We were lucky to catch up with Kalinivel “lini” Melo recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kalinivel “LINI”, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Since I was young, I’ve always had a love for creating. Whether it was making hair tutorials, putting together little projects, or figuring out how to share ideas in a way that felt authentic, content creation was something that came naturally to me. Back then, I didn’t realize it was something I could turn into a purpose. I just knew I genuinely loved it.
As I grew older, that passion stuck with me, evolving into something I couldn’t ignore. I found myself constantly looking for ways to create and share, even when life pulled me in different directions. I tried different jobs, worked in environments that didn’t fit me, and kept searching for something that felt right. But deep down, I knew that my heart belonged to the world of content creation.
Even when others didn’t quite understand what I was doing or why I was so committed, I stayed focused. To me, it didn’t matter if people understood it. As long as I believed in my vision, that was enough. Those were the moments where I had to block out the noise, silence the doubt, and truly lock in on what mattered most.
It wasn’t always easy. There were nights when I’d come home from my full-time jobs, exhausted, but still find myself dedicating hours to perfecting my craft. I studied how to build personal brands, support small businesses, and create meaningful content that connected with people. I wasn’t just working. I was building something that felt like home to me.
Looking back, I realize that this journey wasn’t just about finding my purpose. It was about creating it, piece by piece, through every challenge and every moment of growth. And I’ve learned that when you trust yourself and stay true to what fuels you, everything else eventually falls into place.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m a creative girlie who thrives on working with small business owners, personal brands, and special events like weddings and more. My work is rooted in storytelling. Whether it’s crafting impactful content, curating unforgettable moments, or helping others bring their vision to life. Collaboration and connection fuel me, and I love creating meaningful projects that resonate deeply.
I take immense pride in stepping into any room with confidence and purpose. It’s empowering to walk into spaces without a doubt in my heart, knowing that when I’m secure in who I am, nothing else can shake me and people feel that. That self-assurance has opened doors for me to grow in my craft and connect with incredible people along the way.
In addition to my creative work, I’m passionate about body positivity and wellness. I’ve built a brand, DearBodyDiary.Co, that celebrates individuality, self-love, and community. Through events and initiatives, I aim to inspire others to embrace who they are and prioritize their well-being. It’s so rewarding to create spaces where people feel seen, supported, and celebrated for being who they are. Our mission is to challenge societal beauty standards, promote inclusivity and create a diverse community because every(body) deserves a voice.
Giving back to the community is also something I hold close to my heart. I actively visit schools to connect with young girlies, encouraging them to dream big and believe in their potential as a speaker. Helping them see that their voice matters and that they can achieve anything they set their mind to is one of the most fulfilling aspects of what I do.
This year, I’m excited about expanding my work, from hosting events that bring people together in meaningful ways to launching projects that empower and inspire. My goal is to continue building a brand that reflects authenticity, growth, and community, while staying true to the vision that has guided me all along.
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 were most impactful in my journey are: resilience, adaptability and self-belief.
My overall advice is to keep showing up, as you never know who is watching or how your presence might inspire others. Embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth, and believe in yourself even when the path feels unclear. With time, effort, and a commitment to your journey, everything will eventually fall into place. Your story is unfolding, and every step you take is an important part of it.
Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
The number one obstacle I’m currently facing is learning to set boundaries as an entrepreneur. It’s easy to feel like I always have to be doing something to feel productive, as this constant pressure to stay busy, meet every demand and push forward at all times can become a big much. However, I’m realizing that resting is just as productive as being in constant motion and knowing your value is so important.
To overcome this challenge, I’ve been actively working on redefining my understanding of productivity. I’ve started to implement specific time blocks for work and dedicated periods for rest and self-care. It has been a journey to shift my mindset, but I’m learning that taking breaks not only rejuvenates my energy but also enhances my creativity. By establishing these boundaries, I’m finding a healthier balance that allows me to be more focused and engaged in my work while also prioritizing my well-being.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dearbodydiary.co
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/linimel_
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kalinivel-melo/
Image Credits
@sonessasary.creative
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