We sat down with BGaming’s CEO, Marina Ostrovtsova, to look back on their successful second annual Charity Gala. The event was first held in 2025 to raise funds for DAR Bjorn, a Malta-based neurological home providing vital care for people living with severe neurological conditions, and has now established itself as one of the biggest events in the BGaming calendar. Marina reflects on this meaningful evening and looks at what the future holds for the event.
The second annual Charity Gala by BGaming is now in the history books. How are you feeling about the evening?
“We couldn’t be happier with how the evening went. I’m so touched by our incredible guests. We managed to raise another €200,000 for DAR Bjorn, matching our total from year one, with over 400 guests attending. Being able to bring together that many people from across the iGaming industry and from Malta is something we are incredibly proud of, and we have been humbled by the level of support we have received.
“The DAR Bjorn centre is a pillar of support among the Maltese community, providing invaluable care to people suffering from terminal neurological conditions. The evening was not just a chance to raise funds but also to show our appreciation and celebrate all the brilliant work they do.”
For those who were unable to attend, can you give us a picture of what the evening looked like?
“Like last year’s event, it was a truly special night. It was held at the Bastion Pool of The Phoenicia Hotel, which, as anybody who knows the area will tell you, is one of the most stunning settings in Malta. It was a night where care blooms.
“I’m so honoured that Maria and Bjorn Formosa were able to join us, along with several residents of DAR Bjorn. Charity Gala by BGaming was hosted by Joseph Chetcuti, who did a fantastic job of keeping the event moving. Guests enjoyed a live art performance by L7Matrix and a charity auction featuring works by Gonçalo MAR, adding a creative dimension to the evening’s fundraising efforts.
“The evening was about far more than entertainment. Inspired by the idea of Growing Impact Together, guests actively supported DAR Bjorn through the fundraising activities, helping turn generosity into tangible support for the people who need it most.”
The merchandise was a real talking point of the event. Can you tell us a little more about that?
“The merchandise was a new addition to this year’s Gala, and it was definitely one of our favourites. Together with Portuguese artist Gonçalo MAR, we worked directly with DAR Bjorn residents to create an artwork inspired by their stories. It later became the basis for a special merchandise collection supporting the organisation. What makes me especially proud is that the project raised more than €5,000 for DAR Bjorn and gave residents the opportunity to become active contributors to the initiative, not just its beneficiaries.”
This is your second Charity Gala for DAR Bjorn. What has been the collective impact of the two nights on the centre?
“The two Charity Galas we have hosted over the past two years have raised more than €400,000 for DAR Bjorn, creating a lasting impact on the lives of its residents and the wider community. This year’s funds will help provide vital equipment for that centre, including ventilators, air mattresses, hoist lifters, and rooms for new admissions.
“DAR Bjorn is a truly amazing centre, and we are proud to have shone a light on the fantastic work it does, as well as to help provide funds and care for its residents.
“Malta is something of a spiritual home for many in the iGaming community, so we know how much it means to be able to help support such a vital organisation in the country.”
BGaming describes itself as being ‘beyond’ a gaming provider. How do events like this capture this philosophy?
“It is important for BGaming to give back to the communities we work in, and Charity Gala by BGaming is just one example of the work we have done this year.
“This Charity Gala was not just about what we can achieve at BGaming, it was also an example of what the wider iGaming community is capable of when it comes together. We hope that the evening encourages others to ask what they can do for their communities, and given the response we have received from our event partners and other attendees, we believe it has certainly had that effect.”
Finally – what comes next? Can we expect a third Charity Gala by BGaming?
“Absolutely. DAR Bjorn is a cause we are deeply committed to, and that commitment runs stronger than just one evening. The funds raised by the first two events have had a huge impact on the residents and their lives at DAR Bjorn, and we want to keep that momentum going.
“While there is no official date in the calendar yet, we will be back next year for a third Charity Gala by BGaming, and we hope that the iGaming industry and the wider Maltese community will continue to show the wonderful support they have shown for the last two years.”
