In the fast-paced world of iGaming, where growth and innovation are celebrated, Men’s Mental Health Month provides an opportunity to shift focus towards an often-overlooked aspect: the mental well-being of the men who drive this industry. This pause allows for reflection beyond titles and targets, prompting the question: How are the men in our industry really managing?
The initial part of this series highlighted the power of vulnerability in creating connections. Many men responded, eager to share their journeys, experiences that don’t typically make their way into the boardroom or onto LinkedIn. This second installment draws from four unique stories—recovery, entrepreneurship, identity, and brotherhood—all underscoring a shared reality: silence helps no one.
Mark Schmidt, managing director for Africa at EveryMatrix in South Africa, speaks candidly about his struggles with addiction and mental health. He notes, “Keeping quiet was killing me.” His recent stay in rehab marked a turning point, as he shed the shame that had kept him silent. Opening up about his struggles, he realized, was less about bravery and more about survival. In an industry that often demands composure from its leaders, Mark chose authenticity over image. “Addiction and mental health issues aren’t unique to me; they’re widespread in iGaming,” he reflects.
Mark’s path to sobriety was challenging, especially while leading a rapidly expanding region. Yet, he found strength in setting firm boundaries and drawing support from his wife. Sobriety didn’t just alter his lifestyle; it transformed his leadership style. “This has been my most successful year because I’m genuine. I’m not worried about others’ perceptions. I’m honest, direct, human.”
To those quietly struggling, Mark offers simple advice: “Your struggles aren’t unique. People everywhere are facing similar battles. Reach out for help.” In his work with the Recovery in Gaming initiative, Mark provides support and a sense of community for those in need, reminding us that vulnerability is a cornerstone of effective leadership.
Ayofemi Akinlaja, founder and CEO of Shacks Evolution Studios in Nigeria, embodies a different pressure: the challenge of creating something unprecedented in Africa. “I wanted to be the biggest provider from Africa,” he states, driven by persistence and a sense of purpose. His journey, marked by technical setbacks and skepticism, illustrates the emotional toll of building a business from scratch in a market dominated by global giants. Losing a pivotal deal in 2022 due to technical issues was a significant setback, yet Ayofemi’s resolve remained unwavering.
“I kept showing up,” he recounts. “Initially, people questioned my ambition, but persistence earned respect. Eventually, the skepticism turned into interest.” His strategy for maintaining well-being is pragmatic: hire wisely, reassess continually, and evolve. “Fear will try to creep in—don’t let it.”
Ayofemi’s message to aspiring African entrepreneurs is clear: “Cast away fear. Build lean. Be persistent, resilient, diligent. Challenges will come, but they won’t define you.” His story is a testament to Africa’s burgeoning innovation landscape, driven by founders who refuse to quit.
Sipho Hobongwana, a personal assistant to the chief strategic advisor at the National Gambling Board in South Africa, offers insight into the often-overlooked reality of navigating identity in environments with limited LGBTQ+ representation. “Being an LGBTQ+ professional in a regulatory role has been a balancing act,” he shares. Supportive executives and colleagues have been instrumental in building his confidence. Yet, the journey has also been solitary at times. “I’ve had to conceal parts of myself to avoid undue attention,” he admits. However, he has learned to balance transparency with preserving his boundaries.
His mental health practice includes community, therapy, and grounding routines, reinforcing that identity is only one aspect of who he is. “Before my title, I’m a human,” he emphasizes. To others, he offers reassurance: “You may feel unseen, but you are not alone. Authenticity is a quiet form of leadership.”
Moshe and Ashley Adir, founders of Vegas Kings in South Africa, provide a compelling narrative of brotherhood in business. For over 27 years, they have built their company together, their partnership rooted in unwavering trust. “Our biggest strength is absolute trust,” Moshe states. Every day begins with a ritual that reinforces their bond. “When the chips are down, we just know how to work through it,” Ashley adds.
Their collaboration is a blend of Moshe’s visionary pursuits and Ashley’s operational focus. By respecting their distinct roles and setting aside ego, they’ve forged a successful, enduring partnership. “People advise against working with family, but our secret is simple—stop competing. Build the dream together,” Moshe advises.
Their approach to well-being acknowledges their workaholic tendencies, but they channel that energy into creative pursuits. “It’s the entrepreneur’s curse,” Ashley laughs, “but we wouldn’t have it any other way.” Their story underscores that vulnerability isn’t always loud; sometimes, it’s about consistently being there for each other.
These narratives highlight the multifaceted nature of men’s experiences in iGaming, encompassing struggles with identity, recovery, loneliness, and the quiet courage to persist. Our work in mental health and inclusion continues, inviting more voices to share their stories. Silence helps no one.
Women in Gaming Africa (WiG Africa) champions representation, leadership, and inclusion across the continent’s gaming industry. Through events, mentorship, and advocacy, WiG Africa fosters a stronger, more connected ecosystem.
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