Much like many other industries, gambling has traditionally been male dominated, with the image of the typical gambler often portrayed as a man in popular media.
However, women have been breaking stereotypes and making significant strides in the industry, both as professionals and players too.
To understand these changes, it’s essential that we properly understand the historical context of the industry. From there, we’ll delve into how women are now thriving as professionals and overcoming challenges, but most importantly, we’re going to explore the future of women in gambling.
Historical Context of Gender and Gambling
Historically, gambling was viewed as a pastime for men – something fun that they could do in the evenings, after work while the women stayed at home with the children. Indeed, within the industry, women were often relegated to the sidelines, either as spectators or working within casinos in service roles.
The image of glamourous, male high rollers has been a persistent stereotype, reinforced by pop culture, especially movies, advertisements and cultural narratives. Despite this, women have always participated in gambling in one way or another, even if they were less visible.
Persistent Stereotypes: Women Becoming Players
In more recent years, the landscape has begun to change quite significantly. More women are stepping into the spotlight as prominent gamblers, particularly in poker.
Women like Vanessa Selbst has won three World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets and earned more than $11 million in tournament earnings, challenging the notion that poker is a so-called man’s game. Indeed, Selbst’s success, as well as that of other female players like Maria Ho and Liv Boeree, are inspiring a brand-new generation of women to pursue poker professionally.
Women and the Rise of Online Gambling
The advent of online gambling and the easy access to sites like Jackpot Wheel casino has played a crucial role in increasing female participation in the industry.
A big part of the reason for this is that online platforms provide a more accessible and less intimidating environment for women to gamble. Women can play from the comfort of their own homes, free from the generally male-dominated sometimes, unwelcoming atmosphere created by traditional casinos.
This shift in the industry has resulted in a very noticeable increase in the number of women engaging in various forms of online gambling, ranging from poker to sports betting and online slots.
Women-Only Tournaments
Another method that’s been used to encourage more female participation in the industry has been the introduction and sponsorship of female-only tournaments. These events provide a supportive environment for women to compete against each other and really hone their skills.
Now, unsurprisingly, some people argue that segregating tournaments simply reinforces gender divisions, but in reality, many women appreciate the opportunity to compete without the pressure and the condescension they sometimes might face in mixed-gender events.
Female Gambling Professionals
Of course, the gambling industry goes beyond the tables, and women are making their mark in the professional realm of the industry too. From executive roles to entrepreneurial ventures, women are influencing the culture and direction of gambling in important and profound ways.
Women in Leadership
It’s becoming increasingly common to find women occupying leadership positions in major gambling companies.
For instance, Denise Coates is the founder and CEO of a British-based casino and sportsbook. Under Coates’ leadership, the company has become one of the largest in the world. Her success challenges the traditional male-centric view of industry leadership, demonstrating that women really can thrive at the highest levels.
Advocacy and Representation
Females within the gambling industry are also advocating for greater diversity and representation. Organisations like the Global Gaming Women (GGW) support the development and success of women in the gaming industry.
GGW offers women opportunities related to networking, leadership and education, all of which is designed to empower women and promote gender-equality within the industry.
Female Entrepreneurs
Female entrepreneurs are also launching innovative gambling ventures. This includes the rise of female-focused gambling platforms that cater specifically to women, offering a more inclusive and diverse gambling experience.
These platforms often emphasise social responsibility and responsible gambling, addressing issue that are especially important to female audiences.
Women Overcoming Challenges in the Gambling Industry
Despite the progress women have managed to make in the industry, they still face significant challenges. Gender bias, stereotypes and unequal opportunities persist, requiring ongoing efforts to address these issues.
Gender Stereotypes and Biases
Female gamblers and professionals often encounter gender bias and stereotypes. Unfortunately, women tend to be chronically underestimated and even patronised at the tables, while women in leadership roles may face scepticism about their capabilities.
In order to challenge these biases, we need both cultural change within the gambling industry as well as broader societal shifts in attitudes towards women in gambling.
Work-Life Balance
Another really important thing to consider is work-life balance, especially since life is different for men and women in this regard – not always, but often. The demanding nature of these positions, combined with traditional expectations around family and caregiving responsibilities, can create additional pressures for women than for men, whether these are fair or not.
Thus, supportive workplace policies and a cultural shift towards shared responsibilities are essential to be able to properly address these challenges.
Access to Opportunities
It’s absolutely crucial that the industry provides equal opportunities for both men and women in order to foster a sense of a more inclusive industry overall. This includes providing equal opportunities for women to advance their careers, access to mentorship programs and supportive networks that can help women navigate the industry.
The other factor is that pay disparities need to be addressed, ensuring that women are equally compensated for their contributions.
What is the Future of Women in Gambling?
Overall, the future looks promising for women in gambling. Here are some ways we can continue to empower women in the industry:
Empowerment Through Education: Education and training programs are vital for empowering women, equipping women with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed, both as players and professionals.
Celebrating Success: It’s important to highlight the success and achievements of women in gambling, to challenge prevailing stereotypes and inspire young, aspiring women too.
Continued Advocacy: The work never stops, and continued advocacy within the industry is essential. Organisations within and outside the industry need to work together to promote policies and practices that support diversity and inclusion.
