Who am I 

I'm thrilled to share with you the rollercoaster ride of my life that took me from being a high school dropout to being named Blockchain Leader of the Year in 2023. This story is one of transformation, driven by an unwavering commitment to my goals.

 

My life wasn't always about blockchain and accolades. Let's rewind to where it all began in Canada. Growing up, I yearned for financial security and freedom, keen to break away from the cycle of substance abuse and early parenthood that plagued my family. This desire led me to make tough choices, including dropping out of high school. My career began in the bustling world of hospitality, where I spent two decades mastering customer service, event management, and leadership skills. This phase, though demanding, was instrumental in shaping my organizational skills and people-centric approach. However, deep down, I knew I was destined for something more profound.

 

My real pivot came in 2013, following a personal setback. In 2014, I found myself in Australia, determined to carve a new path. Initially, I pursued a career in fitness coaching, driven by a passion for health and wellness. I launched my first online business and obtained my fitness training qualifications. But fate had other plans for me. Due to visa constraints, I stayed in hospitality, all the while searching for that elusive opportunity to transform my life.

 

That opportunity came in the form of cryptocurrency and blockchain. I stumbled upon this fascinating world and was instantly hooked. The more I learned, the more I realized that this wasn't just a financial breakthrough; it was a technological revolution.

 

In late 2017, I jumped headfirst into crypto, riding the wave of the bull market. But it wasn't until 2019 that I truly grasped the potential of a career in blockchain. I began channeling my two decades of event organizing experience into this fascinating field. However, it wasn't all smooth sailing. The onset of COVID-19 posed significant challenges. I lost my job in hospitality and had to put my new business Australian Pathways that I launched in March 2020 that was going to help international students come to Australia to study blockchain, on hold. Yet, I persevered and was lucky enough to be offered an entry-level role in the blockchain industry while completing my academic studies in blockchain and obtaining my qualifications to become a vocational educator.

 

This period marked a significant pivot as I worked towards becoming a blockchain trainer, recognizing the shortage in the field. Despite the challenges I faced in 2020/2021, I persevered, ultimately being the first international students and women to graduate with a diploma and advanced diploma in applied blockchain. I then continued on to obtain a Bachelor of Honors in Business Information Systems. This accomplishment added a vital academic foundation to my practical experience.

 

During my studies, I founded "All Things Blockchain" in November 2020, a non-profit association that organizes free education networking events and has since flourished to over 2,300 members, hosting more than 130 events with over 5k attendees. This initiative was a cornerstone in my journey, showcasing my knack for bringing people together and demystifying the complexities of blockchain technology.

 

Additionally, in 2020, I launched "She's Blockchain Savvy." This venture was more than just a business; it was a mission to demystify the complexities of blockchain and cryptocurrency for beginners. I have helped over 1,000 students learn the basics of crypto and blockchain.

 

"She's Blockchain Savvy" was my way of bridging the gap between complex blockchain concepts and those eager to learn. I developed beginner courses, focusing on the essentials of crypto and blockchain, tailored for students stepping into this field. This endeavor was a critical step in my journey, as it allowed me to combine my passion for teaching with my newfound love for blockchain technology.

 

Fast forward to today, I am the head blockchain trainer at TAFE QLD, which offers the diploma of applied blockchain on their fee-free program, leading the charge in educating the next generation of blockchain professionals. Additionally, I work with students who study at their own pace through Saltera Web3.

 

Recently, I launched a new initiative, Women in the Digital Economy, dedicated to fostering inclusivity in the tech world, especially for women, through educational and mentorship programs.

 

My educational endeavors were not just limited to my businesses. In 2023, I achieved a significant milestone in my career: I was appointed as a member of the blockchain committee for the Australian Computer Society. This role entrusted me with the responsibility of educating society members about blockchain technology and focusing on community growth. It was a recognition of my expertise and a platform to further my impact. In this role, I'm on a personal mission to spearhead the development of skill assessments for blockchain professionals. This initiative is close to my heart, as it aims to open up skilled migration pathways for web3 businesses in Australia. By setting these benchmarks, we're not just validating expertise; we're also paving the way for a more robust, skilled, and diverse blockchain workforce in the country.

 

My contributions to the industry have been diverse and impactful. I've personally hosted over 150 events, with more than 6,000 attendees, educating thousands about crypto and blockchain. Speaking at major conferences and being an ambassador for initiatives like Women in Blockchain Australia and Polkadot have been integral to my mission.

 

Receiving the Blockchain Leader of the Year award in November 2023 was a moment of profound recognition. It wasn't just for the events I've hosted or the students I've taught; it was for my leadership in community building, mentoring, and shaping the future of blockchain education.

 

Looking forward to 2024, I'm excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. The industry is buzzing with innovation, especially as we enter a new bull market phase. My focus now is on expanding my training initiatives, nurturing the Women in Digital Economy community, and growing "All Things Blockchain" into Australia's largest meetup group.

 

My journey is proof that your past doesn't dictate your future. It's your grit, your vision, and your willingness to embrace change that defines your path. So, to anyone out there doubting their potential, remember – the blockchain isn't just a technology; it's a symbol of transformation, and so is my story.

 

Remember, it's never too late to change your story. Your past doesn't define you; your actions do. Here's to a future where we all thrive in this exciting world of blockchain and beyond!

 

Danielle Marie