In a rapidly evolving industry, we rarely stop to focus on what truly drives transformation: the people behind the scenes. In Colombia’s gambling ecosystem, few voices resonate as powerfully in 2025 as that of Elizabeth Maya Cano, Executive President of Cornazar, the national trade association representing licensed gambling operators.
Recently honored at the LIFE Awards in Medellín for her outstanding female leadership, Maya has become a key figure not only in regulatory discussions and technical forums, but also in shaping the emotional and social narrative of legal gambling in the country.
In an exclusive interview with Mundo Video®, Latin America’s most widely read digital media outlet in the gaming sector—and the company that for over 36 years has set the benchmark for the Colombian industry—Maya shared how recognition at events like the LIFE Awards validates the invisible labor of hundreds of women across Colombia’s legal gaming industry.
"This is more than a personal milestone. It confirms that women in the gambling sector are making an impact—building with rigor and empathy, and proving that our voices belong in every space: technical, institutional, and symbolic.”
Her presence at international stages such as SBC Summit LatAm reinforces her conviction that Colombia’s local experience has global relevance.
“Colombia has positioned itself as a responsible operator model despite challenges. We’re not just surviving—we’re contributing to regional conversations with real substance.”
Maya leads a predominantly female team at Cornazar and believes empathy is as important as technical knowledge in today’s leadership landscape.
“I receive messages from entrepreneurs daily—worried about labor reforms, banking access, or the uncertainty they face. Listening and supporting them isn’t just legal work—it’s emotional work.”
When asked about advice for young women looking to grow in this industry, she said:
“Knowledge, when paired with empathy and courage, transforms. Prepare yourself rigorously, speak up even in spaces not built for you, and lead with heart. There is room for all of us.”
She closed with a message that transcends gender and touches on trust:
“Every legal bet supports jobs, families, health funding, and economic equity. To citizens, regulators, and the media: value the legal gaming industry. Trust the operators working with integrity—we are building a safer, stronger Colombia together.”
At Mundo Video®, we know that stories like these are not isolated—they are proof that the industry is evolving. The women who lead it are doing more than participating—they are leveling up the entire sector.
