Melina is an energetic and outspoken artist which led her to graduate from the University of Windsor with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Visual Arts.Art has been a creative outlet for Melina throughout her life, and she has ventured through many different avenues of art including dancing, photography, fashion designing, and painting. This 27-year-old graduated from Fanshawe, receiving the Dean’s Honor roll with a 97% overall average, with a certificate in Autism and Behavioural Sciences. She will be advancing her education with a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology to become a therapist for her to utilise her skills to teach others how to effectively manage their mental health through advanced modalities and therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy.

Growing up, Melina experienced her own mental health struggles and was undiagnosed with anxiety until the age of 21. While pursuing her post-secondary education, she took proactive steps to seek support from the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) and the University of Windsor counselling services, utilising available resources to facilitate her healing and personal development. This experience ignited Melina’s passion for advocating for mental health and well-being within her community.

For 5 years Melina has been a dedicated ambassador with the CMHA, which has amplified her efforts to combat the stigma surrounding mental health issues. With a commitment exceeding 850 hours over the years, she engages in advocacy, volunteering, and fundraising initiatives aimed at promoting mental health awareness. Melina’s individual fundraising efforts have generated $3000 in donations for the CMHA, contributing to the essential support and resources for individuals in need. The fundraisers that have contributed to her success in raising funds are MOVE it: for mental health involving activities of Zumba and pilates, and a 5K Fundraiser.

To Melina, pageantry has been her path to success in her academics, philanthropy, and her personal fulfilment by learning how to overcome difficulties and fear of failure. Through her 9 years of experience in pageantry, Melina has learned that whether a pageant is a win or a loss, there is success to be celebrated. It is a quote that has brought her success and helped her win the title of Miss Tecumseh 2019, along with Miss Congeniality. As Miss Windsor, Melina plans to utilise the platform to further her role and impact as a CMHA ambassador and to promote her personal advocacy through hosting fundraising events to raise $5000 for mental health and wellness across Windsor and Essex County.