Boston-born powerhouse, Dr. Meleeka Clary, is more than just a name — she’s a story of resilience, reinvention, and relentless determination. From a turbulent childhood to earning multiple academic degrees and returning to her creative roots, Meleeka’s journey is a testament to grit, grace, and unshakable purpose.
Early Life in Mattapan: A Mixed Heritage and Complex Childhood
Meleeka Clary was born in Boston, Massachusetts, to Andrew Lee Clary, Sr., an entrepreneur with big dreams, and Larriana Clary, a soft-spoken Christian woman and former model. Of Black, Cherokee Indian, and Portuguese descent, Meleeka grew up in Mattapan as the sixth of eight children in a blended family.
Her upbringing was anything but easy. With a father navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship while battling substance abuse, and a mother suffering from depression, Meleeka witnessed firsthand the struggles of love, survival, and family dynamics. Despite the chaos, both parents recognized and nurtured her creativity early on.
The Birth of a Performer: Dance and Drama as a Lifeline
At age eight, Meleeka was enrolled in Vicki’s School of Dancing and Acting, where she studied ballet, tap, and jazz. Her love for performing blossomed, and by thirteen, she had already landed her first major acting role — portraying Harriet Tubman in her middle school play. Her instructors also saw her shine in nonverbal drama, laying the foundation for her future in the arts.
Early Independence and Tragedy
Life forced Meleeka to grow up quickly. After her father’s death from a bleeding ulcer when she was just 18, and her mother’s worsening depression, Meleeka became both caretaker and breadwinner. She dropped out of high school, moved out at 17, and hustled to survive. Yet, she never gave up on her education. She re-enrolled at Madison High School in Roxbury and earned her diploma at 20 — fulfilling her father’s dream and her personal promise.
Climbing the Ladder: Education, Motherhood, and Business
Driven by ambition and the desire to create a better life, Meleeka didn’t stop after high school. She earned an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice from Newbury College, followed by both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Criminal Justice from Curry College. She also received a paralegal certification from Northeastern University — all while raising two daughters, working three jobs, and caring for her mother.
By 21, she had purchased her first home as a real estate investor. Meleeka was living proof that anything is possible with focus and resilience.
Setbacks and Comebacks: Law School, Divorce, and Health Battles
Meleeka’s academic journey led her to Concord Law School. Though she completed a year, personal challenges — including a lack of support in her marriage and a high-risk pregnancy — resulted in academic probation. Her health suffered, requiring multiple surgeries and leading to a divorce just 1.5 years after the birth of her son.
Now a single mother of three, she once again pivoted. Realizing the importance of mental health, she began studying Clinical Psychology and is currently pursuing her PhD at Walden University.
A Triumphant Return: Acting, Modeling, and Mental Health Advocacy
With her children growing and her life stabilizing, Dr. Meleeka Clary has reignited her passion for the arts. She’s now actively working on film and modeling projects while using her platform to advocate for mental health and women’s empowerment.
Her autobiographical film Three Corners of Deception (2020) brought her story to the screen and raised awareness about emotional manipulation, resilience, and personal transformation.
The Legacy of Dr. Meleeka Clary
Dr. Meleeka Clary’s life is a beautiful tapestry woven with hardship, hope, and healing. She is not just a mother, scholar, or actress — she is a living symbol of perseverance. Her story reminds us that no matter how tough life gets, the power to rewrite your destiny lies within.
