Dr. Meleeka Clary’s life is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, into a large blended family, Meleeka faced numerous challenges throughout her life. Her journey from a turbulent childhood to becoming a scholar, single mother, real estate investor, and actress showcases her unwavering determination to rise above adversity.
Early Life: A Childhood of Struggles and Strength
Meleeka Clary was born to Andrew Lee Clary, Sr., an entrepreneur, and Larriana Clary, a model, in Mattapan, MA. Of Black, Cherokee Indian, and Portuguese descent, Meleeka grew up in a large family as the sixth of eight children. Life at home was not always easy—her father battled substance abuse while striving to make a living, and her mother’s devotion to him eventually led to her suffering from depression. Despite the hardships, both parents were pivotal in nurturing Meleeka’s creativity and independence. By age eight, she was already displaying a natural talent for the arts, attending Vicki’s School of Dancing and Acting. Her passion for performing blossomed when she was cast as Harriet Tubman in a school play at age 13, and she excelled in various roles, including nonverbal drama performances.
Teenage Struggles and Early Independence
As her parents’ health worsened, Meleeka faced a new reality. Her older brother stepped in to help raise her during her high school years, but Meleeka soon found herself on her own. At the age of 17, she moved out, dropping out of Brighton High School to work and support herself. At 18, her father passed away, and Meleeka took on the responsibility of caring for her mother, who was diagnosed with depression.
Realizing the importance of education, she re-enrolled in night school at Madison High School in Roxbury, MA, and graduated at the age of 20 while holding down multiple jobs. Her determination to better herself despite the odds was already evident.
Finding Stability: Real Estate and Higher Education
By the age of 21, Meleeka Clary was a homeowner and real estate investor. She continued to build her future while keeping her passion for acting and dancing alive, but ultimately stepped away from the entertainment industry due to sexual harassment threats.
Focusing on a new path, Meleeka pursued higher education. She earned an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice from Newbury College, followed by both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Curry College. She later obtained a paralegal degree from Northeastern University.
Her early 20s were filled with a balancing act between academics, caring for her children, and managing a demanding work life. During this time, she gave birth to two daughters, all while caring for her mother.
Marriage, Health Struggles, and a Turning Point
In her mid-20s, Meleeka moved to Indiana, got married, and enrolled in Concord Law School. However, the lack of marital support during her studies resulted in academic setbacks, and she was placed on academic probation. After becoming pregnant with her third child, she faced a series of health complications that led to multiple surgeries, including congestive heart failure. Despite these hardships, her son was born healthy.
Meleeka’s marriage eventually ended in divorce, leaving her a single mother of three children and caregiver for her mother. Despite the emotional and physical toll, Meleeka remained determined to rise again.
A New Chapter: Psychology, Acting, and Fulfillment
After her divorce, Meleeka realized the importance of understanding mental health, both for herself and for others. She decided to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology at Walden University, a path that has brought her great fulfillment.
Alongside her academic pursuits, Meleeka has returned to her love for acting and modeling, with several projects now in development. Her return to the entertainment industry signals a new chapter of creativity and personal growth, fueled by her life experiences.
