Verta Maloney

Verta Maloney is a dynamic leader, educator, and activist whose journey is defined by a steadfast commitment to equity, empowerment, and social justice. As the Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of the*gameHERs, Maloney spearheads a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to amplifying the voices of women and femme-identifying individuals in the video game industry, challenging stereotypes and fostering inclusivity.

With over 25 years of experience in education and social impact, Maloney's career trajectory has been marked by a profound dedication to transformative change. Beginning as a teacher in Prince George's County Public Schools, she quickly emerged as a trailblazer, serving as a literacy specialist for the New York City Department of Education and later as the founding principal of Bronx Arts. Her tenure as a national leadership facilitator for the New York City Leadership Academy saw her designing and delivering professional learning experiences for educators across the nation.

In 2017, Maloney co-founded 45 Lemons, a pioneering venture aimed at guiding individuals and organizations in confronting and dismantling racism through the exploration of their racial autobiographies. Alongside her co-founder, Naa Yirenkyi, she empowers others to navigate complex social dynamics and catalyze personal growth towards a more equitable society.

Maloney's visionary spirit found further expression in 2020 with the establishment of the*gameHERs, a women-led media company and community dedicated to advancing gender diversity and representation in the gaming world. In addition, she serves as Managing Director at Percapita, a digital company revolutionizing access to financial products, enhancing affordability and availability for hourly workers and their communities.

Maloney serves as a board member and founding team member at Civics Unplugged, where she nurtures the next generation of civic leaders and works towards revitalizing democracy. Her ultimate aspiration is to create transformative encounters for Black, Indigenous, and people of color, fostering healing, empowerment, and love in every interaction.