The Association for Women In Cryptocurrency (AWIC) is a global platform for education, networking, and advocacy, made up of women, supportive allies, and companies committed to deepening their knowledge in the growing fields of cryptocurrency, digital assets, blockchain, Web3, and related technologies. AWIC also advocates for expanding opportunities for women and strengthening their role in the future of digital finance and innovation.
AWIC’s mission of creating greater inclusion and opportunities for women in the cryptocurrency and digital assets industry is fulfilled through three main pillars:
Advocacy—shaping public opinion, conducting research on the challenges women face in the industry, sponsoring forums where women and allies can share experiences and promote gender equity, and supporting companies with tools to improve workplace inclusion and employee well-being.
Networking—providing a strong community and promotional platforms where members can connect, explore business and career opportunities—both in the U.S. and globally—and gain visibility for their contributions to the industry.
Education—offering webinars, written resources, scholarships, and affordable access to cutting-edge courses provided by our educational partners, to help women and allies grow their knowledge and skills in the field.
Amanda Wick
Founder and CEO
Michelle O’Connor
Chief Strategic Officer
Yari Farias
Director of Operations
Yari Farias
Director of Operations
Yari Albano Farias, born in Argentina, holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Economics. His commitment to social and public service has been a defining feature of his career.
Yari has held roles in the political and governmental sphere. He served as a legislative advisor in the House of Deputies of the Province of Santa Fe, Argentina, and also worked as Coordinator of Organizational Development in the Rosario Municipality. He also worked as a freelance electoral research assistant.
In addition to his public sector service, he has worked in the non-profit sector as well. He worked in fundraising at the Foundation for Liberty and Progress and served as the Coordinator of Social Projects at the Foundation for Intellectual Responsibility, where he led the implementation of financial education seminars aimed at empowering individuals and communities in the economic realm.
His passion for advocacy, inclusion and financial education continues to guide his path, ultimately leading him to work for the Association for Women in Cryptocurrency.
Adilah Holivay
Consultant and Founder
Ayana Murphy
Board Member
Beth Bisbee
Board Member
Gabriella Kusz
Board Member
Mike Carter
Board Member
Steve Vallas
Board Member
Steve Vallas
Board Member
Steve is a qualified lawyer and a seasoned strategist in the fields of blockchain technology and management. His early adoption of social channels, combined with a lifelong dedication to studying economics and emerging technologies, has uniquely positioned him to have a profound understanding of the evolving blockchain technology and its far-reaching impact across industries.
Currently holding the prestigious position of Managing Director at Blockchain APAC, he also serves as a Digital Assets advisor at Zerocap and contributes his expertise as an APAC advisor at the GDF Global Blockchain Business Council. Notably, he previously held the esteemed role of CEO at Blockchain Australia.
Throughout his career, his impact has played an instrumental role in shaping the digital assets landscape in Australia. He has actively engaged with key Australian regulators, including the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, Commonwealth Treasury, ACCC, AUSTRAC, and the Reserve Bank of Australia. His valuable insights have influenced Australian Senate hearings and advisory panels like the ASIC Digital Finance Advisory Panel and the Council of Financial Regulators.
His influence extends beyond Australia, as he collaborates with authorities in New Zealand, such as the Financial Services Council, Reserve Bank of New Zealand, Department of Internal Affairs, and Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment.
Internationally, he has forged connections with esteemed institutions, including the US Federal Reserve and the US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. He is known for fostering partnerships and sharing knowledge with organizations like the German Ministry of Economics, APEC, Blockchain Ireland, and the South Korean National Assembly.
Steven is deeply committed to driving innovation and championing regulatory clarity within the digital asset ecosystem.