The most influential women in the gambling business in 2023, as identified by the professional resource Igamingbusiness (IGB), openly discussed their internal struggle with insecurity and the prevalence of sexism in the industry. They also shared the secrets of their significant success and their personal experiences in leading large companies.
Lina Sennevall
Senior Account Director, Square in the Air, London, UK
Lina Sennevall is honoured to be named one of iGB's most influential women in the industry and notes that a lot has changed in her decade in the gambling business, but there is still a lot to be done. “In an ideal world, these awards wouldn't be necessary,” she says, “but in a male-dominated environment, it's fantastic that we're recognising the work of women who are making our industry better for everyone involved, not just a certain demographic.”
Sennevall has a passion for the gambling business that has motivated her in every leadership position she has held, from her position as a senior reporter at Gambling Compliance to her current position as a director at leading marketing company Square in the Air.
“I really find our sector interesting, there is a huge amount of change happening all the time in different areas of the industry. Everything changes: technology, regulations and requirements, new products are constantly being developed, innovative technologies are being introduced, we are working to develop a responsible attitude towards gambling and CSR. All this is very interesting. And this passion and interest that I have for the industry makes me strive forward, learn, improve and enhance my knowledge. And at the same time, I get great pleasure from my work. I really love this business."
However, Sennevall shared that women have to work much harder than men to be taken seriously in the gambling industry, which has been a major challenge throughout her career. “I'm glad things have improved since I entered the sector more than a decade ago, but I still see and hear signs of sexism,” she says. “It’s important to fight to attract women into the industry today because men make up the majority of applicants when we have vacancies and that’s a problem.”
Presenting at events is one step toward addressing the male-dominated industry, she says: “More women speaking at events and building their personal brands can, I think, help increase the number of successful women in our industry.”
Cheryl Jones
President, Odds On Compliance, Florida, USA
Cheryl Jones sees being named Industry Woman of the Year as a testament to the support she has received throughout her career. “This achievement is of great significance not only to me but also to those who have consistently supported me as I pursued a career in the gambling business. Receiving this award is a testament to my values and perseverance as a woman in our industry.”
Jones notes that some progress has been made regarding gender equality in the workplace. However, Jones believes action needs to be taken to ensure truly equal opportunities, especially at the start, for both men and women in the industry.
“More people than ever before believe that women have an equal opportunity to achieve social and leadership positions. But these sentiments are not enough to make a significant difference in actual promotions. Bias against women continues to be a barrier. To overcome rigid gender attitudes, organizations need to develop their approach to gender parity and create structures and systems that work for both women and men.”
In her professional life, Jones has done everything she can to put the message of gender equality into practice. At Odds On Compliance, she founded Women Leading Women, an organization dedicated to women working in gaming, sports, and technology.
“I make myself available for mentorship, actively promote a culture of diversity and inclusion, and advocate for the professional development of women in the industry,” she explains. A successful woman believes in the power of female interaction and community but understands that ultimately the motivation to forge her own path in a male-dominated industry must come from within. You need to have a strong inner core.
“I constantly say that you need to build your own career on your own; it is important to express your opinion, to be active; don't wait for someone to come and give you opportunities. Create opportunities, create the reality you want to see yourself in, use your fear as motivation, and don't shy away from challenges. Overcoming challenges is the path to success.”
Brianna Dhowra-Chavol
CEO and founder of Doura-Schawohl Consulting LLC, Virginia, USA
Brianna Dhowra-Chavol felt extremely honoured to be named to the IGB Women of the Year list. “As a female business owner committed to making a difference and creating a new path, I feel so grateful and proud,” she says.
The CEO and founder of Doura-Schawohl Consulting LLC humbly attributes her success to the community that has rallied around her. “Success doesn’t mean you go it alone or never fail,” she adds. Dhowra-Chavol also emphasises that as an entrepreneur, wife, and mother, she often faces the need to make difficult decisions, sacrifices and risks.
“I have mentors, colleagues, clients, family and friends - people who believe in me, who truly believe in what I do and what I'm trying to build - that's my secret.”
Doura-Chavol also admits her mistakes and tries to quickly adjust when things don't go as planned professionally. She also said that she was getting better at formulating requests for help and support if it was really needed.
“I would like to believe that these qualities do not make me weak, but rather allow me to continue to grow and develop as a person and a leader,” she says.
Another thing the CEO has come to terms with is the adage that “women can have it all.” “Whoever said that lied. No one can have everything. When I travel for business, I sacrifice time at home with my family, and when my family needs me, I may miss out on potential business opportunities,” says Dura-Shavol. “It's all about priorities and being happy with the choices you make and the balance you want to create for yourself.”
One of the biggest challenges to Doura Shawol's success was gaining self-confidence. She admits that, like many women, she suffered from impostor syndrome.
“I've felt on more than one occasion that because I didn't have many female mentors or wasn't exposed to other female leaders in the games industry, I somehow didn't belong or wouldn't be accepted. I also worried a couple of times that I only got the job because I was a woman.”
However, by letting go of these mental attitudes, the CEO was able to find herself and change her state of mind. “I have found great happiness in knowing that I am capable enough, that I am accepted by men and women in the industry because of my contributions, not my gender, and that I do have a meaningful place and role in the sector.”
