A native to Miami, Florida, Melissa Medina Jiménez is currently President of eMerge Americas, the premier technology event of the Americas. In May 2014, Melissa helped launch the inaugural eMerge Americas, an annual, large-scale global technology conference held in Miami, Florida which provides a platform for the advancement of technology, the sharing of ideas, and a launch pad for innovation while connecting Latin America with the rest of the World. The mission of eMerge Americas is to serve as a catalyst for establishing Miami as the tech hub of the Americas in order to propel innovation and investment in South Florida & Latin America. With Melissa’s leadership, eMerge Americas now brings together 16,000+ entrepreneurs, investors, tech enthusiasts and business executives from all over the world in a movement to connect the Americas through innovation & technology.
Subsequent to the 2014 inaugural conference, Melissa assisted in the launch of the Women, Innovation & Technology summit (WIT), which seeks to convene top female professionals from across the globe to showcase how they are transforming industries through technology & innovation.
Melissa is also the President of the Medina Family Foundation (MFF). As President of the foundation, Melissa defined the foundation’s mission as funding local initiatives that focus on mentoring children and empowering families by enhancing education and quality of life. The MFF actively supports various organizations including: Roots of Hope, SEED School of Miami, FIU Aquarius, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, Women of Tomorrow, Informed Families, Voices For Children, Camillus House, Shake-A-Leg, Guitars Over Guns, The United Way, among many others. The funding provided to these organizations, along with Melissa’s personal involvement in each of the organizations, has allowed these non-profits to continue their missions and ultimately, create a brighter future for the City of Miami.
Melissa attended the University of FL and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration & a Master’s in International Business. Additionally, as part of her Master’s program, Melissa attended ESADE in Barcelona, Spain - one of the top global universities in business management.
Subsequent to her Master’s program, Melissa worked at Terremark Worldwide, a leading operator of integrated network access points. Beginning her career as a Research Assistant in the Development Department, Medina worked her way up as an Account Manager & Financial Analyst, analyzing company revenues and implementing audit systems.
Melissa has been honored with the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce “Difference Maker” HYPE Award, as well as recognized as a “Pace-Setting Woman in Miami” by the State of Florida for her commitment to her city. Furthermore, the Junior League of Miami recognized Melissa as a “Woman Who Makes A Difference.” Melissa was also named one of the six most influential women in philanthropy by Ocean Drive Magazine. Most recently, Melissa was awarded the “2018 Community Catalyst” award by Catalyst Miami organization. Melissa also sits on the Board of Endeavor Miami, The United Way of Miami, Babson WIN Lab, and Roots of Hope. Melissa is passionate about transforming Miami into a technology hub for the Americas and supporting Miami-based non-profits who seek to empower tomorrow's leaders. Most importantly, Melissa is a mother and most passionate about her 5 children - Sebastian (12), Eva (10), Ellie (10), Nicolas (8), and Inés Emilia (3).
