SBC Summit Latinoamérica is just a few months away from welcoming 4,000 industry professionals eager to hear the latest insights, regional strategies, and emerging trends from leading voices in the Latin American region.
Scheduled for October 29-31 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, the event will feature an exhibition floor showcasing the latest offerings from 70 regional and global brands, dedicated industry meet-ups, and a host of evening networking events.
The summit’s conference agenda includes over 30 educational sessions spread across two days, featuring insights from 200 industry experts. These seasoned professionals will share their experiences and discuss the latest opportunities and challenges in their respective fields.
To aid delegates in familiarising themselves with the speaker profiles set to feature across the event, we have provided an in-depth look at some of the leading voices in the industry who will be appearing at SBC Summit Latinoamérica.
Tatiana Calderon, Colombian Motorsport Driver, Gradient Racing
Tatiana Calderon Noguera, born on 10 March 1993, is a Colombian racing driver currently competing in the 2024 IMSA SportsCar Championship with Gradient Racing. She has previously driven for Drago Corse with ThreeBond in the Super Formula Championship and Richard Mille Racing in the FIA World Endurance Championship.
Starting her racing career in go-karts at nine, Calderón was the first woman to win national karting championships in Colombia and the United States. At 17, she moved to car racing, securing podiums in the 2011 Star Mazda Championship, a victory in the 2014 Florida Winter Series, and a runner-up finish in the 2015–16 MRF Challenge Formula 2000 Championship. Calderón made history as the first woman to podium in the British Formula 3 International Series and lead a lap in the FIA Formula 3 European Championship. She competed in the GP3 Series from 2016 to 2018 and the 2019 FIA Formula 2 Championship. Additionally, she served as a development and test driver for Sauber Formula One, later Alfa Romeo Racing, from 2018 to 2021.
Calderon will kick off the ‘Leaders’ track on Wednesday, October 30th, the first main day of the event. This panel, part of the ‘Leaders’ track, will provide delegates with valuable insights into the competitive racing industry.
Gonzalo Perez, CEO, Apuesta Total
Gonzalo Perez started his first company at the age of 25 and has since ventured into the transportation, sports betting, baby food, and restaurant industries. He strongly believes in teamwork, and a long-term business vision and is passionate about finding solutions. Traveling and learning about other cultures, especially with his family, are among his greatest joys.
Since February 2009, Perez has owned MGA Soluciones Logisticas and expanded his ventures to include Trucking Network since June 2011 and Valley Crops LTD since August 2018. He has been the General Manager of Bet Bar since November 2015 and the CEO of ApuestaTotal since April 2018. Additionally, he served as the Sports Betting Manager for Corporación PJ from March 2017 to February 2018 and has been the CEO of Marcadores247.com since February 2022.
Perez will participate in the panel titled ‘Regulatory Tango: Navigating LatAm’s Gaming Landscape’ on Wednesday, October 30th. As part of the ‘Leaders’ track, this panel will offer an in-depth analysis of the Latin American regulatory environment. It will explore strategies for online operators to ensure regulatory consistency while expanding in a market with millions of sports enthusiasts.
JD Duarte, CEO, Betcris
Jose Daniel Duarte, also known as JD Duarte, brings 25 years of experience to his roles across various industries. Fluent in three languages and a recipient of five iGaming industry awards, Duarte has achieved a remarkable 95% employee satisfaction rate. Over the past two decades, he has led innovative ventures and company expansions across Latin America, Europe, and Asia. As CEO of Betcris, Duarte manages a licensed sports betting platform, showcasing his expertise in business agility, fintech, and e-commerce.
Duarte’s career began with founding DecoCar in Heredia, Costa Rica, where he expanded from vehicle accessories to custom installations. His success led to a partnership with Larry Hernandez at DLB Group Worldwide, where he applied his marketing skills across Mexico, Venezuela, and Costa Rica, securing major clients like Bridgestone and DHL. Duarte’s leadership at Betcris underscores his commitment to operational excellence and secure, regulated entertainment, and he is currently exploring exciting new ventures in software development.
