In 2025, the cryptocurrency and blockchain landscape is being transformed by visionary women leaders who are not only breaking barriers but also redefining the industry's future. From managing global crypto exchanges to spearheading AI-blockchain integrations, these women are driving innovation, fostering inclusivity, and expanding access to digital economies. Let’s explore their roles and contributions. 1. Alicia Kao: Steering KuCoin’s Global Vision Role: Managing Director at KuCoin
Company: KuCoin, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange with over 39 million users Role: Managing Director at KuCoin Role KuCoin Company: KuCoin, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange with over 39 million users Company Alicia Kao is a key figure in the crypto industry, leveraging her decade-long expertise in digital marketing and a sociology background to guide KuCoin’s growth since 2019. A passionate blockchain advocate and NFT enthusiast, she focuses on making crypto accessible to all. In 2025, her leadership shone at Hackseason’s panel, “Where is Web3 Headed in 2025,” alongside industry leaders like Gracy Chen (Bitget) and Jason Lau (OKX). Her efforts in crypto education have also paid off, with KuCoin Learn attracting 1.5 million users in early 2024. Why She’s a Game-Changer: Alicia’s commitment to education and strategic partnerships is bringing crypto to millions worldwide. Why She’s a Game-Changer 2. Catherine Daly: Marketing the Future of Web3 Data Role: Head of Marketing at Space and Time
Company: Space and Time, a Web3-native data warehouse revolutionizing blockchain infrastructure Role: Head of Marketing at Space and Time Role Company: Space and Time, a Web3-native data warehouse revolutionizing blockchain infrastructure Company Catherine Daly is the marketing mastermind behind Space and Time, a company that provides fast, enterprise-scale data queries for decentralized applications in gaming, DeFi, and beyond. Supported by giants like Microsoft Azure and Chainlink, her work ensures developers and businesses understand the transformative potential of this technology. In 2025, Catherine continues to amplify Space and Time’s role in Web3’s evolution with her talent for simplifying complex concepts. Space and Time Chainlink Why She’s a Game-Changer: Catherine’s storytelling is laying the groundwork for Web3’s data-driven future. Why She’s a Game-Changer 3. Nelly Cornejo: Championing Privacy and Education in Blockchain Role: CMO of iExec
Company: iExec, a decentralized cloud computing platform focused on privacy and trust Role: CMO of iExec Role Company: iExec, a decentralized cloud computing platform focused on privacy and trust Company Nelly Cornejo is a trailblazer in blockchain education and privacy. Since founding TAAL Project in 2017—France’s first blockchain education non-profit—she’s empowered countless individuals. As iExec’s CMO, she promotes tools like DataProtector and Web3Mail, enhancing data security. In 2024, she co-founded Women in Web3 Privacy, furthering her mission of inclusivity. Her 2021 European Cyber Woman Day Medal underscores her influence. iExec Why She’s a Game-Changer: Nelly’s dedication to privacy and education is creating a safer, more inclusive blockchain ecosystem. Why She’s a Game-Changer 4. Chi Zhang: Pioneering the AI-Blockchain Frontier Role: Co-founder and CEO of Kite AI
Company: Kite AI, a startup building a decentralized AI economy Role: Co-founder and CEO of Kite AI Role Company: Kite AI, a startup building a decentralized AI economy Company Chi Zhang, with a Ph.D. in Machine Learning from UC Berkeley, is merging AI and blockchain at Kite AI. Her company’s Proof of Attributed Intelligence (PoAI) ensures fair rewards for contributors in a decentralized AI ecosystem. In 2025, Kite AI launched the first purpose-built L1 for AI with Avalanche, marking a major milestone in AI-blockchain integration. Chi continues to drive innovation, shaping the future of AI through decentralized technologies Kite AI Why She’s a Game-Changer: Chi’s innovative fusion of AI and blockchain is shaping a more equitable tech future. Why She’s a Game-Changer 5. Joana Barros: Building Communities in Blockchain Gaming Role: Marketing Director at My Neighbor Alice
Company: My Neighbor Alice, a blockchain game blending virtual land ownership with NFT creation Role: Marketing Director at My Neighbor Alice Role Company: My Neighbor Alice, a blockchain game blending virtual land ownership with NFT creation Company Joana Barros brings over ten years of gaming and Web3 experience to My Neighbor Alice, a play-to-earn game inspired by Animal Crossing and Minecraft. As Marketing Director, she fosters a thriving community where players can monetize their creativity via NFTs. Her past roles at Microsoft and as an entrepreneur enhance her ability to engage diverse audiences, making blockchain gaming accessible and enjoyable. My Neighbor Alice Why She’s a Game-Changer: Joana’s community-driven approach is turning blockchain gaming into a global, inclusive phenomenon. Why She’s a Game-Changer 6. Maly Ly: Expanding Access Through Intelligent Blockchains Role: CMO at GenLayer
