CCLinspire Feature of Melanie Eke of the American reality show "The Battle of the Ex-besties"

Melanie Eke from the American reality show “The Battle of the Ex-besties”

Inspiration comes in different forms and often from those who are not in your reach. I have been observing Melanie Eke since discovering her on IG and her journey often reminds me of my own although hers being light years ahead of me. I use her as my measure of how pursuit of happiness through passion can often if not always bring forth endless streams of success and through that positively inspiring others that impossible does not exist in those who chose to themselves as great for their drive and purpose is by their need to make all things possible no matter the hurdles. So it is nothing but a true pleasure to share her story and inspire you all in the process…Do Enjoy and share with others alike.

I first discovered you through your IG page @ActionTipOfTheWeek and also @peopleushouldknow whereby you share motivational stories of people making a difference and this resonated with me because that’s what I do with this blog and all things that I do. How did the idea come about?

The idea for ‘People U Should Know’ came about because I noticed that in our society we tend to praise and recognize people when they reach a level of "celebrity" status.  However, public figures are not the only successful people.  So I was inspired to tell the stories of people positively impacting their industries and communities that we may not already know about to make the point that success comes in various forms, and to inspire, motivate, and empower others to become someone that the world should know about as well!  ‘Action Tip of the Week’ came from a desire to provide people with the tools necessary to reach their desired level of success.  The idea is that through the ‘People U Should Know’ brand, young professionals are connected with the people, resources, and insight they need to reach their full potential!   

Your journey in the media world began to propel when you were cast member for the Oxygen TV show “The Battle of the Ex-besties”. How did the opportunity come about? Are there any regrets?

My history with appearing on TV shows is an interesting one.  About Five years ago, I randomly stumbled upon an application for a dating show on FOX called "The Choice," where we had an opportunity to potentially date a celebrity.  I completed the application for fun, and to my surprise, made it all the way through the process of being casted on the show. Since then, I've been contacted periodically about doing various TV Shows, so the opportunity for "The Battle of the Ex-Besties" came when a casting director that had auditioned me for a previous show called me and asked me if I was interested in the opportunity.  At the time it sounded like a harmless competition show so I figured I'd see what happens.  However, it wasn't until after I was casted, and had begun filming that I learned the real concept of the show.  I'm not sure that I would have gone through with it if I had known I was being paired with my Ex-Bestfriend, but looking back, it was an exciting and memorable experience and I don't regret a minute of it.  

Scene from the American reality show “The Battle of the Ex-besties”

What opportunities have opened up as a direct result of being part of the show?

Being a part of the show actually opened a door that I didn't see developing.  I realized that due to all of the images of failed friendships viewers witness from the show, there needed to be a positive light shined on friendship, and the importance of maintaining healthy friendships.  So I then developed an initiative called "Friendship Values" which utilizes both social media and physical workshops to encourage girls to define what's important to them in a friendship, and to revisit their values on a regular basis.  The workshops are designed for high school girls, but I also facilitate it for middle school and college students as well.  As for the social media side, I utilize Instagram (@MyFriendshipValues) to encourage girls and young ladies to post a photo with their best friend and share what's most important to them in a friendship using #MyFriendshipValues.  I then repost the photos on the @MyFriendshipValues page in hopes of creating a positive portrayal of the value of friendship.   

You have had moments where you have met various stars and interviewed them to. Recently you got to interview cast members like Kelly Rowland from the film Love By The 10^th Date. What to date are the most memorable moments that remind you, that you’re on the right path?

I'm most reminded that I'm on the right path in moments of recognition.  I remember when I was Co-Hosting one particular show for the ‘Generation U’ radio show. Someone who had accompanied one of the guests for the day pulled me aside and said to me "You're a natural.  Keep doing what you're doing."  Every time I finish a project and someone says words like that to me, it makes it real for me that others believe in me as well.  Of course, it is vital to first believe in yourself, but knowing that others notice your talents as well makes your goals feel even more attainable.  

Seen here interviewing Kelly Rowland about her role in the movie "Love By The 10th Date"

So you have recently made an announcement that you will have a new series called “People U Should Know”. What will the show be about and when should we expect it to air? Also for those not in America where can they watch it?  

The basis of it is about taking an in-depth look at the Road to Success through the stories of successful people.  The show takes the overall ‘People U Should Know’ brand to the next level, as we get to hear advice directly from the mouths of the people I feature on the blog.  The show will air on the digital network VertroLive (VertroLive.com), which is available on Apple TV, ROKU TV, and online via FilmOn TV.  

You consistently brand yourself as a motivational influencer for everything you do surrounds that aspect. Is this intentional or is it what you feel you were called to do? Like it is your purpose.

Growing up I was at the crossroad of pursuing passion versus stability when choosing a career path.  After struggling with whether or not I should choose the "traditional" route and play it safe, I decided to go with passion.  At the time I didn't realize it, but that personal journey was laying the foundation for my calling in life, and I've accepted it.  Now my mission is to inspire, motivate, and empower people from all walks of life to achieve fulfilment in everything they do.  I focus heavily on the Road to Success, but even success is most fulfilling when we feel complete in all aspects of life.  

There may be some readers who will read this and are interested in a media career. What advice would you give them?

Pursuing a career in this industry is no easy feat!  So first, decide for sure that this is what you want.  Once you've decided that, set specific goals and work towards them consistently driven by purpose, passion, and action. 

So what are we to expect from Melanie Eke this 2017?

I'm very excited about this year, because I have so much to look forward to!  As I mentioned, I will be launching "People U Should Know the show."  I will also be focusing on doing more motivational writing and events.  Just expect to see a lot more of me!  

Finally life comes with its challenges, kindly share with the CCL readers what motivational quote or motto you live by that keeps you motivated?

Anything is possible when you're living in your purpose, guided by your passion, and pursuing what's meant for you with action!

Melanie reminds us that we may get on paths that often look like they have no play in your future but often than not they hold the very key needed to have the future you often foresee for yourself. She also reminds to question whether in what we do we bringing up people along the way, in the sense of mentoring others of the same path perhaps. For in helping others rise you also rise too and often faster. Always remember that someone looks at you and sees you as a role model so its important to act responsibly too and be a role model worth admiring and even emulating.

This is what Melanie has come to mean to me and if you want to continue to see what else she do follow her in the various social media pages.

Twitter, IG, Facebook- @MelanieCEke

Thanks for reading and may this be the matchstick that lights up the fire in you.

If you would like to share your story or recommend someone, kindly email crazycoollush@gmail.com

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