CoinDesk’s Leading Women: Pioneers of Collaboration in AI and Blockchain

The inaugural Top 50 Women in Web3 & AI list from CoinDesk, launched in June 2025, honors trailblazers such as Nkiru Uwaje, Yasmina Kazitani, and Daniela Amodei.

These women represent the pinnacle of innovation not isolated by gender but rather unified through shared goals. Julia Bonafede, a judge for this selection, states that their stories illustrate the necessity for collaborative progress within the tech landscape.

Celebrating Innovation

The selection process was highly competitive, with over 300 nominees reviewed by a diverse panel. Ultimately, the list highlights 50 visionaries who are not simply participating in technology — they are leading it.

Leaders Making a Difference

• Nkiru Uwaje, Co-Founder and COO of MANSA, describes herself as a builder and advocate for financial democratization. Her firm has raised $10 million, enabling instant funding in Africa, showcasing the power of stablecoins.
• Yasmina Kazitani, Co-President of the Blockchain Game Alliance, is propelling Africa as a significant entity in Web3 gaming through strategic partnerships.
• Daniela Amodei of Anthropic champions ethical AI development, having co-founded the company with a focus on safety and principled values after her tenure at OpenAI.
• Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget, leads initiatives for gender equity while fostering a supportive ecosystem for women in tech.

The Path Forward

To truly unlock the potential of innovation, there must be systemic changes, promoting collaboration across genders. It’s imperative that conferences feature mixed panels and that investors commit to funding diverse teams. The futures forged by these women alongside their male counterparts redefine the tech landscape.

Together, these leaders not only advocate for inclusion; they embody the principles of collaborative innovation that can drive industries forward.