Sonya Kuhnel

​Sonya Kuhnel is the Managing Director and Co-Founder of Bitcoin Events, an organization that hosts several Web3 events including Africa’s first and largest blockchain conference, the renowned Blockchain Africa Conference.

Sonya is an entrepreneur and educator in the blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors.

In 2013 she founded Bitcoin Payments, a BitPay affiliate that enabled South African merchants to accept Bitcoin for online transactions. ​

Recognizing the need for structured education in this emerging field, Sonya established the Blockchain Academy in 2015 which offers training on blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies.

​Sonya also co-founded Xago Technologies, a Cape Town-based company that provides an XRP cryptocurrency exchange, payment gateway, and payment platform for retailers. Xago leverages Ripple’s XRP ledger to facilitate fast, secure, and cost-effective transactions, showcasing Sonya’s commitment to advancing financial technology in Africa. ​

Sonya co-organizes the Bitcoin Cape Town Meetup group, fostering community engagement and knowledge sharing among cryptocurrency and blockchain enthusiasts.