The Rising Women in Crypto Awards celebrate the trailblazing women redefining what’s possible in blockchain, fintech, and Web3. Each year, we bring together industry leaders who champion innovation, inclusion, and impact — and this year’s judges are no exception.
Our 2025 panel is made up of exceptional women shaping the global crypto landscape — from founders and CEOs to educators and advocates. They bring a wealth of experience, diverse perspectives, and a shared passion for empowering others to rise.
Let’s meet the inspiring judges who will help us spotlight the next generation of female changemakers in crypto.
Ada Vaughan
Ada Vaughan's entrepreneurial endeavors in fintech and blockchain brought her to the Stellar Development Foundation, where she focuses on partnership strategies to expand DeFi on Stellar.
With a background in startups and go-to-market strategy, Ada has led growth for a leading non-custodial wallet, consumer finance apps, and Web3 security companies. She volunteers as an entrepreneurship advisor for TechStars, and for the business schools at Georgetown University and Cornell University.
Ada earned her international MBA from Georgetown University McDonough School of Business, holds a Women in Leadership certification from Cornell University and DeFi certificates from Duke University.
Ada speaks Spanish, French, and Crypto. Find her on telegram @CriptoAda or X @adavaughan.
Allison Alvarez
Allison Alvarez is the co-founder of Gameduk, a platform reshaping how people learn, validate skills, and access opportunities through gamified challenges that go beyond traditional credentials. Gameduk empowers educators, brands, and creators to build engaged learning communities and identify real talent through measurable, actionable experiences.
As the Lead of Stellar Ambassadors Peru, Allison bridges technology and education, promoting blockchain adoption and connecting innovative projects with strategic partners and resources.
Driven by a mission to democratize education and empower communities, she focuses on building scalable models that position LATAM at the forefront of the EdTech, gamification, and Web3 ecosystem.
Alena Afanaseva
Alena Afanaseva, CEO and founder of Beincrypto.com, brings over a decade of traditional finance experience to the decentralized economy.
Since 2018, she’s grown the platform into a global crypto news hub with 8M monthly visitors and a 200-member team from 60+ countries. Beincrypto.com covers news in 20 languages, ensuring a broad reach.
Alena’s expertise spans macroeconomics, monetary policy, and financial asset analysis. She’s also a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment in web3. Committed to unbiased reporting, she drives digital finance evolution while promoting diversity.
Catherine Ross-Mychka
She is a veteran in crypto journalism with over 8 years of experience in the industry. Her previous roles include deputy editor in chief at Cointelegraph, managing editor and podcast host at Benzinga, and editorial director and chief strategy officer at crypto.news.
She hosted dozens of events and expert panels around the globe and interviewed hundreds of speakers, including presidents, billionaires, CEOs, and thought leaders.
Maria Pia Paolicelli
Mary specializes in partnership management and event organization in the Web3 space, with a strong passion for art and emerging technologies.
A year ago, she co-founded CryptoGirl, the first inclusive Italian community dedicated to promoting women's participation in Web3, blockchain, and cryptocurrency.
Her mission is to bridge the gender gap in these fields by providing education and collaborating with industry-leading companies. As a media partner, she actively participates in global tech and Web3 conferences.
Outro: Join Us in Celebrating Women Shaping the Future of Crypto
These incredible women embody what the Rising Women in Crypto Awards are all about — leadership, innovation, and community. Their collective experience reminds us that progress in the digital economy depends on diversity, collaboration, and fearless creativity.
Now it’s your turn to be part of this movement.
Nominate an inspiring woman in crypto by 30th November and help us celebrate those driving the industry forward.
👉 Submit your nominations here
Let’s rise together — because the future of crypto is diverse, inclusive, and unstoppable.