Duarte will participate in the panel titled ‘Regulatory Tango: Navigating LatAm’s Gaming Landscape’ on Wednesday, October 30th. As part of the ‘Leaders’ track, this panel will offer an in-depth analysis of the Latin American regulatory environment. It will explore strategies for online operators to ensure regulatory consistency while expanding in a market with millions of sports enthusiasts.
João André Gerçossimo, CEO, EstrelaBet
João André Gerçossimo is a leading figure in the industry, driven by a passion for entrepreneurship and innovation. As the founder and CEO of EstrelaBet, which he has led since January 2019, Gercossimo has turned a bold vision into reality, focusing on delivering enjoyable experiences for Brazilians around the clock. His leadership at EstrelaBet reflects his belief in viewing challenges as opportunities and his commitment to pioneering success with a dedicated team.
In addition to his role at EstrelaBet, Gercossimo is an active investor with Cena2k and a partner at Suprema Gaming & CO, where he contributes his expertise to expanding the gaming sector. He is also a co-founder of SX Grupo, a position he has held since January 2018. Gercossimo’s entrepreneurial journey continues to evolve as he embraces new ventures and opportunities, always with the same dreamer’s spirit that sparked his career.
Gercossimo will feature on the panel titled ‘Brazil’s Betting Boom – What’s Next for the Market?’ on Wednesday, October 30th. The panel, which will commence the ‘Sports Betting & Media’ conference track will offer insights into the flourishing Brazilian market and explore its future prospects. It will address key questions such as how operators can leverage Brazil’s growth, the potential for new mergers and acquisitions, possible regulatory changes, and innovative market strategies. Additionally, the discussion will focus on how operators can distinguish themselves in a competitive landscape.
Alex Fonseca, CEO, Superbet
Alex Fonseca is a seasoned iGaming professional with over 15 years of experience in Brazil’s gaming market. Fluent in three languages, Fonseca has showcased his passion for driving innovation and growth in the industry through his deep understanding of local market dynamics and regulatory frameworks. As CEO of Superbet Brazil since September 2023, he oversees operations and strategic direction in one of the most competitive gaming environments.
Fonseca began his notable career by founding Bonafides Gestão de Pagamentos in September 2019, where he focused on financial services and payment solutions. He also founded Altor Consulting in January 2021, providing expert guidance to iGaming operators entering the Brazilian market. Previously, as the Country Manager for Betano Brazil from April 2021 to September 2023, he played a pivotal role in establishing the brand as a market leader. Additionally, Fonseca has held significant roles in various companies, including Fator Mercantil, which he founded in March 2016, and PokerDicas, where he served as Managing Director from February 2012 to January 2022. His extensive experience and strategic leadership continue to influence the iGaming industry
Fonseca will feature on the panel titled ‘Brazil’s Betting Boom – What’s Next for the Market?’ on Wednesday, October 30th. The panel, which will commence the ‘Sports Betting & Media’ conference track will offer insights into the flourishing Brazilian market and explore its future prospects. It will address key questions such as how operators can leverage Brazil’s growth, the potential for new mergers and acquisitions, possible regulatory changes, and innovative market strategies. Additionally, the discussion will focus on how operators can distinguish themselves in a competitive landscape.
Livia Troise: CEO, Betmais
Starting with a foundation in project planning and execution, Livia Troise began her professional journey at the Spanish insurer MAPFRE where she discovered a passion for numbers. A significant portion of her professional journey was dedicated to account management and commercial roles, which enhanced her ability to address customer needs.
Troise joined Betmais in 2020 before assuming the role of CEO at the company in 2021. During this time, Troise has developed a keen interest in data analysis and technology, both of which are integral to her work. The Betmais CEO excels at navigating the daily challenges of anticipating industry changes, fostering innovative thinking, and pursuing advancements within the iGaming sector. She leads a dynamic and collaborative team, combining an analytical approach with a relentless drive for impactful results.
Troise will feature on the panel titled ‘Brazil’s Betting Boom – What’s Next for the Market?’ on Wednesday, October 30th. The panel, which will commence the ‘Sports Betting & Media’ conference track will offer insights into the flourishing Brazilian market and explore its future prospects. It will address key questions such as how operators can leverage Brazil’s growth, the potential for new mergers and acquisitions, possible regulatory changes, and innovative market strategies. Additionally, the discussion will focus on how operators can distinguish themselves in a competitive landscape.
