Going the Distance: How Mentorship Helped Melina Pursue Her New York Dreams

See Melina and Kamila’s mentorship journey on page 9 in the 2026 Impact Report: https://thinkbigforkids.org/annual-reports/impact-reports/

When Melina was paired with Kamila Khasanova, Founder and CEO of On Top Strategy, through Think Big for Kids in 2022, their connection grew into something far beyond traditional mentorship. What began with career guidance became a lasting relationship that helped Melina build the confidence and skills to pursue her dream of living and studying in New York City.

A Mentorship Built on Trust

For Melina’s mom, Jan, knowing her daughter had someone she could trust was especially meaningful as Melina prepared to take that next step.

“If the definition of a mentor is a trusted guide, that was probably the most impactful part,” Jan shared. “She was with someone we could trust and knew Melina would be comfortable with.”

Turning Dreams into Action

From the beginning, Kamila encouraged Melina to think about her future and take practical steps toward her goals. They worked on building a resume and cover letter, practiced mock interviews, and discussed career opportunities and scholarship applications. Kamila also supported Melina at her senior-year fashion show, celebrating her creativity and ambitions.

Their relationship took on a new dimension when Kamila moved to New York City. She invited Melina to visit, giving her the opportunity to explore the city and experience what life there could look like. Together, they visited restaurants, museums, and parks, and Kamila even accompanied Melina to view an apartment, offering guidance as she considered the realities of living independently.

For Melina, these experiences offered more than professional preparation. They provided a trusted person to turn to while navigating a major life transition.

A New York Dream Becomes Reality

After graduating from cosmetology school in Florida, Melina made her dream a reality. At 18, she moved to New York on her own, secured an apartment in Queens, and began working as an assistant at a Brooklyn salon. She also enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Technology to study Fashion Business Management, bringing her closer to her long-standing goal of building a future in fashion.

Melina’s ambitions extend beyond the classroom. She hopes to open her own boutique and establish an artist co-op, continuing to combine her creativity with her entrepreneurial spirit.

Kamila remains one of her biggest supporters, and the two continue to spend time together in New York.

“Melina is one of the brightest and most interesting people I have ever met,” Kamila shared. “I am so proud of her, being brave enough to pursue her big dream.”

Their story is a reminder that mentorship can reach far beyond career advice. With encouragement, practical guidance, and a trusted person in their corner, young people can find the confidence to take meaningful steps toward the futures they imagine.

At Think Big for Kids, mentorship helps make those possibilities feel within reach.