Meet Jessa Mae Melillo

We were lucky to catch up with Jessa Mae Melillo recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jessa Mae, so great to have you sharing your thoughts and wisdom with our readers and so let’s jump right into one of our favorite topics – empathy. We think a lack of empathy is at the heart of so many issues the world is struggling with and so our hope is to contribute to an environment that fosters the development of empathy. Along those lines, we’d love to hear your thoughts around where your empathy comes from?

Honestly, I think my empathy grew from a combination of personal experiences and the roles I’ve taken on in life both professionally and personally. I’ve been through moments where I felt deeply hurt, ignored, or misunderstood, and those situations taught me what it’s like to carry something heavy and still have to show up. Feeling that kind of pain made me more aware that so many people go through things quietly, and that even small acts of understanding or kindness can make a huge difference.

In my work life, being in a position of responsibility, I’ve learned how important it is to check in with people—
not just as workers but as humans. I try to really listen when someone talks, even between the lines, and I’ve seen how much it matters when someone feels heard and supported. I always remind myself that not everyone is going to say when they’re struggling, but you can feel it if you pay close enough attention.

I think empathy is something I naturally leaned into because I’ve always been someone who feels deeply. But I’ve also had to learn how to balance that with strength knowing when to protect my own energy while still being present for others. At the end of the day, I just want to be someone who helps create space where others feel safe, seen, and not judged because I know how powerful that can be, especially when you’re going through something quietly.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I love cooking and developing my skills, and I’m working independently to create the life I’ve always wanted. When I was 19, I started this journey alone in New York City. I didn’t really have a choice—I had to build the life I wanted, the same life my younger self had dreamed of for a long time.

My goal is to inspire others to never stop dreaming. No matter where you are in life, there’s always time to pursue your passions. Just keep praying, believing, and trusting that things will happen at the right time.

I’m still figuring out exactly what I want, but the important thing is that I’ve begun. Taking that first step is already a big achievement, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are resilience, self-motivation, and a willingness to keep learning.

Resilience helped me overcome challenges, especially starting out alone in a big city like New York. There were many moments when giving up seemed easier, but staying strong kept me moving forward.

Self-motivation has been essential because I’ve often worked independently, pushing myself to develop new skills and create opportunities without waiting for others.

Finally, being open to learning—whether through formal education, hands-on experience, or self-study—has allowed me to grow continuously and adapt to new situations.

My advice for those early in their journey is to embrace challenges as opportunities to build resilience. Stay curious and never stop learning, even when it feels difficult. Most importantly, find ways to motivate yourself daily, because your drive will carry you through the toughest times.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

me overcome challenges and develop the essential skills I needed to be successful are my sister and my brother, who are my number one supporters. I’m also grateful to the people who surround me and make me feel that I can do all things.

Additionally, my family has always encouraged me, and even those who doubted my abilities when I was younger pushed me in an unexpected way—they motivated me to prove that I’m capable and determined.

All these people, in different ways, have played a crucial role in shaping who I am and helping me grow.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Jemitaaaaa
• Facebook: Jm Pilones

Image Credits

Rocky, yasmin, jonathan, alejandro, mendez,isidro