At SBC Summit Malta 2025, we’re proud to shine a light on the women who are driving innovation, shaping regulation, and redefining leadership across the global iGaming and betting industries.
This blog post highlights the female speakers who will be taking the stage throughout the summit, offering their insights, expertise, and vision across a variety of conference tracks.
Representation matters. Showcasing the women leading the conversation helps inspire the next generation of industry professionals, fosters greater inclusivity, and ensures that the complex challenges facing our sector are addressed from a diverse range of perspectives.
From compliance and marketing to operations and product strategy, these women are helping shape the future of gaming — and we’re excited to give them the spotlight they deserve.
In the sections below, you’ll find an overview of each conference track, followed by a look at the women speaking within that theme, with a short profile on each.
CASINO EVOLUTION
The ‘Casino Evolution‘ track at SBC Summit Malta will dive deep into how the casino sector is adapting to rapidly changing industry dynamics. From navigating shifting regulations and expanding into new markets to embracing automation, AI, and gamification, this track is designed to explore the most pressing questions facing casino operators today.
Attendees will gain insights into how Europe’s gaming leaders are responding to evolving compliance challenges while pushing the boundaries of innovation to captivate new player demographics. With an increasing emphasis on creativity, responsible gameplay, and operational excellence, this track provides a comprehensive look at how brands are staying competitive in an increasingly complex environment.
Through a dynamic mix of panels, the Casino Evolution track will also explore the technological and structural shifts transforming the sector, from the rise of sweepstakes casinos and influencer marketing to the growing role of platforms and aggregators.
Speakers:
- Marharyta Yerina, Managing Director, ELA Games: Appointed as ELA Games’ Managing Director since April 2025, Yerina joined the company with more than a decade of experience in finance, business strategy and operations across several sectors, including six years in iGaming. Panel: ‘Platforms and Aggregators: Catalysts or Constraints in the Gaming Industry’s Future?’
- Kristina Murgovska, CPO, Rhino Entertainment: Kristina Murgovska has been Chief Product Officer at Malta-based iGaming solutions provider Rhino Entertainment since May 2022. Prior to this role, she held key leadership positions as Director of Product Development and Head of Product.
Panel: ‘Platforms and Aggregators: Catalysts or Constraints in the Gaming Industry’s Future?’ - Jovana Popović Čanaki, CEO, iGP: Jovana Popović Čanaki is the Chief Executive Officer of iGP, a role she took on in January 2025 after serving as Deputy CEO. An experienced international executive, she brings expertise in business strategy, operations, and CRM within the gambling and casino industry. Panel: ‘‘Platforms and Aggregators: Catalysts or Constraints in the Gaming Industry’s Future?’ & ‘Game Changers: Lessons from Other Industries to Transform Affiliation in 2026’
- Lourdes Lopez, Head of Casino, Rivalo Brasil: An experienced professional with a strong background in casino products, product campaigns, and brand management, Lopez currently serves as Head of Casino for Rivalo’s Brazilian arm, Nok Services. Panel: ‘Over Gamification of Slot Games? Are we moving too far away from the Traditional Game?’
EUROPE: REGULATION & COMPLIANCE
With compliance, responsible gambling, player protection, and market integrity under constant evaluation, European stakeholders are continually seeking new strategies to drive growth and build brand awareness while staying compliant.
To help delegates better understand the latest regulatory and compliance developments shaping the region, SBC Summit Malta will feature the dedicated track, ‘Europe: Regulation & Compliance.’ This track is essential for anyone eager to grasp how operators across the continent are responding to sweeping regulatory and compliance changes — from bold licensing reforms and sustainability strategies to enhanced cross-border cooperation.
The track will feature focused sessions on headline-making developments, including Malta’s push for sustainability and cross-border alignment, Italy’s recent licensing overhaul, and Finland’s transition away from a monopoly model. It will also address the practical realities of operating across black, grey, and newly regulated markets, spotlighting critical challenges ranging from Germany’s channelisation struggles to navigating increasingly restrictive marketing frameworks.
