Settings
Privacy is important to us, so you have the option to disable certain types of storage that may not be necessary for basic site functionality. Blocking categories may impact your site experience. Learn more
Privacy is important to us, so you have the option to disable certain types of storage that may not be necessary for basic site functionality. Blocking categories may impact your site experience. Learn more
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 Board Advisor
Adilah Holivay
CEO
Michelle O’Connor
Chief Strategic Officer
Yari Farias
Director of Operations
Michelle O’Connor
Chief Strategic Officer
Michelle O'Connor is the Vice President of Brand & Communications at TaxBit, a prominent industry leader in tax and accounting for digital assets. With her expertise and passion, Michelle is a powerhouse that spearheads all marketing and public relations efforts to position TaxBit as a force to be reckoned with.
Michelle's impact extends far beyond her role at TaxBit. As the Expansion Chair at NYC Women in FinTech, she drives the growth and empowerment of women in the financial technology sector. Her commitment to fostering innovation led her to serve on the Board of Directors of Crypto Connect and the Blockchain Steering Committee of the Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA), where she actively shapes the future of these emerging technologies.
Renowned as a seasoned speaker, Michelle captivates audiences with her deep knowledge and insights into the realms of crypto, web3, and fintech. Throughout her impressive 20-year career, she has graced numerous prestigious conferences, establishing herself as a subject matter expert in these cutting-edge fields.
A seasoned technology and financial services executive, Michelle is the Vice President of Strategic Initiatives & Global Communications at TaxBit. In this role, she leads all marketing and public relations to elevate TaxBit’s brand as an industry leader. Her team promotes an inclusive culture, driving engagement, and encouraging thought leadership and collaboration.
In addition to her role at TaxBit, Michelle is a well-known FinTech leader, Voted top 30 FinTech Marketer and Leading Web3 Executive.
She is passionate about improving access to financial services for the unbanked and has a proven track record of leading brand management, marketing communications, and community building in the FinTech space.
Before joining TaxBit, she was the VP of Marketing and Community at Uphold, a digital money platform. In that role, she developed and implemented the brand’s marketing strategy, brought cohesion and intention to the brand voice, and facilitated Uphold’s online community. She also managed public relations, content marketing and development, and social media strategy.
Michelle is also the Expansion Chair of NYC FinTech Women, a founding member of the Association Women in Crypto member, advisor for The Financial Club and Blockchain steering committee of WTIA.
Adilah Holivay
Chief Executive Officer
Aleks Ring
Board Member
Amanda Wick
Founder, Board Director, and Strategic Advisor (formerly CEO)
Andreé Goldsmith
Board Member
.jpeg)
Elizabeth Kay
Treasurer
Leslie Lambert
Board Member
Olta Andoni
Board Member
Richelle Cox
Board Member
Yevheniia Broshevan
Board Member
Leslie Lambert
Board Member
Leslie Lambert is a Senior Director in Alvarez & Marsal's Disputes and Investigations practice and a forensic accountant who helps clients uncover the facts behind complex financial matters. She advises clients facing investigations, disputes, distressed situations, and other high-stakes matters, helping them understand what happened, where funds moved, what risks exist, and what actions should follow.
That same investigative approach extends to the digital asset ecosystem, where Leslie leads digital asset tracing in connection with investigations, disputes, and other high-stakes matters. She previously led the crypto tracing work in one of the largest and most complex global cryptocurrency restructuring matters, establishing fund flows that supported stakeholder reporting, litigation objectives, and asset recovery initiatives.
For Leslie, the value of an investigation extends beyond reconstructing the past. She believes the best investigations provide the clarity organizations need to make informed decisions, strengthen governance, and move forward with confidence.
Leslie holds a bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Virginia and a master's degree in accountancy from the College of William & Mary. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF), Certified Cryptoasset Anti-Financial Crime Specialist (CCAS), and Certified Financial Crime Specialist (CFCS).
