Sarah Micallef: “The iGaming Legacy Awards are designed to highlight and encourage leadership that looks beyond short-term gains”
Sarah Micallef, Founder of the iGaming Legacy Awards, spoke with Focus Gaming News to share insights into the purpose behind the awards.
Exclusive interview.- The igaming industry features a wide range of awards recognising achievements in areas such as career milestones, quality, marketing, and performance. However, one award stands out for focusing on different values: the iGaming Legacy Awards.
To learn more about these unique accolades, Focus Gaming News spoke with their founder, Sarah Micallef, who shared details about how the idea came to life. She explained the aim of honouring individuals and organisations for their culture and ethics within the industry, while also highlighting the award’s distinctive charitable component.
What inspired you to create the iGaming Legacy Awards, and why now?
The iGaming Legacy Awards were born out of a desire to recognise and celebrate the individuals and companies that are shaping the future of the igaming industry — not just through innovation and success, but through lasting impact and ethical leadership. With the rapid growth and evolving nature of iGaming, it felt crucial to spotlight those who are building a sustainable, responsible, and inspiring legacy.
Now more than ever, as the industry matures and faces new challenges, honouring these trailblazers helps set standards and motivates others to follow suit. The timing is perfect to highlight meaningful contributions that might otherwise be overlooked in the fast-paced market.
The industry already has several award ceremonies. What makes the Legacy Awards different, and what gap are they filling?
Many existing awards in igaming focus on performance metrics, product innovation, and marketing achievements, which are undoubtedly important. However, the iGaming Legacy Awards stand apart by concentrating on the lasting influence individuals and organisations have on the industry’s culture, ethics, celebrating the roots of the igaming world from where we started, and also inspiring the future.
We fill a unique gap by celebrating those who lead with purpose, prioritise responsible growth, and contribute positively to the community. The Legacy Awards shine a light on sustainable leadership and values-driven success, encouraging others to build something meaningful that will endure beyond immediate accolades.
In essence, we’re not just awarding success; we’re honouring legacy — the kind of impact that truly shapes the future of igaming.
“We fill a unique gap by celebrating those who lead with purpose, prioritise responsible growth, and contribute positively to the community.”
Sarah Micallef, Founder of iGaming Legacy Awards
You’ve emphasised culture, history, and human values as central pillars. How do these shape the categories and criteria for the awards?
Culture, history, and human values are fundamental to the iGaming Legacy Awards because they reflect the deeper impact that leaders and companies have beyond financial success. These pillars shape our categories by highlighting areas such as community engagement, ethical leadership, and long-term sustainability.
When setting the criteria, we look for nominees who demonstrate integrity, inclusivity, and respect for the industry’s heritage. It’s about recognising those who build positive cultures within their organisations, mentor future leaders, and contribute meaningfully to the evolution of igaming.
This approach ensures that the awards celebrate not just what’s achieved, but how it’s achieved — honouring legacies built on strong, human-centred values.
There’s also a strong charitable component in this initiative. Can you tell us more about the causes you’re supporting and why?
Charitable giving is a vital part of the iGaming Legacy Awards. We are proud that 100 per cent of the participation fees are donated directly to support homeless shelters across Malta, as well as the Richmond Foundation Group. These organisations provide essential services for vulnerable populations, including those facing homelessness and mental health challenges. By channelling funds to these causes, we ensure the awards have a meaningful social impact, reflecting our commitment to giving back and supporting the communities connected to our industry.
The industry is evolving fast, with new generations, technologies, and challenges. How do you see the Legacy Awards influencing the future of iGaming?
The iGaming Legacy Awards are designed to highlight and encourage leadership that looks beyond short-term gains and focuses on long-term impact. As the industry evolves with new technologies and fresh talent, these awards will play a crucial role in setting benchmarks for responsible innovation and ethical growth.
By celebrating those who champion player protection, inclusivity, and sustainable business practices, the Legacy Awards help shape an industry culture that’s prepared to meet future challenges head-on. Our hope is that the awards inspire companies and individuals alike to build not just successful careers or products, but a future for igaming that is both innovative and deeply trusted.
Finally, what kind of legacy do you hope the iGaming Legacy Awards themselves will leave in the years to come?
I hope the iGaming Legacy Awards will be seen as a beacon for positive transformation within the industry. More than just an awards ceremony, I want it to be a movement that encourages leaders to think deeply about their impact and responsibilities.
The true legacy I envision is one where the awards inspire continuous improvement, pushing the industry toward greater transparency, inclusivity, and social responsibility. Ultimately, I want the Legacy Awards to help shape an igaming community that values long-term growth and meaningful contributions as much as commercial.
“I hope the iGaming Legacy Awards will be seen as a beacon for positive transformation within the industry.”
Sarah Micallef, Founder of iGaming Legacy Awards