Speakers:
- Olena Demchenko, Head of AML, FDJ United: Olena Demchenko has served as Head of AML at FDJ United since January 2025, bringing extensive compliance expertise gained from previous roles at FDJ United, TonyBet, Amazon, and LeoVegas. Panel: ‘Malta: Building a Sustainable Gaming Future’
- Elen Barber, Chief Marketing Officer, Super Group: Elen Barber has served as Chief Marketing Officer at Super Group since April 2024, bringing over a decade of experience in driving marketing innovation, customer-centric strategies, and business transformation. Panel: ‘Branding Within Constraints: CMO Insights from Europe’s Regulated Markets’
- Corinne Valletta, General Counsel, Betsson Group: Corinne Valletta has served as General Counsel at Betsson Group since July 2018, bringing over 15 years of legal and regulatory expertise in the gaming sector. Prior to her current role, she held key positions including Head of Regulatory Affairs and Group Compliance at Betsson Group and Head of EU & International Affairs at the Malta Gaming Authority. Panel: ‘Italy’s New Gambling Licence Regime’.
AFFILIATE INSIGHTS
The ‘Affiliate Insights’ conference track at SBC Summit Malta will provide affiliates with the latest market insights and forward-thinking strategies, proving essential for any affiliate looking to master the evolving digital ecosystem, moving beyond SEO dependence and embracing a multichannel, socially-driven future.
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore how leading affiliates are enhancing their strategies to keep up with evolving player preferences, from understanding the latest algorithm updates and the rise of AI, to the dominance of social media channels. With an acute focus on the future of European affiliation, the track will provide the framework for building a robust and sustainable affiliate model that balances creativity, compliance, and innovation.
A dedicated trilogy of SEO sessions will dive into the future of search optimisation, covering everything from utilising large language models and generative AI to defending against blackhat tactics and thriving across Google, Bing, YouTube, and Reddit. Panels will also explore bold strategies from outside the industry, such as e-commerce and dating, and tackle the ethical complexities of affiliation in black and grey markets.
Speakers:
- Ivana Flynn, Head of SEO and strategy, online.casino: Ivana Flynn is a seasoned SEO expert with extensive experience in the iGaming industry. She has held prominent SEO roles at leading companies such as ComeOn Group, Mr Green, Catena Media, and Betsson Group. Panel: ‘SEO Trilogy’ (‘SEO for LLMs: Shaping Strategies for the AI-Driven Web’, ‘The Rise of Blackhat SEO and Negative SEO attacks: Trends, Tactics’, and ‘Defence Strategies for 2024-2025 & The New SEO Reality of 2025: Thriving in a Multichannel World’)
- Natalia Roitonen, Head of SEO, Hit Gaming: Roitonen has been Head of SEO at Hit Gaming since February 2024, bringing deep expertise in sportsbook, technical SEO, and growth marketing. She has a proven track record in multi-country SEO strategy, stakeholder relations, and driving customer acquisition across diverse verticals. Panel: ‘The Rise of Blackhat SEO and Negative SEO attacks: Trends, Tactics, and Defence Strategies for 2024-2025’ (SEO Trilogy)
- Emma-Elizabeth Byrne, Director of Publishing, Gentoo Media: Emma-Elizabeth Byrne has been Director of Publishing at Gentoo Media since June 2024, bringing over half a decade of experience in SEO and publishing strategy. Specialising in iGaming, she excels at developing SEO and marketing strategies that drive websites to top search rankings. Panel: ‘The New SEO Reality of 2025: Thriving in a Multichannel World’ (SEO Trilogy)
- Jenny Gonzalez, CEO, Rocahead: Jenny Gonzalez has been Co-Founder and CEO of Rocahead since September 2019, leading a performance network that simplifies affiliate marketing for advertisers and affiliates. With two decades of industry expertise, she drives strategy, partnerships, and scalable solutions that deliver measurable results and long-term success. Panel: ‘Game Changers: Lessons from Other Industries to Transform Affiliation in 2026’
- Miruna Pandele, Head of Affiliates, Satoshi Gaming Group: Miruna Pandele has been Head of Affiliates at Satoshi Gaming Group since December 2023, bringing notable experience in affiliate and influencer marketing, automation tools, and ROI-driven strategies. Panel: ‘Game Changers: Lessons from Other Industries to Transform Affiliation in 2026’
PAYMENTS INNOVATION
The ‘Payments Innovation’ track at SBC Summit Malta will offer a comprehensive overview of the latest developments shaping the European payments landscape. From in-depth examinations of innovative banking systems to demystifying the world of cryptocurrencies, this track is a must-attend for anyone looking to stay ahead in the fast-evolving world of European payments.
Track attendees will gain valuable insights into the potential of open banking, exploring its impact on player protection and the customer experience, alongside an essential guide to navigating the crypto market, covering key trends, emerging strategies, and critical lessons for success in the crypto space.
