Boston-born Dr. Meleeka Clary is a shining example of perseverance, talent, and transformation. As an actress, model, and PhD candidate in Clinical Psychology, her journey from hardship to healing is not only remarkable—it’s motivational. In this exclusive interview, she shares how she overcame adversity, balanced motherhood, pursued education, and returned to the entertainment industry with a renewed purpose.
Q: Dr. Clary, your life story is one of resilience. Can you tell us about your upbringing and how it shaped you?
Dr. Meleeka Clary:
I grew up in Mattapan, Massachusetts, in a big blended family—sixth out of eight kids. My father was a dreamer and businessman, but he struggled with addiction. My mother, a beautiful and reserved Christian woman, suffered from depression after enduring years of emotional turmoil. Watching both of them navigate life shaped my strength and independence early on. Despite challenges, they did their best and gave me the gift of resilience and faith.
Q: When did your interest in performing arts begin?
Dr. Clary:
I started dancing at age 8 at Vicki’s School of Dancing and Acting—tap, ballet, jazz. At 13, I was chosen to play Harriet Tubman in my middle school play, which really sparked something in me. I also participated in nonverbal drama performances and fell in love with storytelling through performance.
Q: You left high school young and returned later—what drove that decision?
Dr. Clary:
I had to grow up fast. At 17, I moved out on my own to work and survive. My father passed away from a bleeding ulcer when I was 18, and my mother, who was diagnosed with depression, came to live with me. Despite the odds, I remembered my father’s wish—that I graduate. I re-enrolled at Madison High School and earned my diploma while juggling several jobs. That was a defining moment.
Q: You became a homeowner at 21 and a real estate investor—how did that happen?
Dr. Clary:
I was determined to break the cycle. At 21, I bought my first home through sheer hustle and dedication. I wanted stability for myself and my family. Real estate became a stepping stone—financial independence was crucial to me.
Q: What inspired your return to education and eventual pivot to psychology?
Dr. Clary:
Education was always my anchor. I earned an associate’s degree from Newbury College, a bachelor’s and master’s from Curry College in Criminal Justice, and a paralegal certification from Northeastern. Later, after dealing with divorce and a complicated pregnancy, I realized how vital it is to understand mental health—not just for others, but for myself. That’s when I chose to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology at Walden University.
Q: You stepped away from entertainment but returned—what changed?
Dr. Clary:
I stepped away because of the toxic culture I experienced, including sexual harassment. But after rebuilding my life, I felt stronger and more secure. I’m now re-entering acting and modeling on my terms, with new projects like Three Corners of Deception—which is inspired by my own story. It’s empowering to reclaim that part of me.
Q: How do you balance being a single mother, student, and professional?
Dr. Clary:
It’s not easy. I’m a mother of three amazing children, still care for my mother, and am studying for my doctorate. Time management, faith, and my children’s love keep me grounded. I want to show them that no matter what life throws at you, you can rise.
Q: What’s your message to women facing similar hardships?
Dr. Clary:
Don’t give up on yourself. Even if the world tells you no, keep saying yes to your dreams. Education, faith, and self-love are your greatest tools. Life may test you, but those tests create the testimony.
What’s next for Dr. Meleeka Clary?
Dr. Clary is currently completing her PhD in Clinical Psychology, preparing to launch a mental health initiative focused on trauma and recovery, and developing new acting projects. Her life is a blueprint for turning pain into purpose.