On the eve of International Women’s Day, Marta Belcher, a pioneer in blockchain law, shared insights into her journey and the evolving role of women in the crypto space. As the president of the Filecoin Foundation and an advocate for digital rights, Belcher has played a significant role in shaping blockchain policy worldwide.

Her career began with advocacy work in public health policy, pushing for umbilical cord blood banking. This early engagement with policy-making laid the foundation for her later work in technology law. Transitioning into blockchain, she started by advising early crypto companies on patent issues, eventually becoming a key figure in policy discussions about the technology’s potential and risks.

Belcher's passion for blockchain stems from its ability to protect privacy and promote civil liberties in a digital age. She believes that decentralization offers a fundamental shift away from centralized data control, empowering individuals. Her role at Protocol Labs and the Blockchain Association further underscores her commitment to this cause.

While the crypto industry is often perceived as male-dominated, Belcher challenges this narrative. She points out that many influential figures in the space, including leaders of major crypto industry groups, are women. At Filecoin Foundation, where she leads, the team is predominantly female, a reflection of hiring the best talent rather than meeting diversity quotas.

Managing multiple roles across various organizations, Belcher credits her “work-life integration” approach, where her professional and personal interests align seamlessly. This philosophy allows her to stay deeply involved in projects that matter to her, reinforcing her broader mission of using technology to safeguard civil liberties.

The discussion also touched on gender disparities in the crypto space. While some reports suggest a gender-based wage gap, others claim a “reverse gap” where women are paid more. Belcher acknowledges these conflicting perspectives but stresses that her experience in the industry has been positive, surrounded by capable women leading the charge in blockchain development and policy.

As the industry continues to grow, Belcher remains optimistic about its potential to drive positive change. She emphasizes that blockchain technology isn’t just about financial transactions; it’s about reshaping how society interacts with digital assets and data. With women increasingly taking leadership roles in the space, she sees a bright future where inclusivity and innovation go hand in hand.