~ Find Your Path and Walk It. Don’t Quit on You.~
About
Melin Edomwonyi lives life boldly – with courage, conviction and passion, which she cultivated through her life experiences. She turns ‘no’, ‘rejection’ and ‘critique’ to opportunities and possibilities. Firstly, to better understand herself and secondly, to not quit on herself or her dreams because others felt differently. Born and raised in Turkey, Melin’s a multi-hyphenate. She’s a graphic and UX designer, creative director, mentor, event organizer, MixednConfused show host and consultant, to name a few. Melin moved to the UK to pursue her passion for studying graphic design, and after working in both London and Turkey, she returned to the UK, making Cardiff her home.
Entrepreneur ~ What’s your definition?
For Melin, an entrepreneur has ideas and isn’t afraid of making them happen. “Failure does not get in the way as entrepreneurs recognize that it’s a continuing journey of trial and exploration to nurture projects and businesses,” she says, reflecting on the relaunch of her lifestyle brand, Lil Titsy.
Characteristic of an Entrepreneur – Your top 3
Courage – “You never know if you can make things happen, you have to try, and that takes courage,” she says. Drive is her motivation to keep persevering and, at times, the energy to take matters head-on. Purpose – This is a priority for Melin, who takes time to check the bigger goal of impact on the community despite her many projects. “It’s gotta be more than just your benefit,” she says.
Entrepreneurship style – collaborate, lift each other and stay authentic
Melin rolls on her high energy and champions collaboration, particularly new talent and creates opportunities for them. “I love the joy and sparkles from sharing ideas,” she says. Reflecting on her own experiences, she emphasizes the rough starts and takes on this ‘mentor’ role to show them the ropes and guide them where she can.
“Staying authentic is important to me. I put faith in people, and at times, it can be disappointing when energies don’t match and causes lack of communication.” However, pushing past this needs courage, and Melin has learned to keep going, believing in her vision and finding other ways to embrace it. One thing she does not do is quit; she finds a path and walks it. As a leader, Melin encourages feedback as an essential growth element. “Growing should never stop, even if you are a leader, and it becomes even more important to receive feedback in this stage,” she adds.
Keep moving and fill up with inspiration
Melin keeps herself motivated through dance and movement. Staying active is essential for a balanced and healthy mind. Melin’s often seen with books and surrounded by inspiring quotes. Brene Brown is amongst her favourite authors.
What’s the best advice you have received?
“Words by Brene Brown on embracing imperfections and my therapist on being kind to myself.”
How do you pick yourself up from a not-so-great day?
“I accept that it’s ok to have a bad day. I didn’t feel like this before. But, learning to be kinder, showing compassion and permitting myself to rest has helped me. The next day is ultimately better, and things pick up.”
What would you say to someone reading this?
“There is always an alternative way. Society, the education system and everything tells you to follow a path but trust me; sometimes you find yourself and your path in the most unusual places. So do your thing, and like David Hieatt said, “One of the biggest gifts you can give to your ideas is not to quit on them.” If you put your energy into something, it will turn into something someday. So don’t give up.”
How would you describe your journey as a quote?
“You are only seeing the tip of the iceberg.”
~ Entrepreneur Your Life: Lead on your terms is an empowering account of women around the globe who carved their paths. Driven by passion and perseverance, these women created possibilities for themselves despite the odds. Resourceful and resilient, they represent remarkable strength of character and show us how to be the entrepreneurs of our life. ~
Category: Entrepreneur Your Life