Celebrating 2024’s Top 50 Most Influential Women in Gaming, Africa: Carla Bastos
Carla Bastos is a distinguished professional with extensive experience in the regulatory landscape of the gambling industry, noted for her leadership, commitment, and innovative contributions.
Her career began at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), where she honed her skills as an auditor before venturing into the specialized field of gambling regulation in 2003. Since then, Carla has played a pivotal role in shaping the regulatory environment for gaming operations, driven by her passion for excellence and a deep understanding of the complexities of the industry.
In 2009, Carla advanced to the role of Executive Manager of Audit, where her leadership capabilities came to prominence. Among her peers, she quickly established herself as a force of nature—a dedicated professional known for her impeccable work ethic and her ability to inspire those around her. In 2021, she briefly stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer, further showcasing her versatility and capacity for strategic oversight.
Throughout her career, Carla has been actively involved in initiatives that promote best practices in gambling regulation. Her contributions to the International Association of Gambling Regulators Statistics Committee and other committees reflect her commitment to enhancing the integrity and efficiency of the industry on an international scale.
Carla holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of South Africa/Universiteit van Suid-Afrika, which provided her with a solid foundation for her career in finance and governance.
Her achievements in the regulatory sphere are notable. She was an integral part of the executive team that oversaw the approval and rollout of South Africa’s first online betting operator. Additionally, she contributed to the National Committee for the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) mutual evaluation of South Africa, advocating for alignment with international standards and demonstrating the gambling sector’s compliance.
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Notably, she played a crucial role in the merger of the Mpumalanga Gambling Board and the Mpumalanga Liquor Authority, establishing the Mpumalanga Economic Regulator. This initiative required the development of comprehensive legislation and policies to ensure a seamless transition.
Among her many accomplishments, Carla was instrumental in the development of the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency’s (MTPA) first strategic plan following the merger of the Mpumalanga Parks Board and the Mpumalanga Tourism Authority. Her turnaround strategy significantly improved financial controls and operational efficiency, resulting in a remarkable 100% increase in revenue over two years. Under her guidance, the MTPA moved from a “Disclaimer” audit opinion to an “Unqualified” status—demonstrating her formidable skills in governance and financial management.
Colleagues and friends describe Carla Bastos as an industrious and reliable individual, someone who fosters collaboration and camaraderie in the workplace. As a passionate mother and spouse, she balances her professional commitments with her family life, bringing energy and positivity to all her endeavors. She is recognized not only for her professional acumen but also for her integrity and the depth of her character, establishing lasting relationships built on trust and respect.
Over a career spanning two decades, Carla Bastos has left an indelible mark on the gambling regulatory space, characterized by her unwavering dedication, exceptional professionalism, and a heartfelt commitment to her colleagues and community. Her journey is a testament to what it means to lead with purpose and passion—a legacy of excellence in every role she has embraced.
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2024 Most Influential Women in Gaming, Africa as Brought to you by iGaming AFRIKA in partnership with Women in Gaming, The African Chapter