With player safety at the forefront, the track will also feature a dedicated panel on fraud prevention, spotlighting the latest anti-fraud technologies, strategies for combating identity attacks, and the vital industry collaboration needed to tackle these harmful and illegal activities.
Speakers:
- Theresia Mallia, Head of Payment Product, Kindred Group: Theresia Mallia has led the Payment division at FDJ since January 2025, overseeing strategy across 25+ integrations to deliver frictionless, compliant payment experiences. Panel: ‘Open Banking in Europe: The Disruptor Transforming Payments and Affordability’
- Rachael Kennedy, Editor, Payment Expert: Rachael Kennedy has been Editor at Payment Expert and Insider Sport since April 2025. She brings a wealth of experience in editorial leadership, commercial content, and news strategy, with a strong background across fintech, payments, and financial markets. Panel: ‘Open Banking in Europe: The Disruptor Transforming Payments and Affordability’
- Sabine Roiss, CEO, Founder, Crypto-Play: Sabine Roiss has been CEO of Crypto-Play since January 2024, bringing extensive expertise in Web3, DeFi, and crypto payments. A seasoned startup founder and strategic growth expert, she specialises in building high-impact partnerships, driving market expansion, and transforming blockchain innovation into business success. Panel: ‘Crypto Myth-Busting and Trends: How to Invest Wisely and Avoid Common Pitfalls’
MARKETING PLAYBOOK
As the gaming industry faces increasing competition and tighter advertising restrictions, marketing leaders are rethinking how they connect with audiences and drive long-term value.
SBC Summit Malta’s dedicated ‘Marketing Playbook’ track will support marketing stakeholders in this challenge by exploring the latest strategies to help brands stand out in a crowded marketplace, enhance player retention, and navigate Europe’s constantly evolving regulatory landscape.
Attendees of the track will learn how to craft unique, AI-powered campaigns that break through industry noise, create distinctive and engaging content tailored to specific regions and player needs, and apply data-driven approaches to boost player retention and loyalty. The track will also feature discussions on operating in strictly regulated markets, offering insights into how successful brands have delicately balanced compliance with creativity, and whether such regulations are genuinely protecting players or, in fact, driving them toward unregulated markets.
Speakers:
- Jekaterina Dubnicka, Head of Marketing and Communications, Slotsjudge: Jekaterina Dubnicka has been Head of Marketing & Communications at Slotsjudge since September 2024, holding a strong background in digital, B2B, and affiliate marketing. Panel: ‘How to Create a More Unique Campaign with AI content’
- Catie Di Stefano, Marketing Director, Vegas Kings: Catie Di Stefano is the Marketing Director at Vegas Kings, bringing over 14 years of online gambling expertise across casino, sports, lottery, and affiliation. With prior leadership roles at OnlineGamblers.com, Smartico.ai, and TheAffiliatePlatform, she’s a seasoned strategist passionate about helping brands navigate regulation, drive market growth, and achieve long-term success. Panel: ‘How to Create a More Unique Campaign with AI content’
- Valentina Diaco, Founder, Strategic Business and iGaming Advisor, Profit Matches: Valentina Diaco is an accomplished marketing leader with over a decade of senior experience across industries like iGaming, luxury, entertainment, and automotive. As Founder of Profit Matches since September 2023, she helps businesses drive growth and profitability through AI-powered, data-driven strategies and innovative marketing solutions. Panel: ‘How to Create a More Unique Campaign with AI content’
- Styliana Kalogreadou, Head of B2B – Business Development & Customer Success,
iGATE: Styliana Kalogreadou has led B2B at iGATE since February 2024, drawing on deep expertise in business development, sales, and customer success across the iGaming and tech sectors. She focuses on driving client growth, strengthening partnerships, and guiding high-performing teams toward success. Panel: ‘Player Retention and Loyalty: Data-Driven Strategies and Key Trends for 2025-2026’ - Jelena Tomic, Head of Digital Marketing, Mega Pixel: Jelena Tomic has been Head of Digital Marketing at Mega Pixel since December 2022, bringing over a decade of experience in digital strategy and performance marketing across the iGaming and dating sectors. She excels in leading data-driven campaigns, managing cross-functional teams, and optimising digital channels. Panel: ‘Navigating Advertising Bans: Gambling Marketing Strategies in Heavily Regulated Markets’
WORKSHOPS
Alongside the conference’s dedicated conference tracks, SBC Summit Malta will also offer an array of engaging and educational workshops, designed to provide delegates with a more hands-on, interactive learning experience.
