‘Disrupting the Status Quo, Valletta 21′ will hold two productive days of networking, exhibition, and conference sessions. We sat down with David Caddie, Production Manager, iGaming NEXT to hear about how this conference will add value for the attendees.
Q: iGaming NEXT Valletta 2021 is held in a quite unique venue. Can you tell us a bit about Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta?
A: Picture a unique historic building built in the 1600’s with all the benefits of modern technology & everything else you’d expect from a world-class facility as well as breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour to top it all off.
Q: It is your first in-person event since joining iGaming NEXT earlier this year but you have extensive experience with events. What are the biggest differences between previous events and this event?
A: So the obvious would be that this is my first event in Malta and my first event post-COVID-19 but personally the biggest difference would be that this is my most industry specific & content driven event that is tailored towards a very specific audience which makes it extremely unique and motivating.
Q: There are still COVID-19 restrictions in place in Malta and they seem to change all the time. It must be very difficult to plan an event like this well in advance?
A: COVID-19 has made planning an event of this magnitude somewhat challenging however ensuring that we have all our bases covered with regards to health, safety & security it gives us the opportunity to be more flexible & to mitigate as much of the potential risks as possible.
While we are confident of a successful event, for the peace of mind, we have a COVID-19 policy in place guaranteeing a 100% refund in the unlikely event of iGaming NEXT Valletta ’21 not being able to go ahead.Q: How do the COVID-19 restrictions affect the event?
A: COVID-19 travel restrictions are and continue to be the biggest challenge in terms of our guests and speakers being able to attend. It’s no longer just about the venue, the production value, ticket sales etc but more about safety, efficiency, and transparency.
Staying up-to-date on all local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure that all protocols are being met with the addition of sanitizing stations, increased levels of cleanliness, and that all other safety precautions are in place to keep everyone involved safe.
Q: People are looking forward to attend in-person events again. What kind of networking opportunities can the attendees look forward to?
A: As in every industry the more people you meet and network with, the more you grow with the industry. Our event presents the ideal opportunity & environment to network with the best the iGaming industry has to offer. We also have an amazing agenda and obviously networking is just one of many reasons why you should attend.
Q: iGaming NEXT Valletta 2021 is just one of many events happening that week. You must be busy juggling with lots of logistics?
A: Most definitely! However, we have a full team compliment, who are more like family to me, whereby every member is extremely hands-on providing me with the necessary support I need in all areas and not just logistics. The glamourous iGaming IDOL 2021 and a few invitation only events are also happening that week so we are indeed very busy.
Q: Finally, what are you looking most forward to?
A: The power of human interaction is invaluable and even though the physical interaction will be limited, the conversation and creative content that stems from having an audience and speakers of this magnitude will be inspiring and crucial to our ever-changing and growing industry going forward.
Read more about iGaming NEXT Valletta ’21 here.