Melanie Gray

Melanie Gray, 30’s 
Chicagoland, IL
she/her

Current Role: Project Manager + Entrepreneur

What racial, ethnic, cultural community or communities do you identify with?
African American/Black.

When and how did your family come to the United States? Where were you born?
I don't have my entire family history but my great-grandparents were born in the United States. My maternal great-grandmother was Native American/Indigenous.

What are the strengths and challenges of being African American/Black?
One strength is our resilience, our ability to endure and still accomplish great things. One challenge is always feeling that your intelligence may be questioned because of the color of your skin.

What is your proudest accomplishment?
Graduating from Howard University. Before attending Howard, I admired the school because of its legacy of excellence. Now, I can count myself in that legacy of excellence. I am a very proud Howard University graduate.

What is one thing you learned or appreciate from your family growing up?
My family instilled in me a sense of moral integrity and to remember to be kind to others.

Do you speak your family's native language? Why or why not?
Yes.

What advice do you have for the younger generations in your African American/Black community?
Get to know yourself, love yourself fully and unapologetically... and then let that love shine and inspire others to love themselves in the same way.

What gives you the greatest joy in life?
Traveling + LAUGHTER! I love to laugh. Laughter heals my soul. Laughing is even better while exploring new places.

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