Melissa is an award-winning entrepreneur, educator and speaker. She believes optimistically and passionately in the power of technology.

Described as “unstoppable” and a “trailblazer”, Melissa has devoted her professional life to helping advance a vision of the world in which all people have the skills and confidence to leverage technology responsibly to create a better, more inclusive future.

Melissa is best known for her role as the Co-Founder and CEO of Canada Learning Code, where she helped build and lead one of the country’s leading education organizations, teaching future-proof technical skills and helping almost 1 million people learn.  She worked with leading organizations including Amazon, Google, Microsoft, TikTok, TD Bank and more.  She has been featured in media outlets like CTV, CBC, and the Globe & Mail and her leadership was recognized through a Governor General Award, RBC Entrepreneur of the Year, WXN Top 100 and Canada’s Top 40 Under 40. She was even honoured with a one-of-a-kind Barbie made in her likeness by Barbie/Mattel.

Since passing on the torch as CEO of Canada Learning Code, she has continued to share insights and inspiration through speaking engagements and teaching undergraduate students at the Ivey School of Business how to leverage information technology.  In addition, Melissa works as an advisor and consultant to organizations at the intersections of technology, innovation and education.

Melissa taught herself how to build websites from scratch using HTML when she was 11 years old and is enjoying being a new mom chasing after her toddler, Aria.

In this thought-provoking talk, Melissa, an award-winning entrepreneur and technology educator, delves into the pressing question of how we can prepare individuals for jobs that don’t yet exist or jobs that are radically changing in front of their eyes. Drawing from her academic research and extensive experience as the Co-Founder of Canada Learning Code, Melissa brings a unique perspective to the table.

While lifelong learning is often touted as the solution, Melissa challenges this conventional wisdom, reminding us that we cannot solve the challenges of the future with the same thinking that created them. To thrive in our ever-evolving workplaces, we need more than just continuous learning; we need to unlearn the old ways and embrace a new model for reskilling.

Join Melissa as she explores a compelling vision for a future where Canadians not only adapt to the jobs and technologies of tomorrow but thrive in them. This talk is a call to action, inviting you to be part of a transformative journey towards a more resilient and forward-thinking workforce.

In this inspirational talk, Melissa, an award-winning entrepreneur and technology educator invites you on a journey through her career work which was recognized with some of the highest honors: a Governor General Award for advancing gender equity and a one-of-a-kind Barbie® doll made in her likeness.

Through engaging storytelling, Melissa shares anecdotes and lessons learned from her journey building one of Canada’s largest technology education organizations aimed at increasing diversity in the tech industry. This memoir-style talk is a powerful reminder that breaking the mold is not only possible but essential for personal and professional growth. 

Join Melissa for an unforgettable exploration of her entrepreneurial journey and leave inspired to break your own molds, shatter expectations, and pave the way for a brighter future.

Melissa often builds custom talks and presentations on the topics of technology, innovation and education for corporations, K-12 and post-secondary school leaders, students and parents. She does her homework and offers her own research and insights to create a memorable, thought-provoking and inspiring speaking engagement.