Casino Guru has announced the addition of two highly respected industry leaders, Duncan Garvie and Monica Shafaq, to its judging panel for the Casino Guru Awards 2025. Now in their third year, these awards aim to recognize excellence, transparency, and social responsibility within the iGaming sector. The inclusion of Duncan and Monica reinforces the awards’ dedication to fairness and integrity.
Introducing the Judges
Duncan Garvie – Founder and Trustee of BetBlocker
Duncan Garvie has been a prominent advocate for consumer protection in the gambling industry for over a decade. As the founder of ThePOGG, the first affiliate-based complaint service to achieve approval as an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) provider, Duncan has been instrumental in improving player safety and facilitating fair dispute resolutions. In 2017, he founded BetBlocker, a registered charity offering free tools to help individuals manage their gambling behaviors. Currently serving as Chair of the Board of Trustees at BetBlocker, Duncan remains a leading voice in promoting responsible gambling practices.
Duncan shared his enthusiasm for the role, stating: “I’m thrilled to participate as a judge for the Casino Guru Awards 2025. Casino Guru has been setting the bar for the affiliate sector with their player protection initiatives for years now, which have significantly improved the dialogue around several key areas in the safer gambling space. Being invited to take part in the judging process is an honour in itself.”
Monica Shafaq – CEO of Gordon Moody
Monica Shafaq brings a wealth of expertise from her extensive work in the charity sector, with a particular focus on mental health and gambling addiction. Since January 2024, she has served as CEO of Gordon Moody, an international charity dedicated to addressing gambling addiction and raising awareness about its impacts. Previously, Monica led the Kaleidoscope Plus Group to multiple accolades, including recognition in The Sunday Times Top 100 Companies to Work For.
Monica’s influence extends beyond the charity sector. She is a prominent advocate for equality, diversity, and social justice, holding several non-executive roles in football and public health. Her efforts have earned her recognition as one of Europe’s Top 50 most influential Muslims.
Monica expressed her excitement, saying: “I’m thrilled to join the panel of judges for the Casino Guru Awards 2025, an initiative that celebrates excellence and innovation in the gambling industry. This is a fantastic opportunity to recognise the individuals and organisations driving positive change and promoting responsible practices. I look forward to collaborating with my fellow judges and contributing to the selection of outstanding nominees and winners.”
Upholding Excellence in iGaming
The Casino Guru Awards aim to shine a spotlight on organizations and individuals who embody the values of integrity, fairness, and innovation in the iGaming industry. The addition of Duncan Garvie and Monica Shafaq to the judging panel ensures that these principles will continue to guide the awards as they celebrate and promote best practices across the sector.
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