As a Manager II, SDR for RollWorks, a division of NextRoll, and the Co-President of RollDeep, NextRoll’s ERG focused on Black inclusivity, Melina understands how effective mentoring and coaching helps her team of six succeed. In fact, “Being a part of a company that genuinely cares about its employees' wellbeing,” is the primary reason she joined NextRoll. 

What does ambition mean to you?

Ambition is challenging the status quo, always delivering my best, and leading with purpose. This resonates with me specifically because I know when I apply these things, I can achieve anything I put my mind to. For example, my ambition is what motivated me to take the leap from a career in HR/Payroll into Sales. Not only did Sales align more closely with my personality, but it allowed me to learn more aspects of an organization – such as Marketing, Finance, and Accounting.

How do you maintain work/life balance?

This has challenged me, but I’ve learned over the years, especially as a parent, to utilize my calendar. I write down my daily tasks on my to-do list and prioritize them from most to least important. By doing this, I’m able to focus on my side hustles and spend more time with my children, husband, family, and friends.

What words do you live by?

Good things come to those who are patient. I’ve learned that everything in life is a process. To go through this process, you must be patient because there are always ups and downs.

Who’s your favorite woman leader or mentor and why?

My favorite woman leader is Bozoma St. John, the current CMO of Netflix. I had the pleasure of meeting her in 2019, and I was stoked! She has an amazing personality and an unparalleled drive. She is bold, tells it as it is, and uses her voice to elevate other women. In the past, several people told Bozoma that she couldn’t do it, and others looked down on her because she is a Black woman. But through it all, she kept her head up and never let words bring her down. Instead, she utilizes the negative comments to strive for more. She keeps me motivated and let’s me know I can also reach the top. 

How do you want to leave the working world for women in 20 years?

Where all women will be paid equally to men. And for Black women, specifically, they’ll have all the support and access they need to advance in Corporate America.

Feeling ambitious? Learn how we empower women here at NextRoll and help them thrive in their careers.