The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel, California received top honors at the 2024 Global Gaming Awards. Presented at G2E in Las Vegas, the awards program seeks to acknowledge excellence in gaming worldwide.
The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians earned the award for ‘Responsible Business of the Year’, marking their fourth consecutive win in this category. Aditionally, for the first time, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino claimed the coveted title of ‘Property of the Year – North America,’ standing out from hundreds of gaming properties nationwide.
“This dual triumph solidifies their legacy of excellence and social responsibility, demonstrating that success in gaming can go hand-in-hand with a commitment to community and responsible business practices,” according to a press release.
The San Manuel Tribe’s ‘Responsible Business of the Year’ award celebrates their dedication to business practices and their impact on the communities they serve. Since 2003, the Tribe has donated over $400 million to causes ranging from healthcare and education to social development and cultural preservation across Indian Country. In 2024 alone, San Manuel contributed $12.6 million to more than 200 philanthropic initiatives across the Inland Empire and beyond.
“Investing in our people and preserving our communities are foundational values at San Manuel,” said Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. “We are inspired by our ancestors and motivated by our youth to operate responsibly so that future generations may thrive. We are grateful to our team and our loyal guests for this recognition, and we congratulate our fellow Global Gaming Awards honorees.”
Lynn Valbuena
Yaamava’s Resort & Casino‘s achievement as “Property of the Year” highlights its position as a premier gaming and entertainment destination. With over 14 million visitors annually, Yaamava’ stands as the second most-visited destination in California, offering over 7,200 slot machines, 150 table games, and five high-limit rooms. Beyond the casino floor, guests can find world-class dining, luxurious accommodations, and performances, with more than 90 live shows a year.
“We are beyond thrilled to be recognized as the best casino property in North America,” said Kenji Hall, General Manager of Yaamava’ Resort & Casino. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our incredible team. From our vibrant gaming floor to our one-of-a-kind hospitality offerings, we are committed to delivering an unmatched guest experience every day. This honor reflects the standard of excellence we strive to uphold.”
Kenji Hall
In addition to its win for “Property of the Year,” Yaamava’ earned second place for “Customer Loyalty Program of the Year” with its renowned Club Serrano, which also extends its benefits to Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas and Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point, CA. Yaamava’s General Manager Kenji Hall was also honored by his peers, finishing in the top three for “American Executive of the Year.”
