As we draw the curtain on the 2024 iGB Most Influential Women campaign, it’s time to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who played a part in its success. This includes those who nominated candidates, the dedicated iGB team who spearheaded the marketing and campaign launch, and of course, the judges who meticulously sifted through lengthy submissions and profiles of the shortlisted women.
The Most Influential Women initiative is truly a passion project and a commitment that will continue to thrive at iGB for years to come. Now, let’s shine a spotlight on the final three winners of the 2024 Most Influential Women title:
### Lois Bright
*Director of Africa & ME at The Conexus Group; Co-founder of Initiate International; Founder of Women in Gaming Africa*
“When you’ve worked diligently and finally receive acknowledgment, the feeling is simply exhilarating,” remarks Lois Bright. And rightly so. Bright, a powerhouse behind [Women in Gaming Africa](https://www.womeningamingafrica.org/), has transformed a modest LinkedIn group into a thriving 500-member WhatsApp community and curated a series of live events across Africa. She envisions expanding mentorship, leadership, and educational schemes for African women in the gaming industry by 2025.
Originally hailing from the UK, Bright has called Africa home since 2008. After joining Pentasia in the UK in 2011, she chose to return to Africa, co-establishing Initiate International with Andrew Wicks. Reflecting on those early days, she recounts, “I took a leap of faith with a meager salary, essentially venturing into a startup. It was daunting and challenging, but establishing ourselves was crucial.”
Recognizing South Africa’s potential in the gaming industry, Bright persevered. Now, through Women in Gaming Africa, she aims to foster a diverse pool of talent. “Combining passion with purpose,” she wishes to secure funding to amplify gaming opportunities for women, making the industry more inclusive and supportive. By 2025, she hopes to celebrate significant achievements, such as scholarships and grants enabling African women to participate in prestigious programs and trade shows.
### Heidi McNeil Staudenmaier
*Partner, Snell & Wilmer*
Heidi McNeil Staudenmaier’s distinguished career as a legal advocate for tribes and related businesses is filled with accolades, but her drive to innovate in gaming law and advocate for diversity remains strong. With nearly four decades at Snell & Wilmer, Staudenmaier was instrumental in developing the firm’s renowned gaming law practice.
Her influence extends throughout the US, representing a range of stakeholders in gaming, and she has been hailed by numerous esteemed legal directories. Notably, she broke the glass ceiling as the first female president of the International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL).
“The gaming realm has traditionally been male-dominated, but today, women are climbing the ranks, even reaching the CEO level,” Staudenmaier states. Her notable career milestone included negotiating Arizona’s gaming compacts that paved the way for sports betting in 2021. The campaign by iGB emphasizes the importance of promoting female visibility within gaming, echoing Staudenmaier’s prominent leadership in tribal governance.
### Jennifer Innes
*CEO, BettingJobs*
Jennifer Innes views initiatives like Most Influential Women as critical for showcasing female expertise in the industry and nurturing future leaders. As Innes shares, “It’s vital to spotlight women leaders for support and guidance.” Looking back on her entry into the gaming industry 18 years ago with BettingJobs, her experience as the first female recruit was eye-opening.
Innes notes the industry’s evolution over her career, with a notable rise in women climbing the professional ladder. BettingJobs reported a 15% surge in female placements over the past year, and a more regulated, modern industry landscape than before.
Although progress has been made, Innes believes more remains to be done. She is committed to closing the gender pay gap and providing role models for women to realize their potential. Her motto, “If you don’t see it, you can’t be it,” reflects her dedication to mentoring young women to reach senior positions within the organization. At home, she sets a powerful example for her eight-year-old twins by balancing her responsibilities as a mother and CEO.
In her personal career journey, Innes feels deeply proud of her accomplishments, from prestigious nominations to establishing a successful enterprise and online presence. These recognitions not only validate her efforts but are crucial in strengthening community ties among women in the gaming sector, paving the way for broader change.
The iGB publication has unveiled its entire line-up of the 10 Most Influential Women in gaming for 2024. For further insights, follow [part one](https://igamingbusiness.com/people/most-influential-women-2024-winners/) and [part two](http://igamingbusiness.com/people/most-influential-women-2024-winners-2/). Details about this year’s judging panel are available [here](https://igamingbusiness.com/people/most-influential-women-24-judges-1/) and [here](https://igamingbusiness.com/people/most-influential-women-24-judges-2/).