Led by experts in their respective fields, these industry workshops give delegates the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded professionals, explore shared challenges, and develop practical solutions that drive brand performance. With 17 specialised workshops on offer, the program will cover every corner of the industry — from HR, player protection, and affiliation to crafting compelling podcasts and launching a successful betting brand.
Speakers:
- Aideen Shortt, Marketing and PR Advisor, Curacao Gaming Authority: Aideen Shortt is the Marketing and PR Advisor to the Minister at the Curaçao Gaming Authority, bringing over two decades of experience in the global gambling industry. She has held senior roles at leading operators and suppliers, including Sky Bet, Coral Eurobet, Chartwell Games, and was part of the launch team at Flutter.com. Workshop: “Curaçao’s New LOK Licensing Framework: Six Months In, What’s Next?“
- Carla Vella, CEO, Neatplay: Carla Maree Vella is the CEO of Neatplay, an iGaming venture builder, with 14 years of experience spanning B2B and B2C operations across 18 markets. Known for her entrepreneurial drive and passion for emerging tech, Carla is also the founder of TalentXD, a premier recruitment firm for the iGaming industry. Workshop: ‘How to Launch & Run a Successful Betting or Gaming Operation’
- Christina Theophilos, Head of Responsible Gaming, Tonybet: Christina Theophilos is Head of Responsible Gaming at Tonybet, dedicated to safeguarding players from gambling-related harm while balancing compliance and business goals. Beyond the gaming sector, she leads workshops on suicide prevention, anti-bullying, addiction awareness, and well-being, combining empathy and education to foster safer, healthier communities. Workshop: ‘Customer Service in Gaming: Challenges and Opportunities in Identifying Problem Gamblers’
- Cristina Turbatu, CTO, Casumo: Cristina Turbatu has been CTO of Casumo since July 2023, bringing a decade of leadership in gaming technology and innovation. With a strong track record from roles at BeyondPlay and Playtech, and as a champion for diversity through Girls in Tech, she is passionate about building cutting-edge products and inclusive tech teams. Workshop: ‘Mastermind Session: Technology Challenges & Innovations’
- Gabriela Tussolini, Co-founder, The Garage: Gabriela Tussolini is a product strategist and UX leader with over a decade of experience in technology, design, and social innovation. She has worked with global firms such as KPMG, Microsoft, and Just Eat Takeaway, and now channels her expertise in data, UX, and product development at The Garage, where she co-creates sustainable, user-centric digital solutions. Workshop: ‘AI and Automation Enable Businesses to Streamline Operations, Improve Efficiency, and Elevate Customer Experiences Through Intelligent Tools and Workflows.’
- Georgia Wise, Head of Responsible Gambling, Play North: Georgia Wise has been Head of Responsible Gaming at PlayNorth since December 2023, drawing on several years of leadership experience at Videoslots. She is dedicated to advancing player protection, promoting responsible gaming practices, and fostering a safe and sustainable gaming environment. Workshop: ‘Responsible Gaming learning from the Past: Historical Cases Shaping Responsible Gaming Practices’
- Julia Weygandt, International Committee, Global Gaming Women: Julia Weygandt serves on the International Committee of Global Gaming Women and is a recognised leader in the iGaming industry, honoured with the ELG 40 Under 40, Patty Becker Award, and iGaming IDOL “Young Leader of the Year.” Currently Group CCO at CallsU, she brings a wealth of experience in operations, partnerships, and business development across leading gaming companies. Workshop: ‘What Does Empowerment Truly Look Like? The Do’s and the Don’ts’
- Justine Scerri Herrera, Deputy Chairperson, The Malta Chamber: Recently appointed as Deputy Chair of the Virtual Financial Assets Executive Committee under The Malta Chamber, Dr. Justine Scerri Herrera plays a key role in shaping the regulatory landscape for CASPs and the broader crypto industry in Malta. As the Managing Partner of MK Fintech Partners, a licensed VFA Agent and part of the Michael Kyprianou & Co. LLC group, she has spent over a decade at the forefront of crypto, fintech, and investment services law. Workshop: ‘Updates & Insights for Malta’s Crypto Assets Sector.’
