recalls, illustrating his surprise upon discovering a job advertisement at Peak. This pivotal moment prompted him to chase a dream he had longed for but never thought possible. "I started from absolutely nothing," he emphasizes, noting his mission to inspire others that it’s feasible to enter this field at any age and from any background.

Building a Network from Scratch

Transitioning into gaming was not an effortless endeavor for Farha. He began with approximately three years of learning—through platforms such as Unity and Unreal—and painstakingly built connections in an industry where he had minimal credentials. His previous experience in testing at transport solutions provider Scania Group and digital consultancy Knightec gave him a foundation, but it was a steep hill to climb.

Late nights became the norm as he worked on building his first game and collaborated with various studios as a playtester. Farha’s willingness to take unpaid roles supporting game studios exemplified his commitment to his new career path, proving that determination and hard work can bear fruit.

The Turning Point at Star Stable Entertainment

Securing a position as a test automation engineer at Star Stable Entertainment marked a significant turning point. Within a month of joining, opportunities began to cascade: leading courses at schools, taking on board member positions, and being invited to speak at events like CD Projekt Red. "It just started to go up from there," he shares, noting the exhilarating momentum that followed.

This rapid ascent opened doors to numerous speaking engagements, podcasts, and international travel. Farha embraced every opportunity, stating, “Whatever small event, I’m all down for this.”

Becoming a Social Media Influencer

Fast forward to today, and Farha stands as one of LinkedIn’s preeminent influencers in the gaming industry. His insights and engaging content resonate with a wide audience and have successfully fostered meaningful dialogues within the community. He recognizes the growing trend of industry professionals sharing their perspectives online, asserting that even one post a week can place you ahead of a large percentage of LinkedIn’s user base.

“I wrote for a full year for no one,” he recalls, illustrating his persistence in creating content. Through trial and error, he found his voice and began to share his insights with increasing confidence. “Writing changed my life,” says Farha, encouraging others to overcome their fears and share their experiences.

The Power of Saying ‘Yes’

A cornerstone of Farha’s success has been his willingness to embrace unfamiliar situations. He advises, “You will see a big change” if you say yes to opportunities you would usually decline. Initially terrified of public speaking, he has now delivered over 100 talks, showcasing his growth in this area. “I was really shitting my pants speaking in front of my own team,” he humorously admits, yet he transformed this fear into a strength.

The Impact of Sharing Knowledge

Farha believes that sharing knowledge is not merely a personal benefit but a collective responsibility. “It’s our duty,” he declares, emphasizing that what one shares can be valuable to others. Overcoming the misconception that sharing feels like bragging, he argues that it is crucial to demonstrate how experiences can aid others in their journeys.

Transitioning into Investment with Behold Ventures

In a bold move into investment, Ali Farha has joined Nordic VC firm Behold Ventures, taking on a role that challenges him to step beyond his comfort zone. He sees this transition as an opportunity to practice what he preaches about growth and taking risks. “I’ve been telling people to always be brave,” he notes, underscoring the importance of leading by example.

With each new venture, Ali Farha continues to forge connections and inspire those around him, proving that success in the gaming industry is accessible to anyone willing to strive for it.

For anyone eager to meet figures like Farha or expand their industry network, events like Pocket Gamer Connects London on January 19th and 20th present an invaluable opportunity.