Iliana Pineda, Chief Legal Officer and Compliance Officer, Wplay
Iliana Pineda is a distinguished executive with over 15 years of experience leading legal and interdisciplinary teams across various sectors. Currently serving as the Chief Legal Officer and Compliance Officer at Aquila Global Group S.A.S. / Wplay.co since October 2020, Pineda oversees the company’s legal affairs and the implementation of AML/CFT/FPADM prevention systems. Her role emphasizes strategic legal management and compliance within the dynamic gaming industry.
Her extensive career includes pivotal roles in both public and private sectors. Prior to her current position, Pineda advised on public family welfare services with the Colombian Institute of Family Welfare (ICBF) from November 2018 to November 2019 and managed contracting for the Computadores para Educar program from April 2017 to November 2018. She has also contributed significantly to educational and social development projects through roles at the Government of Antioquia and the Mayor’s Office of Medellín. Her broad expertise encompasses strategic planning, contract management, and regulatory compliance, demonstrating her commitment to driving efficiency and innovation in every role she undertakes.
Pineda will appear on the session ‘Protecting the Future: Combating Influences of Underage Gambling’ on Wednesday, October 30th. As part of the ‘Leaders’ track, the panel will seek to explore the problem of underage gambling. The panel will tackle the issue of underage gambling, examining whether video game microtransactions may be a precursor to gambling addiction among youth. It will also explore the role of technology in mitigating this problem and discuss strategies for the industry to safeguard young people from harm.
Joaquín Gago, CEO, BETANDEAL
Joaquín Gago is a dynamic entrepreneur with a diverse career spanning military service, esports, and iGaming. After starting his studies in Business Administration at the University of Salamanca and transitioning from the General Military Academy of Spanish Army Officers to a lieutenant position with service in Afghanistan, Gago realized that his true passions lay elsewhere. His time in the military, including his role as a Signals Corp Officer and receiving the NATA medal, was marked by personal challenges and growth.
In 2016, Gago co-founded Wild Gaming, an esports team, but shifted focus as the venture evolved. By 2019, he founded BetanDeal.com, an iGaming affiliate specializing in promoting online gambling brands in the Spanish market. This move allowed Gago to channel his interests in poker and sports betting into a professional career. Alongside his entrepreneurial ventures, Gago has pursued further education in sports management and marketing, including studies at LaLiga Business School. His journey reflects a continuous quest for personal and professional fulfillment, embracing opportunities and learning from each experience along the way.
Gago will participate in the panel titled ‘Regulatory Tango: Navigating LatAm’s Gaming Landscape’ on Wednesday, October 30th. As part of the ‘Leaders’ track, this panel will offer an in-depth analysis of the Latin American regulatory environment. It will explore strategies for online operators to ensure regulatory consistency while expanding in a market with millions of sports enthusiasts.
Additionally, he will appear on the panel ‘Strategic Approaches to Affiliate Marketing Success in LATAM’, which is set to open the ‘Affiliates & Advertising’ track on Wednesday, October 30th. Discussions will focus on the future of affiliate marketing over the next five years, strategies for new affiliates to ensure long-term growth, and the benefits operators can derive from partnerships with affiliates.
Dr. Evert Montero Cárdenas, President, Fecoljuegos
Dr. Evert Montero Cárdenas boasts over 30 years of expertise in health management, social organizations, and management development across both public and private sectors. Since 2014, he has served as the president of The Colombian Federation of Entrepreneurs of Games of Luck and Chance (Fecoljuegos), a non-profit union entity uniting entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and suppliers of games of luck and chance.
Under his leadership at Fecoljuegos, Cárdenas has championed modernization, growth, and social responsibility in the gaming sector, working closely with the Colombian government. He has been instrumental in implementing key policies, such as the Code of Good Self-Regulation Practices, to uphold industry professionalism. Additionally, Cárdenas has collaborated with organizations like the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA) to launch numerous initiatives benefiting both players and the broader industry.
