Melissa Cacho believes real change happens when people have both the skills to lead and the power to shape the systems around them. She founded Mend to bring those two things together, blending leadership and workforce development with the creativity and authenticity of hip hop and street art culture.

Melissa's roots are in advocacy. As a Chapter Coordinator at Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice, she coordinated policy campaigns and community outreach aimed at breaking down systemic barriers. Today she serves as a CEO at Jacob Merlin Foundation, where she focuses on organizational design, team coaching, and stakeholder influence.

She holds a BA in Organizational Leadership and is a Certified Associate Project Management, and brings deep experience in program development, grant writing, and building partnerships. Through Mend, Melissa works with individuals, communities, and businesses seeking cultural competency training, helping each of them grow in ways that feel true to who they are.