Navigating Life with Runway Radiance: Melissa Mangili's Journey
In a world where stories often unfold in unexpected ways, Melissa Mangili's life journey stands out as a testament to resilience, empathy, and the pursuit of passion. From growing up in a small town to establishing a successful career in neuropsychology and later making a splash in the fashion industry, Melissa's story is a captivating tapestry of diverse experiences. In this interview, she candidly shares insights into her family, career choices, challenges faced, and her perspective on life.
Family Ties:
Melissa's roots in Gardner, Maine, shaped her character profoundly. Raised in a resourceful family with three siblings, Melissa developed a strong sense of empathy early on. Her mother's paralysis at the age of 29 served as a pivotal point, influencing her perspective on life. Despite challenges, the Mangili family was close, instilling in Melissa the resilience that would become a hallmark of her journey.
Career Evolution:
Melissa's professional journey began with a focus on neuropsychology, culminating in her role as a Post Doctoral Fellow at Brown. However, her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Brain Works RI in 2009, a practice specializing in outpatient brain injuries. As the years progressed, Melissa ventured into consulting, navigating the challenges of a changing work landscape, especially during the pandemic. Surprisingly, 2020 marked her foray into the world of fashion, with a successful modeling career that challenged industry norms, as less than 1% of runway models are over 50.
Overcoming Challenges:
Life wasn't always a runway for Melissa. Living 3000 miles away from family for five years and enduring the rigors of grad school presented significant challenges. Yet, she not only survived but thrived. The sacrifices made for her career were accompanied by a sense of constant duty towards her family. Melissa's ability to turn challenges into stepping stones reflects her resilience and determination to
Perspective on Life:
Melissa's perspective on life has undergone a transformative shift. She has gone from living under the overwhelming pressures of societal norms, to breathing easier today as she recognizes they are but arbitrary. She has realized ”…the rules that we follow [are] made up! And I can make my own rules now!"
Words of Wisdom:
If Melissa could advise her younger self, it would be to provide more encouragement and reassurance that everything would be okay. Her journey has taught her the value of self-belief and the importance of overcoming obstacles with grace and determination.
Joy in Relationships:
For Melissa, joy emanates from her relationships – her husband, family, and witnessing their well-being. In the midst of a dynamic career and multifaceted life, the grounding force of love and connection brings her the greatest joy.
A Positive Outlook for the Future:
Melissa hopes for a world where the progress made by women isn't undone. She envisions a future where women won't have to fight as hard and emphasizes the importance of not sidelining women from the economy, recognizing it as an unsound policy decision.
Melissa Mangili's story is an inspiring narrative of embracing the challenges that come with life, pursuing passion, and rewriting the rules. Her journey serves as an inspiration to anyone seeking to carve their own paths, challenge societal norms, and find joy in the intricate tapestry of life.
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