Attending my first iGaming conference was an intimidating experience. I entered the event knowing almost no one and feeling completely like an outsider, representing an unknown product in an industry that appeared resistant to change. However, as daunting as it was, I quickly realized that my outsider perspective offered me a unique advantage. It enabled me to analyze the industry without any biases tied to existing companies or products, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to its future.
Before joining the iGaming world in 2021, my background was rooted in finance and business consulting, where I worked with agriculture companies and investment funds, none of which were connected to iGaming. My journey took an unexpected turn when I joined an investment fund aimed at startups leveraging AI and machine learning. A chance meeting with an investor in the iGaming sector led to a pivotal conversation. He pointed out the industry's significant underuse of data, revealing a vast opportunity. This insight sparked deeper exploration into the potential of data within iGaming.
Initially starting as an advisor for Playa, I was appointed CEO in 2024, a role I embraced unexpectedly. At Playa, we offer AI-driven personalization solutions, marking a novel approach in an industry that was ready for such innovation. As a newcomer, I gathered a skilled team to help propel the company forward, and in the two years since I assumed the position, I have had the privilege of collaborating with some of the most talented individuals in the sector.
I would be lying if I said I didn’t have reservations when entering the iGaming arena. Some elements of the industry seemed stagnant, with companies content to generate profits without striving for innovation. As someone inherently curious, this pace of business frustrated me. Nevertheless, I have observed encouraging shifts. Recent regulatory changes and a rise in competition are compelling companies to innovate. Those that resist change are being left behind, creating a conducive environment for growth. Cross-industry perspectives are now being welcomed, with companies eager to adopt successful strategies from other sectors.
Initially, I felt like an outsider in this industry but that has changed dramatically. The nerves I faced at my first conferences propelled me to connect with others, revealing a community-oriented industry. Now, I look forward to these gatherings, meeting friends like Gali Hartuv, the CEO and co-founder of WarriorLab, whom I met at a conference. Together, we host monthly webinars addressing various aspects of iGaming.
Additionally, I’ve been inspired by the network of empowered women leaders in the sector. I was recently added to an exclusive WhatsApp group for female executives in iGaming, which started with just 20 members and has expanded to 150. This community has proven invaluable, as holding a C-suite position can often feel isolating. The difficult decisions I face sometimes come at the expense of personal relationships, but these women understand my challenges and provide essential support without judgment.
Entering the iGaming industry as an outsider was nerve-racking, yet it has turned into my greatest asset. My lack of preconceived notions enables me to approach problems differently and to ignore outdated conventions. I believe strongly that the industry needs more voices from outside its traditional circles, people who can challenge longstanding assumptions and who view obstacles from a fresh perspective.
Technology, especially AI, is transforming various sectors, and the more we learn from each other, the more we can collectively grow. I encourage those on the outside and those within the industry seeking change to question everything, to challenge the status quo, and to bypass conventional wisdom. By doing this, I have discovered a welcoming environment that prioritizes inclusion, and I am eager to see how this community continues to evolve.
