Grace Chen: The main thing is to believe in himself and take the first step

Gracie, you are not just leading one of the world’s leading crypto -streaks – you also create a space for women in the world of Web3. What personally inspired you to launch Blockchain4her?

In 2024, Bitget launched the Blockchain4her initiative – a program that has deep personal importance for me. My path in the crypto space began in the financial company Accumulus, where I was the only woman among the founders. Later, when I decided to launch my own startup, I faced a striking example of bias: the risk manager said that he would not invest in a company led by a woman, especially recently married and has no children. It was a moment that shook my confidence, but also opened his eyes to the barriers that women in the industry face.

Today, working in Bitget, I am proud that I am a part of a team that realizes the gender inequality in the crypto and web3 transist and taking specific steps to eliminate it. From industrial events, where men act mainly to the lack of funding for projects led by women – it is obvious that inclusiveness here is not just a value, but a necessity. That is why we created Blockchain4her: to actively support, finance and strengthen the initiatives led by women in Web3. The program is supported by an obligation of $ 10 million and is aimed at providing resources, visibility and opportunities for women founding and innovators around the world.

Blockchain4her is more than a campaign. This is a mission to create real changes in the crypto industry and the formation of a more inclusive and balanced future.

Web3 and cryptocurrency still seem frightening or “too tech” for many women. What would you say to those who are interested, but do not know where to start?

I would just say: do not be afraid to enter this market. Despite the fact that the cryptocurrency and technology industry mainly has a male person, it is also based on the principles of inclusiveness, innovation and decentralization – there is a place for everyone.

As a founding woman and CEO of technological companies, I came across many calls. But these difficulties did not stop me – on the contrary, they prompted me to create changes and act consciously. Blockchain is a huge and promising technology that covers many industries and opens the boundless opportunities for growth, construction and leadership. If you have passion, curiosity and desire to study, this industry can reward you with incredible achievements and recognition.

So study, act, take responsibility – and do not be afraid to be a leader. Remember: your achievements are determined not by the floor, but by the value that you create with your skills, perseverance and labor.

You have created safe spaces and educational programs through Blockchain4her. Why is the community so important for women in this industry?

The community is the basis of real changes, especially for women in the field of blockchain and Web3. In the industry, where men still dominate, the supporting network can play a decisive role. It is not only about inclusiveness – it is important to create a space where women feel confident, capable of leading, introducing innovations and developing. A strong community provides support, exchange of knowledge and access to opportunities, and when women support women, the whole industry wins.

Tell us more about the Pitch’n Slay contest – it seems that this is something between Shark Tank and Ted Talk. What ideas led by women inspired you the most?

Pitch’n Slay was aimed at attracting attention to projects led by women capable of creating significant changes in the real world. The jury evaluated projects according to several criteria: the presence of at least one woman in the leadership, the innovative use of blockchain technologies, such as Defi and AI, and orientation on social benefits. We preferred projects with clear practical use, especially in the context of Southeast Asia. The early signs of success and scalability potential in the Web3 Ecosystem were also valued.

You met world leaders at the UN to discuss gender equality in technology. What is the conclusion from this experience for you the most powerful?

Participation in the 68th session of the annual UN commission for women has become for me a truly inspiring and enlightening experience. Communication with leaders, agents of change and activists from around the world has opened unique opportunities for studying strategies to expand the rights and capabilities of women and youth. It also reminded me of our general responsibility for building a more stable and fair future.

Most of all I was struck by the power of cooperation – like different voices, sectors and views united for the sake of a common goal: promoting gender equality and inclusion at a global level. The passion and commitment of the participants threw me deeply and inspired me to apply the acquired knowledge to continue the Bitget mission to support the diversity and inclusiveness in the crypto and blockchain transisture.

Have you encountered difficulties as a woman in the blockchain industry, a traditionally considered male industry? And how do you turn this into motivation?

Yes, being a woman in a predominantly male sphere, such as blockchain, is not easy. There were times when I was one of the few women in the hall, and I was not always taken seriously. However, instead of allowing these difficulties to stop me, I turned them into a source of motivation.

Each test only enhances my determination to create a space for women in this industry. This motivates me not only to prove my competence, but also to open the way for others. These experiences fuel my passion to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in technology. As a result, I perceive difficulties as opportunities for innovation and creating a long -term positive influence – both for myself and for future generations of women in the blockchain.

Bitget proves that technologies are not required to be cold and excluding. How do you combine innovation with empathy in your leadership?

In Bitget, we believe that technology should be affordable, inclusive and focused on humans. Innovation is not only advanced tools and complex systems, it is also the creation of solutions that truly improve people’s lives. As a leader, I strive to combine innovations with empathy, so that our team not only extends the boundaries of the possible, but also holds user experience and human values ​​at the forefront.

It is about understanding the needs of the community, listening to his voice and developing products that really benefit. We believe that the future of technology is the ability to balance progress with compassion – creating a space where everyone can realize themselves.

Fashion, fitness, finances – Web3 penetrates everywhere. In what unexpected areas, in your opinion, women have a significant impact?

Web3 affects many industries, and women achieve significant success in the most unexpected of them. For example, in sustainable development, they lead projects of environmentally friendly blockchain solutions and transparent supply chains. In education, women create decentralized platforms that expand access to knowledge. In healthcare – they develop technologies that give people control over their medical data.

These are only some of the examples of how women move innovations and influence areas that go beyond the traditional Web3.

What one advice would you give every young girl who dreams of more, but is afraid of technology?

My advice is simple: believe me and take the first step. The technological industry, especially such directions as blockchain and cryptocurrencies, may seem frightening, but the only thing that is between you and success is the courage to start. The world desperately needs new views, and women bring unique innovations and creativity.

Do not let fear or doubts stop you – every step brings you closer to real influence. Surrounding yourself with a supporting community, learn and always remember: your voice and contribution are important. Dream in a big one, start small and do not stop.