The announcement of iGB’s Most Influential Women 2026 continues with three remarkable leaders who are making significant impacts in the gaming sector.
**Cecilia Valdés**
*Executive President, ACCJ*
Since taking charge of the Chilean Association of Gaming Casinos (ACCJ) in 2022, Cecilia Valdés has leveraged her two decades of expertise in communication and public affairs, rather than years entrenched in the gaming industry. Valdés, a skilled journalist, historian, and strategic communicator, has a unique perspective on an industry facing rapid technological, regulatory, and societal changes.
Expressing her gratitude upon receiving recognition as one of the Most Influential Women for 2026, Valdés stated, "I’m very proud and grateful to receive this recognition." She believes this honor signifies that her work in Chile is acknowledged internationally, yet underscores the responsibilities inherent in leadership. "Influence is measured not only by the position you hold, but by your ability to drive change, build consensus and contribute to the industry’s development," she added.
Valdés’s transition into gaming was not a straightforward path. She spent over 20 years in strategic communication before stepping into her role at the ACCJ, a move she cites as a significant career pivot. "Becoming executive president in 2022 was a turning point," Valdés mentioned. "I joined an industry going through major changes, with the task of professionalising the association and strengthening its role in the debate about its future."
Under her leadership, the ACCJ has aimed to enhance its voice with government and regulatory bodies and has expanded international collaborations. Valdés emphasized the need to build connections, remarking, "One of the things I value most about these years has been the challenge to build bridges."
A core focus of her agenda is regulatory reform to address the stalling of a bill to regulate online gambling that has been stalled since 2022. She argues for clear regulations in Chile's gaming sector to ensure its competitiveness long-term, stating, "I want to keep helping Chile build a modern, competitive and responsible gaming industry."
Valdés advocates for women's leadership within business as vital for strategic decision-making. She has been active in mentoring women through WoomUp, a Chilean organization devoted to empowering women in their careers. "Promoting women’s leadership has also been a personal commitment," she explained.
Her advice for aspiring leaders stresses the importance of making a real impact rather than seeking recognition. "Don’t build a career in pursuit of recognition, but in pursuit of real impact," she advised. Valdés encourages others to embrace learning and networking while adapting to new fields.
Looking ahead, Valdés highlights the immediate challenges of protecting licensed operators and creating a regulatory framework that fosters digital innovation. Her goal remains firm: to promote clarity around regulations and collaborate across sectors to advance the gaming landscape in Chile while enhancing opportunities for underrepresented groups.
**Chelsie Cooper**
*Founder and CEO, Approvely.com*
Chelsie Cooper, recognized as one of iGB’s Most Influential Women for 2026, has crafted her 15-year career in a methodical, "brick-by-brick" manner, influenced by her family background in payments and fintech. She has made a name for herself in the gaming sector by understanding its complexities and gaps,especially after her first operator customer in the U.S. daily fantasy sports market.
"Those first few customers were pivotal for us to really understand," Cooper explained. She positions Approvely as a solution to the misalignment between the fast-evolving needs of operators and the slower pace of many suppliers. "The huge gap in the industry is just that the gaming industry is pretty innovative. The suppliers have not caught up to that," she asserted, emphasizing Approvely’s mission to bridge this gap.
Cooper acknowledges that while there are signs of improvement, the gaming and fintech sectors remain lacking in diversity and inclusion. "Absolutely not," she stated when asked if the sectors have achieved their DEI goals, though she also sees encouraging leadership efforts. She underscores the value of peer networks and advises women to attend industry events to expand their connections, stating, "If you’re looking to expand your reach, start with these events to meet others doing similar things."
As Approvely prepares for a significant product launch early next year, Cooper's focus is on ensuring the platform aligns with operators' needs amidst the industry's rapid innovations. "We just want it to happen yesterday," she concluded, reflecting her ambitious goals for the future.
**Paris Smith**
*Independent Consultant*
Paris Smith, an independent consultant and former chief executive, expresses her honor at being named to the Most Influential Women list—framing it as a chance to highlight female talent rather than personal acclaim. Having spent 17 years with Pinnacle, she now advises startups while investing in the future of the gaming industry.
Reflecting on her ascent, Smith attributes her success to strong mentorship rather than gender advantages. "I’ve always had someone, always a gentleman, who believed in me and gave me opportunity," she noted. She emphasizes that her career growth stemmed from competence and diplomacy, marking her approach as a pragmatic one.
Recognizing the ongoing challenges women face in a male-dominated gaming industry, Smith points out that increased visibility and mindful hiring can facilitate changes. "If it is a woman, then by all means, bring it on," she stated, acknowledging companies that promote female leadership.
Looking ahead, Smith is focused on supporting entrepreneurs, helping them connect with partners and investors to maintain innovation in the industry. "Seeing what I believe to be a solution coming to fruition is super exciting," she declared.
Her advice for aspiring leaders centers on authenticity: "Be yourself and don’t be afraid. Let people see the strengths, the vulnerability and the determination that you have." Smith advocates for visibility and participation in discussions, insisting women should step out of their comfort zones to showcase their potential, connecting passion with capability to inspire others.
These three dynamic women exemplify the influence capable of fostering significant change and progress in the gaming industry, advocating for growth, inclusion, and a sustainable future.
