Lupe Soto is one of the most influential figures in women’s poker worldwide, celebrated for her pioneering work and leadership in promoting gender equality in the game. In 2008, she founded the Women in Poker Hall of Fame (WiPHoF), an institution dedicated to honoring and preserving the legacy of women who have shaped the history of poker. She was inducted into the Hall herself in 2018, in recognition of her remarkable contributions.

Her journey began as an online player in the 1990s, where she noticed the lack of female representation in live tournaments. In 2002, she created Poker Chix, an online community for women players. Two years later, she launched the Ladies International Poker Series (LIPS), a women-only live tournament circuit that became an international benchmark and inspired similar events around the world.

Beyond these initiatives, Lupe also founded the Women’s Poker Association (WPA), a nonprofit organization focused on empowering and developing women in poker. She currently is cultivating the Mixed Games Poker Tour, which caters to more experienced players and those who wish to expand their poker game expertise, and is a respected voice at conferences, industry events, and poker organizations.

Through her visionary leadership, Lupe Soto has opened doors for countless women in poker, changing the face of the game and its history

What is the importance of poker in your life?
“Poker has been more than a game, it’s been a vehicle for connection, empowerment, and social change in my life. I transitioned from a career in social services to becoming deeply involved in poker because I saw it as an opportunity to build community and open doors. Through initiatives like the Poker Chix forum I launched in 2002, and later tours and organizations, poker allowed me to bring women together and create lasting bonds. For me, poker is a platform to inspire, to organize, and to give women a place where they belong.”

In your opinion, what is the importance of the Women’s Committee?
“The Women’s Committee is vital because it provides structure and visibility to the role of women in poker. It’s not just about participation, but about having a collective voice that can influence how the game grows worldwide. The committee creates a platform for collaboration, advocacy, and mentorship, ensuring that women are recognized, respected, and represented at every level of poker. It’s a driving force for equity and progress in the game.”