Spotlight on Player Health: The “New Horizons in Safer Gambling” Conference in Vancouver
As the world of gambling continues to evolve, the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) is setting the stage for a crucial dialogue on player health at the upcoming “New Horizons in Safer Gambling” conference. Scheduled from Monday to Wednesday at the Convention Centre in downtown Vancouver, this event aims to unite industry experts in exploring sustainable practices that prioritize player welfare.
A Platform for Collaboration
The conference, aptly themed around reconnection and rediscovery, promises to be an interactive space where conversations on gambling safety can flourish. Ryan McCarthy, the Director of Player Health at BCLC, encapsulated the spirit of the event by stating, “New Horizons is all about reconnection and rediscovery.” According to McCarthy, the conference is not only about sharing achievements within the gambling sector but also about innovating and advancing strategies for healthier gambling experiences.
The event will feature a range of keynote speakers, panel discussions, and workshops focusing on new regulations, research findings, and promising practices that underscore safer gambling. These sessions aim to promote a culture of responsibility among industry operators and stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of player health in sustaining the gambling sector’s future.
Keynote Address: Shifting Towards Sustainability
One of the highlights of the conference will be the keynote address titled “Gambling on the Safer Side: A Different Approach to Creating Competitive Advantage.” Scheduled for Tuesday at 9:15 a.m., Dr. Shawn DuBravac, the president of Avrio Institute, will explore evolving consumer preferences that lean toward healthier and more sustainable gaming options. This session promises to be thought-provoking, as Dr. DuBravac is recognized for his insightful analysis of trends and technologies that are reshaping industries worldwide.
His research speaks to the transformative forces that shape consumer behavior and societal norms. By examining how various business sectors are shifting to prioritize health and well-being, participants can gain valuable insights into how the gambling industry can align itself with these emerging trends.
Engaging Sessions and Networking Opportunities
The conference kicks off with registration on Monday at 4 p.m., followed by a guest reception at 5 p.m., offering attendees a chance to network with peers and experts in the industry. The collaborative atmosphere is designed to encourage sharing ideas and experiences related to safer gambling practices.
Panel discussions will be ongoing throughout the conference and will cover key topics relevant to player safety. One noteworthy panel, “How Regulation of iGaming Drives Safer Gambling Innovation,” will feature representatives from prominent international operators such as BetMGM and Rush Street. These discussions will delve into how regulatory frameworks in places like Ontario are fostering safer gambling innovations and contributing to a healthier gaming environment.
Additional discussions will address critical issues such as self-exclusion, the associated stigma of gambling, emerging forms of gambling, and player experience. These subjects are vital as they navigate the complexities of mental health, awareness and support for players who may be vulnerable to gambling-related harm.
The Future of Gambling: Focus on Player Health
As the New Horizons conference approaches, the emphasis on player health and sustainable practices serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing responsibility of the gambling industry. The collective insights and strategies that emerge from this gathering will likely shape future initiatives and approaches toward safer gambling.
Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to player welfare, the industry has the potential to transform the often-stigmatized world of gambling into a space that prioritizes health, enjoyment, and sustainability. The conversations sparked during these few days in Vancouver will resonate far beyond the Convention Centre and serve as a guiding light for future developments in player health.
As participants gather to align their efforts and share their knowledge, there is a collective hope for a future where gambling can be enjoyed responsibly, harmonizing economic interests with the well-being of the players it serves.
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