Cárdenas will be appearing on the panel ‘Cracking Down: Strengthening Regulations Against Illegal Online Gambling Sites’ which will take place on Wednesday, October 30th, on the ‘Sports Betting & Media’ track. This session will tackle the escalating issue of illegal gambling sites and explore ways to develop a more effective regulatory framework that protects consumers while unlocking the industry’s economic potential. The discussion will focus on collaborative strategies between regulators and operators to combat these illicit platforms.
Anton Rublievskyi, CEO, Growe
Anton Rublievskyi is the CEO of Growe, a leading iGaming company operating in 10 countries. Rublievskyi joined PMI (later rebranded as Growe) in September 2019, where he led the international expansion of iGaming products across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. He assumed the role of CEO in August 2023. His focus is on expanding into emerging markets and fostering growth through strategic partnerships and innovative business models. Under his leadership, Growe emphasizes building strong teams and unlocking opportunities in the iGaming and entertainment sectors.
Before joining Growe, Rublievskyi held several key positions. He was the CEO of Creative Media from June 2007 to September 2013, during which he oversaw Technoportal.ua and Autoportal.ua. He then served as CEO and Managing Partner at Creative Webmedia Pvt. Ltd. from September 2013 to September 2019. During this time, he also founded and managed AutoPortal India from November 2013 to September 2019, transforming it into India’s largest online car marketplace with a GMV of $100 million per year.
Rublievskyi will be speaking on the panel ‘Transforming Omnichannel Strategies for the Modern Day’, taking place on Wednesday, October 30th, as part of the ‘Leaders’ track. This session will explore how brick-and-mortar gambling establishments can successfully transition to the digital landscape. Attendees will gain insights into the safe implementation of automation and the key considerations for moving online, including new technologies, cybersecurity, and regional regulations.
Fernando Garita, CEO, Betsul
Fernando Garita has been instrumental in Betcris’ expansion across Latin America, committed to delivering top-notch live sports betting experiences and creating localized offerings in each market. With over 19 years at Betcris, Garita’s contributions have been pivotal in the company’s growth and success in the region. His dedication and expertise have established him as a key figure in the industry, working alongside celebrated CEO JD Duarte to drive Betcris forward.
Garita joined Betcris In 2011, where he served as Head of Business Development for over a decade. In August 2023, he founded GCS Gaming and became CEO of Betsul in November 2023. His leadership and vision continue to shape the iGaming landscape in Latin America, reinforcing his reputation as a significant contributor to the sector’s ongoing development and innovation.
Garita will be speaking on the panel ‘Transforming Omnichannel Strategies for the Modern Day’, taking place on Wednesday, October 30th, as part of the ‘Leaders’ track. This session will explore how brick-and-mortar gambling establishments can successfully transition to the digital landscape. Attendees will gain insights into the safe implementation of automation and the key considerations for moving online, including new technologies, cybersecurity, and regional regulations.
Karen Sierra-Hughes, Vice President, Latin America Caribbean & Spain, GLI
Karen Sierra-Hughes has been a pivotal figure at Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) since 2004, leading efforts to develop new gaming jurisdictions across Latin America and the Caribbean. Currently serving as Vice President of Latin America, the Caribbean, and Spain, Sierra-Hughes has been instrumental in shaping GLI’s regulatory and supplier strategies. With a Law Degree and a Master’s Degree in Commercial and Public Law from the Latin America University of Science and Technology, Sierra-Hughes has significantly contributed to the development of gaming laws, decrees, and regulations in the region.
Before joining GLI, Sierra-Hughes held the position of Director of the Legal Advisory Department at the Panama Gaming Control Board from 2002 to 2004. There, she coordinated legal efforts, wrote regulations, and acted as Director Ad-Hoc during absences. She also worked as an Associate Attorney in the Administrative and Public Law Department at SUCRE ARIAS REYES, where she advised on various legal matters, including gaming law and commercial promotions. Sierra-Hughes’ extensive experience and dedication have made her a key player in the gaming industry, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Sierra-Hughes will be appearing on the panel ‘Transnational Regulatory Convergence: Charting a Course for Unified Legislation’, on Wednesday, October 30th, as part of the ‘Leaders’ track. This session will explore whether the industry is on the verge of initiating a movement toward cross-border regulatory alignment. The panel will analyze regulatory patterns in both large and small markets and project a collaborative pathway for operators and regulators to navigate the future of gaming legislation together in Latin America.
