During the final panel of SiGMA Asia 2025, a dynamic conversation unfolded on the SiGMA Stage spotlighting the evolving landscape of gender and opportunity across the Asian gaming industry. In the panel titled Women in Gaming Across Asia: Talent, Trends & Territories to Watch, four accomplished industry leaders shared timely insights into how women are shaping the regions most competitive and fast-moving sectors.
Moderator Bolormaa Ganbold, Senior Director at Murray International Group, offered a regional macro-view of talent pipelines, while Julia Panina, Head of Product Marketing at EvenBet Gaming, spoke to the evolving role of women in product development. Ellen Frojd, CEO of SmartRecruitment.com, brought a recruitment-focused lens to the conversation, detailing how hiring practices are shifting. Priya Ahlawat, founder of Jumping 바카라, discussed the challenges and opportunities that come with breaking new ground.
Changing the narrative
It’s no longer about women surviving in a male-dominated industry, said Ganbold. Its about how theyre actively building an inclusive ecosystem to fuel growth and shape company culture.
Julia Panina echoed this sentiment by highlighting the tangible impact women are already making in leadership roles. We have operations in 41 countries and about 46% of our senior roles are taken up by women, she shared. Still, Julia noted that theres more progress to be made Despite the iGaming sector growing by 165% in the Philippines in 2024, only 15% of senior positions are held by women. Thats a missed opportunity, especially when 38% of online gamblers in Asia are women and they contribute over 25% of the total revenue.
Representation and retention
Ellen Frojd, offered a deeply informed perspective from the frontlines of recruitment across Asias gaming sector. She explained that todays most successful iGaming companies are looking for talent that can bridge both the technical and commercial sides of the business. Women are stepping up into these roles, they bring the critical skill sets, communication, emotional intelligence and leadership that companies need. But theres still a long way to go. she said.
While progress has been made in the past five years, Frojd noted that gender parity in senior leadership remains rare. More companies are open than before but the pipeline still needs support., she emphasised. We see talent gaps everywhere in the industry, Frojd continued. Companies need to be intentional, offering flexible work setups, clear development paths and real career mentorship for women.
For Frojd, fostering retention is about creating environments where women feel supported to grow without compromising personal responsibilities. When women feel heard and represented at the top, they feel more comfortable stepping into leadership.
Designing for inclusion
Priya Ahlawat, spotlighted the creative influence of women in game design. Around 40% of Asian gamers are women. Theyre not just playing, theyre shaping the games, she said. Women bring values, real-life perspectives and storytelling that enriches game development. With trends like AI and mobile-first gaming, women are going to play a bigger role in shaping the future.
The next wave of women in gaming
As the panel drew to a close, each speaker was asked to share one piece of advice for women aiming to grow or lead in the gaming industry.
Julia Panina offered a reminder that talent, when recognised and nurtured, has the power to open doors. If youre talented, you have a chance. Follow that path.
Priya Ahlawat encouraged boldness and self-belief, urging women to embrace discomfort as part of the growth journey. Always chase your dreams. Take charge, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone.
Ellen Frojd spoke directly to self-doubt, championing confidence as the first step to claiming leadership. Believe in the value you bring. Dont wait to feel ready. Speak up, lead now. She added a poignant note for the broader community, And to the men in this space, I hope you continue to create opportunities for women to rise.
A fitting close to SiGMA Asia 2025
This panel sparked a call to action. It capped off the SiGMA Asia 2025 stage with a vision of what the future of gaming leadership can and should look like with inclusion, a balanced environment and driven by talent from all backgrounds. Take a look at the of SiGMA Magazine, highlighting some of the most influential women shaping the gaming world right now.
This was the final panel on the SiGMA Stage at SiGMA Asia 2025 but the conversation doesnt end here. From groundbreaking keynotes and in-depth panels, explore all the highlights, insights and standout moments from across the event.
