Melissa Baba, formerly known as Melissa Mensah, the winner of Miss Malaika 2004, has recently graduated with a PhD in Informatics and System Science from the University of Reading.

Many may remember Melissa as the captivating Miss Malaika Ghana winner in 2004, but her story goes beyond the stage. Melissa has successfully transitioned from the world of beauty pageants to become a leading advocate for financial inclusion and a prominent figure in the Ghanaian FinTech space.

Melissa's passion for learning and her dedication to service were evident even during her time as a beauty queen. After impressing audiences with her beauty and intelligence, she began a successful career in the Ghanaian banking sector. This success led her to explore opportunities in the UK, where she currently resides and excels in her chosen field.

In addition to her professional achievements, Melissa is a vocal advocate for financial inclusion and digital finance. Her doctoral research at Henley Business School focused on Ghana’s Financial Technology Industry. With over 12 years of experience in payment systems, Melissa has made significant contributions to the Ghanaian FinTech landscape through her work on innovative projects in branchless banking and mobile money interoperability.

Melissa's story is truly inspiring, showcasing the power of resilience, continuous learning, and a commitment to making a positive impact. Her journey from beauty queen to FinTech leader highlights the fact that women can accomplish anything when they put their hearts into it.