Melissa Falconer is a self-taught visual artist from Toronto who grew up believing that a corporate career was the only path to success. However, while studying Economics at university, she suffered from depression and turned to painting for solace. After gaining recognition for her art within her community and online, Melissa was inspired to encourage others to pursue their passions despite societal expectations. Her pop art paintings inspired by Black culture aim to empower people to feel represented, hopeful, confident, and loved. Her journey illustrates the power of pursuing one’s dreams and the positive impact that creativity can have on mental health.