Aya was originally fascinated by the blockchain space for its potential to impact financial inclusion in emerging markets. In early 2013, she joined Kraken and educated regulators, the media, and the public about cryptocurrencies and blockchain innovation globally, as Managing Director of Japan.

Her passion for blockchain and the creation of lasting sustainable impact led her to join the Ethereum Foundation as CEO. There, she leads the Foundation team to support efforts in the Ethereum ecosystem, including many-core Ethereum activities, research and development; and educational efforts related to the advancement of technology.

In 2019, she was also appointed as a member of the Global Blockchain Council of the World Economic Forum and a member of the Board of the Ethereum Enterprise Alliance.