Melissa’s entrepreneurial spirit can be traced to her mother, who arrived in England as a child, achieved a perfect study score, and went on to attend university. The child of immigrant parents, Melissa grew up with one older brother in a family she describes as kind and civic-minded.

During her twenties, she launched a string of businesses, including her very first app with real-time alerts and live blogs.

Melissa continued to show a keen interest in art throughout her time at school, and finished her education at a top boarding school in Gatton Park, England. After School, she worked in the accessories and art departments, where she was involved in selling accessories.

Melissa’s upbringing sparked her desire to make the most in-demand goods affordable for all Turks.