New Horizons in Safer Gambling: A Conference Dedicated to Player Health

The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) is hosting the much-anticipated “New Horizons in Safer Gambling” conference from this Monday to Wednesday at the Convention Centre in downtown Vancouver. This event shines a spotlight on player health, an increasingly crucial topic in the evolving landscape of the gambling industry. Featuring industry experts, insightful keynote speeches, and panel discussions, the conference aims to foster innovation, connection, and progress in promoting safer gambling practices.

A Focus on Player Health

At the heart of this year’s conference is the theme of player health. Ryan McCarthy, Director of Player Health at BCLC, articulated the event’s core message: “New Horizons is all about reconnection and rediscovery.” The conference sets the stage for dialogues surrounding the advancements achieved in the gambling industry, while also establishing a renewed path toward improving player safety and welfare.

The gathering of experts reflects a collective commitment to building a sustainable future for gambling. Attendees will delve into regulatory changes, innovative research, and best practices designed to create healthier gambling environments. The goal is to reinvent player engagement in ways that prioritize not only business interests but also the well-being of individuals.

Keynote Insights from Dr. Shawn DuBravac

One of the major highlights of the conference is the keynote address titled “Gambling on the Safer Side: A Different Approach to Creating Competitive Advantage,” delivered by Dr. Shawn DuBravac, president of the Avrio Institute. This presentation is scheduled for Tuesday at 9:15 a.m. and promises to deliver valuable insights into the shifting consumer preferences that are leaning toward more sustainable and health-conscious gambling options.

Dr. DuBravac, recognized as an internationally renowned thought leader, will explore the implications of these trends. His extensive research focuses on the transformative forces shaping various sectors today and how these developments are pushing industries, including gaming, toward promoting healthier customer interactions.

Day One: Registration and Networking Opportunities

Participants can register for the conference starting Monday at 4 p.m., followed by a guest reception later that day at 5 p.m. The initial networking events provide an invaluable opportunity for attendees to connect with one another and discuss shared goals concerning player safety. This foundation of collaboration and communication sets the tone for the following days of discussions and presentations.

The Regulated Ontario Market: A Case Study

A key feature of the conference is the panel session focusing on “How Regulation of iGaming Drives Safer Gambling Innovation.” This session will spotlight the contributions made by international operators like BetMGM and Rush Street to safer gambling strategies within the regulated Ontario market. Representatives from the Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corporation, BCLC, and iGaming Ontario will also share their insights, highlighting the cross-border learnings about the role of regulation in enhancing player security.

Engaging Panel Discussions Throughout the Conference

As the conference unfolds over three days, a series of panel discussions will address several critical issues relating to gambling and player health. Topics such as self-exclusion, stigma associated with gambling, emerging forms of gambling, and player experience will be examined through the lenses of experts and researchers deeply engaged in these areas.

The diverse range of discussions reflects an urgent need to address the challenges and opportunities facing the gambling industry today. By highlighting innovative practices and collaborative approaches, the conference aspires to enhance the understanding of responsible gambling and further develop frameworks for player protection.

Conclusion: A Step Toward Safer Gambling

The “New Horizons in Safer Gambling” conference serves not only as a platform for industry leaders to come together but also as a catalyst for profound change within the gambling ecosystem. By prioritizing player health and well-being, the BCLC and participating organizations take significant strides toward a future where safer and healthier gambling practices are the norm, ensuring that players can enjoy their experiences with greater peace of mind.

As the event unfolds in Vancouver, stakeholders are encouraged to engage actively, share insights, and collaborate in ways that foster a more responsible gambling industry—one that values the health of its players as a primary concern. The conversations initiated during these three days promise to lay the groundwork for transformative changes in how gambling is approached around the globe.