Diego Foresi, CEO, Infinity Esports Latam
Diego Foresi boasts over two decades of experience in the chemical industry, managing and leading businesses across the Americas for prominent international brands. He began his career at H.B. Fuller, where he held various leadership positions from 1998 to 2011, including Strategic Account Manager (1998-2003), Geographic Sales Manager (2003-2007), and LAM North Region Director (2008-2011). He then served as Director General at Grupo Comex LATAM from 2011 to 2015, followed by his role as General Manager at PPG Industries from 2015 to 2018. His career in the chemical industry has equipped him with extensive expertise in international expansion, strategic account management, and business development.
Currently, as Group CEO of Infinity Esports since June 2018, Foresi leverages his extensive background to drive strategic vision and growth in the LATAM market. His tenure at Steren México as Director of International Expansion (2019-2020) equipped him with the skills to navigate competitive landscapes and foster new business opportunities. Under his leadership, Infinity Esports has flourished, combining financial acumen with negotiation expertise to ensure operational excellence and brand expansion in the dynamic consumer goods and esports sectors.
Foresi will be appearing on the panel titled “The Evolving Synergy Between Esports and Sports Betting” taking place on Wednesday, October 30th, as part of the ‘Sports Betting & Media’ track. This session will delve into innovative strategies and emerging opportunities at the intersection of esports and gambling. Attendees will learn how esports rights holders are forming strategic commercial partnerships within the gambling sector, creating a powerful synergy between gaming and betting, and will explore whether esports is set to become the next major market for betting.
Elizabeth Maya Cano, Presidente, CORNAZAR
Elizabeth Maya Cano has been a prominent figure in the Colombian gaming industry for over a decade. Since January 2013, she has served as President of the Corporación Nacional de Empresarios de Suerte y Azar (CORNAZAR), leading the organization in promoting transparency and best practices within the gaming industry. Her leadership at CORNAZAR has been instrumental in advancing industry standards and fostering ethical practices.
Elizabeth Maya Cano’s career in compliance and regulatory excellence began as the Director of the Association of Compliance Officers (ASOJUL), a role she held from October 2014 to October 2020. Her work focused on risk management and anti-money laundering programs, highlighting her dedication to organizational integrity and regulatory standards. Her academic credentials include a degree from Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana Medellín, which complements her extensive experience in the field.
Maya Cano will be a featured speaker on the panel ‘Advancing Safe Gaming: The Role of Technological Innovation,’ scheduled for Wednesday, October 30th, as part of the ‘Leaders’ track. This session will tackle the critical role of technology in promoting safe gaming practices. Topics will include educating the public on the dangers of gambling addiction, deploying advanced protective measures for players, developing comprehensive regulatory policies, and encouraging cooperative efforts within the industry to ensure a responsible and principled gaming culture.
Andrea Rossi, Commercial Director Latam, Betsson Group
Andrea Rossi is a seasoned leader with a robust track record in the gaming industry, demonstrating a blend of commercial acumen and strategic vision. Beginning his career at GoldBet as a Casino Manager from January 2005 to May 2007, Rossi developed targeted promotional campaigns and built strong customer relationships. He then transitioned to Chiligaming, where he managed casino operations and marketing for Chilicasino.com and Chilipoker from July 2008 to February 2012, focusing on game selection and technology integration.
Rossi’s tenure at Betsson Group began in February 2012 as Casino Manager for Italy, where he managed daily operations and promotional strategies. He advanced to Head of Casino at StarCasino.it in February 2014, driving the brand’s performance until March 2015. His leadership continued to grow as he became Managing Director for Southern Europe & LatAm from November 2017 to September 2019, and he currently serves as the Commercial Director for Southern Europe & Latam, a role he has held since September 2019. Rossi’s career is marked by his ability to lead teams, develop successful business strategies, and establish lasting relationships with stakeholders.
Rossi will be appearing on the panel titled ‘Peru: A Year Later’, set to take place on Thursday, October 31st, as part of the ‘Emerging Markets & Technology’ track. This session will explore the significant opportunities presented by Peru’s newly live online gaming market, offering insights into how retail operations are adapting or creating partnerships to incorporate remote sports betting and capitalize on this growing market.
