PRGDA GDC 2026 SCHOLARS
We are incredibly excited to announce the recipients of the PRGDA GDC 2026 Scholarship! Our scholars represent a variety of Puerto Rican professionals and students currently defining their careers in the game industry. We’re excited about what this opportunity can provide for them. Look forward to their GDC recaps in a few weeks after they return!
We are ever thankful to the LATAM Video Games Federation for giving GDC Festival Passes to our community.
Nicolas Cid Delgado
New Scholar
Independent Developer
Focus: 2D Art & Game Design
Nicolas Cid Delgado is an independent game developer currently working on his game “Funeral of the Sun,” an exploration, detective, puzzle game set to release on Steam in 2026.
Learn more about Nicolas:
Brian León
New Scholar
Full-Time 3D Artist
Focus: Technical Art
“Hello! My name is Brian León, a 3D Generalist specializing in modeling and technical art for videogames and simulation. Passion drives everything I do, constantly exploring new artistic mediums, most recently hands-on crafts and music. I’m passionate about learning, sharing knowledge, and connecting with others who love building experiences through art and technology.”
Learn more about Brian:
Angel Cotté Alvarado
New Scholar
Independent Developer
Focus: Programming, Design & 2D Art
“Hi, my name is Angel. I’m a multidisciplinary digital creator with a background in graphic design, web design, sound design, database management, VFX and video editing, illustration, programming, and game design. Diagnosed with autism at a young age, I’ve learned to approach creativity and problem-solving from a unique perspective. My goal is to inspire others and share knowledge by making complex topics easy to understand.”
Learn more about Angel:
Elian Callejas Otero
New Scholar
Student at Interamerican University - Bayamón
Focus: Gameplay Programming & System Design
“I am a fourth-year Video Game Design and Development student at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico, focused on gameplay programming and systems design. As a queer student, my identity shapes my work as a creator and as Student Council President. Promoting collaboration across campus, my goal being to contribute to the game industry as both a developer and leader. For I believe that representation matters. Not only in the stories we tell through games, but in who gets to build them.”
Learn more about Elian:
Ricardo Chiesa
New Scholar
Freelance Music Composer
Focus: Music Composition
Ricardo Chiesa is a Video Game & Film Composer and Berklee College of Music graduate. His philosophy embraces ideas of past and present, inspired by a deep respect for composers old and new. Through orchestration, digital production, and adventurous genre fusion, he has developed a captivating sonic palette focused on creating music that is memorable, immersive, and integral to each project. Specializing in JRPG, adventure, and fantasy music, he blends orchestral, world, and electronic sounds.
Learn more about Ricardo:
Paul Torres González
New Scholar
Student at Interamerican University - Bayamón
Focus: Level Design & UI/UX Design
“I'm Paul W. Torres González, co-founder of EMP Studios, where I specialize as the lead level designer, while also having a supporting role in the creation of environmental art and UI/UX. At present, I’m a fourth-year game development student at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico, Bayamón campus, forming part of the Student Council as its Secretary. On top of playing games, I have an interest in history and architecture, awesome sources of inspiration when design maps and worldbuilding!”
Learn more about Paul:
Víctor Baez
New Scholar
Freelance Programmer
Focus: Programming & AR/XR Development
“Hello!! My name is Victor, I'm an indie game dev based from PR. Currently working as a gameplay programmer for a game called Toad Tavern, with the wonderful upstart team over at Community Couch! I love creating and exploring new ideas, through this wonderful medium we've all come to love so much. Can't wait to see what incredible creations our community has in store for all of us!!”
Learn more about Victor:
Gabriela Soto Massol
Returning Scholar
Independent Developer
Focus: 2D Art, Business & Marketing
“Hey! I'm an indie dev and artist based in Puerto Rico. I've worked as a freelancer on titles like Blink Land and Vejigantes. Currently, I'm directing my first indie title, Toad Tavern, where you play as a down on your luck bartender in a 1920s speakeasy (did i mention that you're a frog?) Whenever i’m not devving, I’m probably sifting through clothing racks at a thrift store, drinking iced lattes, scribbling in my sketchbook or playing with my kitten, Tuna!”
Learn more about Gabriela:
Marco Rosado
Returning Scholar
Student at Interamerican University - Bayamón
Focus: Technical Art
Marco Rosado co-founded EMP Studios, where he serves as technical artist and project manager. Currently studying videogame development and design at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico, Bayamón Campus. Active member in the industry and academic community. In addition, he was elected as Vice President of the Student Council, the governing body that oversees all student organizations and manages funding for university-wide events and student initiatives.
