Day Two started on a high note with opening remarks from the Chairperson, Christina Thakor-Rankin, Principal Consultant, 1710 Gaming Ltd, who mentioned, "I think we can all agree, yesterday's discussions were not local, it was internationally relevant." A taste of what the day holds was given along with a few words that boosted the anticipation for the day, "You need to think, today, of what you need to do in the future to ensure a sustainable business in 20 or 30 years."

The first panel discussion of the day – "SEO Trends 2022" was moderated by Christina Thakor-Rankin, Principal Consultant, 1710 Gaming Ltd. Panellists included, Edoardo Ganetti, Head of SEO, Casumo, Jesper Ekstrom, SEO Expert, Raketech, Marta Szmidt, Head of SEO, Evolution Gaming, Vadim Aidlin, Head of SEO, Betsson Group. During this discussion the question was asked, "What will the biggest SEO trend be in 2022?" Panellist, Marta Szmidt answered, "I truly believe that the Google updated AI, MUM, will impact the igaming niche and change the way users search."

The second panel followed – "How to break into Africa's gaming market – exploring strategies that work best". Moderator, Devon Dalbock, General Manager, GLI, was joined by panellists, Conor O'Donovan, Head of Parimatch Africa, Parimatch International, Lombo Mphande, Executive Director, Bitville Gaming South Africa (Pty) Ltd. and William Scott, Director, Warrenside Limited. Interesting conversations took place – Fundi Sithebe, CEO, 4Racing, started a discussion around strategies to localise the gaming industry within the unique nuances in the African market. 

Five successful women gathered during the third panel session to discuss, "Women in top positions in the gaming industry – how to expand more?" Moderator, Christina Thakor-Rankin, Principal Consultant, 1710 Gaming Ltd., UK was joined by Amy Jones, Director, Truter Jones Inc., Emily Asava, Sales and Business Development Manager, TVBET, Fundi Sithebe, CEO, 4Racing and Lois Bright, Managing Director, Initiate International. The conversation opened important factors that need to be addressed in the gaming, gambling and sports betting industry. Emily Asava mentioned, "There are a lot of female footballers, but they are not being captured." Not only did the discussion touch on the growth experienced and the developments still needed in regards to gender inequality, but also the strategies required to empower Generation Z females.

"We need to think about the next generation of leaders – get them into the industry as soon as possible. We need to retain the women we are recruiting, so that they do not believe that another industry is better for them. " – Lois Bright

A joint presentation followed – "Virtual vs Casino". Patrick Alike, Business Development Manager, Pragmatic Play and Teleko Lekopa, Senior Account Manager, Pragmatic Play, delivered an insightful presentation that encouraged the audience's engagement.

Mik Adler, Chief Marketing Officer, FuseBox Online, took the floor for a presentation – "Virtual & Augmented Reality, the future of Gaming & Casinos." This was an interesting look into the future of the gaming industry. Mik advised businesses to buy into the innovations of technology, as he mentioned, "With this new technology, we are going to see massive companies rise. These companies recognised these technologies and got into it early."

The final panel for the day – "Own platform vs using a third platform – Looking at the advantages and disadvantages" – concluded the fulfilment of an extraordinary summit. Moderator, Mark Tipping, Consultant, Gaming4Africa, was joined by panellists, Annalisa Naidoo, Product and Business Development Specialist, Bitville Gaming, Lombo Mphande, Executive Director, Bitville Gaming South Africa (Pty) Ltd. and Martin Sack, Founder and Director, Brainstorm Online (Pty) Ltd.

The Chairperson, Christina Thakor- Rankin, Principal Consultant at 1710 Gaming Ltd., UK, ended off the conference for Day Two with her closing remarks. Refreshing networking drinks, proudly sponsored by EI Networking, were served while all attendees enjoyed each other's company. One of our dear friends, Martin Sack, had his birthday. There were cake, balloons, bubbly and joyous laughs. Happy Birthday, Martin, Eventus International is happy to have you in our presence.

Eventus International would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the speakers of the 8th Annual BiG Africa Summit for sharing their insights and experiences with our international C-level audience. We would also like to thank all our supporters and sponsors: BetConstruct, Emirat AG, Melbet Affiliates, NascentEdge, Elite Executives, Global Bet and EI Networking.

It has been an absolute pleasure reconnecting with the gaming, gambling and sports betting family!

Arrange your meetings with top gaming operators from the African continent by registering today and announcing your attendance! For more information contact: info@eventus-international.com