Company: GenLayer, an intelligent blockchain featuring AI-powered smart contracts Role: CMO at GenLayer Role Company: GenLayer, an intelligent blockchain featuring AI-powered smart contracts Company Maly Ly combines her diverse background in entertainment, space tech, blockchain, and AI to lead marketing at GenLayer. Her focus is on “Intelligent Contracts,” which leverage AI to make sophisticated decisions, lowering barriers for creators and builders. Maly’s vision is clear: “I believe in crypto’s power to expand access for everyone—not just insiders or the elite.” In 2025, she’s making that a reality. GenLayer Why She’s a Game-Changer: Maly’s efforts are democratizing blockchain technology for a broader audience. Why She’s a Game-Changer 7. Angelica Vidal: Bridging Blockchain with Human-Centric Branding Role: Chief Brand Officer at human.tech by Holonym Foundation Role: Company: human.tech by Holonym Foundation, a leader in digital identity and privacy solutions for the blockchain space. Company: Angelica Vidal is the Chief Brand Officer at human.tech by Holonym Foundation, where she spearheads brand strategy and experiences, merging innovation with human-centric design to drive the adoption of transformative technology. She is also the founder of Marble Fountain, a boutique agency specializing in strategic brand positioning and immersive experiences that bridge culture, technology, and luxury. With a decade of expertise in marketing, PR, and storytelling across luxury, entertainment, and Web2 sectors, her transition into Web3 reflects her passion for making complex blockchain advancements accessible and impactful. human.tech Why She’s a Game-Changer: Angelica’s expertise in branding and passion for human-centric technology are driving the acceptance and integration of blockchain into mainstream culture. Why She’s a Game-Changer: A Vision for 2025 and Beyond In 2025, the cryptocurrency and blockchain industries are being reshaped by a group of remarkable women whose leadership is driving innovation, inclusivity, and meaningful change. Figures such as Alicia Kao, Catherine Daly, Nelly Cornejo, Chi Zhang, Joana Barros, and Maly Ly stand at the forefront of this transformation, each contributing distinct expertise in areas like education, infrastructure, privacy, AI integration, community building, and accessibility. Their efforts are not only advancing the technical foundations of the crypto space but also fostering a more equitable and welcoming environment for participants worldwide. The significance of their work extends well beyond technological progress. By prioritizing people—whether through educating millions about cryptocurrency, developing secure and private systems, or cultivating inclusive communities—these women demonstrate that the future of crypto hinges on more than just code and transactions. It’s about forging connections, empowering individuals, and creating opportunities. Through their vision and tenacity, they are dismantling longstanding barriers and broadening access, ensuring that the decentralized landscape becomes a space where anyone, regardless of background, can engage and succeed. Looking ahead, the influence of these trailblazers promises to leave a lasting mark. Their groundbreaking contributions are laying the foundation for a more diverse, innovative, and resilient crypto ecosystem. As they continue to challenge conventions and redefine industry standards, Alicia, Catherine, Nelly, Chi, Joana, and Maly serve as both architects of the present and pioneers of what’s to come. Their stories are a powerful reminder that meaningful change often emerges from diverse voices willing to push boundaries. For those eager to glimpse the future of cryptocurrency, the paths these women are charting offer a compelling roadmap—one that invites us all to take part in shaping the next chapter. Don’t forget to like and share the story! Vested Interest Disclosure: This author is an independent contributor publishing via our business blogging program. HackerNoon has reviewed the report for quality, but the claims herein belong to the author. #DYOR Vested Interest Disclosure: This author is an independent contributor publishing via our business blogging program. HackerNoon has reviewed the report for quality, but the claims herein belong to the author. #DYOR Vested Interest Disclosure: business blogging program business blogging program

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