A diverse group of women has been highlighted in this year’s iGB’s Most Influential Women list, vividly showcasing the varied sub-sectors, roles, and personalities within the gaming world. Spanning careers in PR, communication, gaming law, marketing, recruitment, and sales, these women have united under the shared themes of influence and inspiration, making a significant impact among their peers.
The recipients of this recognition expressed humility upon being honored in this seventh annual edition. The call for submissions began in October, and an esteemed panel of judges was convened. When submissions closed at the end of October, the judging process underwent changes, incorporating a scoring system to evaluate nominees based on their transformative contributions within their roles at both company and industry levels.
Judges assessed the candidates’ visibility in the sector, their companies, and their potential to effect future changes. The panel was impressed with the caliber of the nominees and ultimately reached a consensus on the final 10.
We extend thanks to everyone who submitted nominations, the judges for their dedication, and those recognized this year for their impactful contributions to our field.
Our first three Most Influential Women of 2024 are:
### Grainne Hurst
**CEO, Betting and Gaming Council (BGC)**
Grainne Hurst, a prominent name due to her significant role in the UK gambling industry’s main trade body, took charge of the BGC in September. She quickly embarked on her duties, releasing a report on gambling’s black market in the UK and advocating for a more comprehensive approach to tackling the issue beyond enforcement. Her transition occurred during a crucial period marked by major reforms introduced by the previous government.
Hurst reflects on the immense work ahead, emphasizing the implementation of proposals from last year’s white paper. She acknowledges the essential role played by BGC members in supporting both local and national economies through taxes and valuable employment.
#### Black Market Battle
Confronting the black market is a priority for Hurst. She aims to distinguish between legitimate organizations and the unregulated gambling black market, asserting the need for continual promotion and enhancement of BGC members’ roles in the leisure and tourism sectors. Recognizing the international scope of the challenge, she highlights collaborations with global trade bodies and the importance of keeping the issue in the spotlight.
#### Career Preparations
Hurst, with her civil service background and corporate affairs experience at Entain, is poised to handle the scrutiny that comes with her position. As a board member of Global Gaming Women and a recipient of the Patty Becker “Pay It Forward” award, she has earned respect among peers and is committed to advancing women in the industry.
### Purity Wahiu
**Director and Managing Partner, Stellar Bets**
Purity Wahiu’s career in gaming took off in 2017, culminating in her current role at Stellar Bets after transitioning from Palms Bet in November 2024. Her journey began as a retail training specialist at Betin, with subsequent roles at Inbet and DafaBet. Wahiu attributes her progress to a strong network and personal integrity.
Despite initial skepticism, Wahiu’s belief in herself has driven her success. She is passionate about fostering an inclusive and diverse industry, encouraging women to take on leadership roles and thrive in innovation-driven environments.
### A New Generation of Women in Gaming
Wahiu points to individuals like esports pioneer Faith Dorothy Ahurira and Emily Asava, who are leading the charge for women in the industry. She aims to leverage her training skills to attract more talent, especially women, into gaming, emphasizing the importance of being heard and included.
Recognizing her contributions by being named one of iGB’s Most Influential Women for 2024 is a significant honor for Wahiu, highlighting her journey from a procurement role to a key figure in the gaming sector.
### Erica L Okerberg
**Vice Chair of Gaming Practice and Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig**
Erica Okerberg cherishes the recognition as part of the iGB Most Influential Women campaign, acknowledging the impressive previous winners. Her legal expertise in the evolving gaming industry spans land-based and online casino operators, sports wagering, and private equity funds, providing her with extensive sector insights.
Mentorship has played a vital role in Okerberg’s career, and she is committed to supporting and nurturing young women exploring opportunities in the industry. Celebrating women’s successes is crucial, promoting gender diversity and inspiring future leaders. Okerberg has received multiple accolades, including the GGW’s Patty Becker “Pay It Forward” award and being named in Chambers USA’s Best Lawyers in America campaign and the Vegas Inc “40 Under 40” list.
Over the upcoming week, iGB will unveil its complete list of the 10 Most Influential Women in gaming for 2024. This year’s judging panel details can be accessed [here](https://igamingbusiness.com/people/most-influential-women-24-judges-1/) and [here](https://igamingbusiness.com/people/most-influential-women-24-judges-2/).
