Melissa’s passion for problem-solving and empowering women is rooted in her upbringing in a developing country, where being the last-born girl in a family of six surrounded by four brothers meant constantly being told to wait. “Let the boys go first,” “Give them the toy first,” “Let them get the allowance first” these were phrases she heard often. From a young age, Melissa was conditioned to believe that she came second, that her voice, needs, and dreams could wait.
But deep inside, she always knew she was capable of more. Despite the familial and societal expectations that urged her to stay in line, Melissa carried within her a quiet rebellion, a belief that she could rise beyond what tradition had assigned her. It took her a decade, and the life-altering loss of her mother, to realize that time was not a luxury she could afford. The world was not going to hand her a turn. So, she stopped waiting.
Melissa made the bold decision to resign from her stable job and return to Kenya to pursue her entrepreneurial dreams. It was a leap into the unknown, and with it came self-doubt and imposter syndrome. But this time, instead of shrinking back, she turned fear into fuel.Driven by a deep desire to rewrite the African narrative, especially for women, Melissa embarked on a mission to create lasting impact through action. She founded Gandir Africa, not just as a business, but as a movement a platform where women are no longer asked to wait for their chance but are equipped to take it.
Why Melissa’s Story Matters Melissa’s story is one of resilience, courage, and self-belief. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful transformation comes when we finally stop asking for permission and start creating our own opportunities. Having walked the path of being underestimated and overlooked, Melissa is now committed to ensuring that other women don’t have to do the same. Through Gandir Africa, she helps women entrepreneurs unlock their full potential offering strategic guidance, tools, and mentorship to scale sustainably and lead with purpose. Her lived experience gives her a unique empathy for the women she serves. She doesn’t just coach from a textbook, she walks alongside her clients with a deep understanding of their struggles and a relentless belief in their greatness.
Through Gandir Africa, Melissa continues to inspire, equip, and champion a new generation of women entrepreneurs building businesses that are not only profitable but transformative.
"A woman is like a tea bag; you never know how strong she is until she’s in hot water." Eleanor Roosevelt
