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Melissa is a National Scholar of the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans for exhibited determination, integrity, and perseverance in overcoming adversity.
Melissa is the
2023 Ohio Adult Educator of the Year
Ohio Department of Education
Melissa Calero Kleem
Teacher and Motivational Speaker for All Age Groups
When you book Melissa for a speaking engagement, you will hear her real-life story that will touch your heart. From growing up in the South Bronx, one of the toughest neighborhoods in America, to the unsolved murder of her mother when Melissa was only eight years old. The account of her life includes something for everyone: substance abuse, homelessness, domestic violence, divorce, attempted suicide, pregnancy difficulties, dramatic court battles, financial hardships, broken families, and broken dreams. However, her saga ultimately includes lessons of hope, empowerment, and overcoming the odds. Be prepared for something more than an account of Melissa's life; embrace yourself for an inspiring journey of triumph over tragedy, of being a victor and not a victim, and of living life without excuses.
BE INSPIRED TO LIVE WITHOUT EXCUSES
"As a teacher, our education system often encourages our young people to live with self-pity, to have the mindset that they are owed something in life; in other words, a sense of entitlement. I often encounter students who think they can't succeed because someone or something is holding them back. That is why my message is one of no excuses; my goal is to help people stop the blame game of blaming their setbacks and difficulties on others or life's circumstances. I promote something I call the O.N.E. Life Principle. The O stands for Own, the N stands for No, and the E stands for Excuses. Therefore, the O.N.E. Life Principle means you have one life to live, so
Own No Excuses!"
-Melissa Calero Kleem
(Pictured Above: Naranjito, Puerto Rico)
Learn more about Melissa's life, from her childhood in The South Bronx, to her relocation to Puerto Rico, to her current life in Ohio.
(Pictured Above: The South Bronx)
Melissa was raised in New York City and Puerto Rico. She is fully bilingual in English and Spanish and her presentation can be given in either language.
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