- Kinga Warda, Chief Officer, Policy & International Affairs, Malta Gaming Authority: Kinga Warda serves as Chief Officer for Policy & International Affairs at the Malta Gaming Authority, where she leads strategic regulatory initiatives and international cooperation efforts. With nearly 11 years at the MGA, she has played a central role in shaping Malta’s regulatory framework and strengthening its global reputation in gaming governance. Workshop: ‘Level Up: ESG as a Business Driver in Gaming.’
- Line Mia Højrup-Petersen, Chief People Officer, Omnigame: Line Mia Højrup-Petersen has been Chief People Officer at Omnigame since September 2020, bringing deep expertise in negotiation, legal compliance, and organisational development. With a strong background in European and contract law, she drives strategic HR initiatives that support company growth and foster a thriving workplace culture. Workshop: ‘HR Trends 2025: Ensuring Wellbeing, AI Integration, and Retention in a Changing Workforce’
- Mona Motwani, Venture Capitalist, Ixia Capital: Mona Motwani is the Founding Venture Partner at Ixia Capital, leading investments in gaming, gambling, esports, and digital assets since April 2024. With a rich background spanning sports partnerships, integrity services, and sports infrastructure, she brings deep expertise and passion for scaling innovative ventures across emerging and global markets. Workshop: ‘From Startup to Acquisition: Preparing Your Business for Investment and a Successful Sale’
- Rosi Bremec, COO, Game Lounge: Rosi Bremec is the COO of Game Lounge, where she drives inclusive, data-driven leadership and fosters a collaborative, flexible work culture. Committed to gender, parental, and remote work equality, Rosi is reshaping leadership in the tech space by prioritising employee wellbeing and purpose-driven success. Workshop: ‘HR Trends 2025: Ensuring Wellbeing, AI Integration, and Retention in a Changing Workforce’
- Rozina Sidhu Koskela, Founder, The Garage: Rozina Sidhu Koskela is the Founder of The Garage and creator of Malta’s Women’s Entrepreneurial Bootcamp. With global experience across brands like GE, Volvo, and PwC, she empowers leaders and teams to drive sustainable growth, foster community, and turn ideas into impactful strategies. Workshop: ‘AI and Automation Enable Businesses to Streamline Operations, Improve Efficiency, and Elevate Customer Experiences Through Intelligent Tools and Workflows.’
- Tara Alvarez Garcia, International Committee, Global Gaming Women: Tara Alvarez Garcia, a member of the International Committee at Global Gaming Women, is the Founder of TYS Coaching and former Head of Regional Marketing at Play’n GO. With a dynamic career spanning leadership coaching, marketing, and operations, she is passionate about empowering leaders and driving impactful growth across the gaming industry. Workshop: ‘What Does Empowerment Truly Look Like? The Do’s and the Don’ts’
- Tracy Parker, Vice President, Policy, Standards and Accreditation, Responsible Gambling Council: Tracy Parker is the Senior Vice President at the Responsible Gambling Council, with a distinguished career in advancing responsible gambling policies, standards, and accreditation. With extensive leadership experience at RGC and prior roles in social responsibility at OLG and Interpraxis, she is a champion of ethical practices and sustainable gaming initiatives. Workshop: ‘Customer Service in Gaming: Challenges and Opportunities in Identifying Problem Gamblers’
- Trudy Kerr, Presenter, Motivational Speaker, and Founder, Producer and Host, The SHE Word: Trudy Kerr is a dynamic presenter, interviewer, and producer with over 20 years of global experience across design, communications, television, radio, and media production. As the founder and host of The SHE Word, she champions powerful conversations that inspire, empower, and amplify women’s voices worldwide. Workshop: ‘The Power of Podcasting – Find Your Niche, Handle the Critics & Grow Your Audience’
- Valentina Diaco, Founder, Strategic Business and iGaming Advisor, Profit Matches: Valentina Diaco is an accomplished marketing leader with over a decade of senior experience across industries like iGaming, luxury, entertainment, and automotive. As Founder of Profit Matches since September 2023, she helps businesses drive growth and profitability through AI-powered, data-driven strategies and innovative marketing solutions. Panel: ‘Building Your Professional Brand: Strategies for Effective Content and Personal Impact’
Secure your spot at SBC Summit Malta with our discounted ‘Group Pass’. For groups of three or more, you can gain access to three days of networking, exhibition, and conference content for the price of €400 (a discount of €200 off a standard ticket).
Additionally, you can purchase our ‘Expo+ Pass’ for €150. This pass grants you access to the conference and exhibition only.
Operators and affiliates can apply for complimentary passes.
