Week 28: Meliza Hernandez
Media Correspondent

Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a woman who wears many different hats simply because there is so much that I am interested in. When it comes to sports, you could say the same. I was a part of the basketball, track & field, cross country, volleyball, soccer, and softball team and also played other sports recreationally. Having many interests can seem daunting but it allows me to pursue everything I want to do in life! I have a passion for helping others so I am constantly finding ways to promote positivity and ensuring everyone finds greatness within themselves. My mission in life is to inspire everyone out there so they can be the best they can be.

When it comes to my career, my interests are so widespread they fall under numerous categories: music, entertainment, food, health, media and of course, sports. I currently freelance as a media correspondent where I manage social media and report for leagues and events such as the Canadian Youth Basketball League and On Point Basketball. I own a baking business (@sweetbitsto) making every occasion sweeter with sweet bits of dessert! I founded an organization (@duo.organization) that works to change the world for the better by donating to causes; and even curating events such as a Vision Board Workshop that I hosted in March for Women’s Month. I also work at Nike as a Customer Service Lead & Community Ambassador. My job allows me to specialize in providing an extra service for employees, customers and media groups. I connect with organizations such as Boys & Girls Clubs, Toronto Community Housing, etc. to plan and facilitate sessions that promote a healthy, active, lifestyle for youth. Hobbies include blogging, fitness, singing, “DJ-ing” and does eating count? (@melizaeats) I am constantly working on new projects and developing ideas that will provide inspiration for many. Find out more about what I do on melizahernandez.com!

How has sport helped you develop skills for your work today?

Having multiple jobs can be difficult but sport has helped me with balance, personal interaction and time management. When you play a sport at school for example, you have to prioritize homework, practice and health. Similar to work today, I have to prioritize my tasks and schedule my work accordingly. Balancing numerous jobs can lead to sleep deprivation, lack of self-care, and simply become so unhealthy. I’ve learned to manage my time wisely and communicate professionally to ensure that I am always on top of everything I do.

Who is a leader you admire and why?

A leader I admire would be Oprah Winfrey. Known for her virtuous personality and philanthropic values, I look up to her and set my goals in relation with her path. She went through many hardships, hustled her way through, and got to where she is now. Similar to myself and many others, I have been through a lot of hardships and now I am hustling my way through to change the world. I would also like to mention Kobe Bryant as a leader in the game of basketball. He played with passion, perseverance and a “Mamba Mentality.” When faced with the toughest battles in life, you need to channel that inner “killer mentality” and push yourself to your limits.

What is one piece of advice would you have for young female athletes who would like to pursue a career?

Focus on your end goal, be your true self, and try new things. If you want to become a professional athlete, you need to work for it and stand out from the rest. If this route doesn’t work out, it doesn’t mean you can’t be involved with a sport-related career. I was good at sports but I knew I wasn’t the best so I found my way through other talents of mine such as media. I have a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Degree in Arts & Contemporary Studies with a Minor in Human Resources Management. I was supposed to be a teacher. Although that is still something I can do, other opportunities came my way, and I am applying my skills towards everything else I do in life. People always think I went to school for media, culinary or entertainment, but I gained those skills out of life experiences!

Social Media Handle: @melizahernandez