Casino Guru announces four new award categories for Casino Guru Awards 2026, expanding its mission to recognize those shaping a fairer & safer iGaming industry. The 2026 ceremony will be held on May 25 at The Xara Lodge in Malta, in partnership with NEXT.io during NEXT Valletta, recognizing the exceptional accomplishments of the global iGaming
Casino Guru announces four new award categories for Casino Guru Awards 2026, expanding its mission to recognize those shaping a fairer & safer iGaming industry.
The 2026 ceremony will be held on May 25 at The Xara Lodge in Malta, in partnership with NEXT.io during NEXT Valletta, recognizing the exceptional accomplishments of the global iGaming industry.
New categories introduced this year highlight Casino Guru’s dedication to recognizing rising talent, ethical leadership, and a positive workplace culture.
Woman Leader of the Year
This category is for a female leader whose vision has been the driving force behind the company, as well as the entire industry due to her vision, determination, and strategic influence. The judges will take into consideration business expansion, crisis management, user experience innovations, safety, transparency, and responsible gaming during 2024-2025.
Young Changemaker Award
The Young Changemaker Award recognizes an individual under 30 who has made an impact in 2025 through ethical innovation, creativity, and forward-thinking initiatives. Judges will look for originality, leadership, and tangible achievements that set a new standard for integrity and progress within iGaming.
Industry Culture Shaper
This award celebrates companies that understand real industry progress begins from within. It honors companies that create the most supportive, open, and positive work environments. The jury will count not just employee satisfaction, retention, and overall productivity, but also psychological health, mental wellness, career growth, and ethical practices in HR. Companies working on raising the standards together with society through their partnerships, advocacy, or knowledge sharing will be given extra credit.
Rising Star in Responsible Gambling
This award celebrates organizations that are making notable early progress in safer gambling. It recognizes companies of all sizes that show commitment and innovation through tools, awareness campaigns, or new approaches to player protection. Nominees should be able to demonstrate measurable results that raise the bar for responsibility and safety across the industry.
Daniela Sliva, PR & Creative Project Director at Casino Guru and leader of the Awards project, said:
“The addition of these categories marks an important evolution for the Casino Guru Awards. By spotlighting leadership, emerging talent, responsible innovation, and culture, we are amplifying the people and values that will define the future of iGaming. These awards aim to inspire positive change at every level, from individual contributors to global operators.”
The new categories will be positioned next to Casino Guru’s established awards, which consist of The Fairest Bonus Policy, The Most Transparent Casino, The Best Implementation of Responsible Gambling Tools, as well as others that demonstrate the core principles of Casino Guru.