Canu SOI - Redacted — File 25-1089

February 28, 2025 Steven Flythe Deputy Director, Department of Racial and Social Justice, City of Somerville 167 Holland St., Suite 208 Somerville, MA 02144 sflythe@somervillema.gov Dear Mr. Flythe, As a Somerville resident with experience in—and a commitment to—women’s rights advocacy and services, I am pleased to submit my application for the Somerville Commission for Women. Women’s Commissions are critical to advancing women’s rights and representation in the public sector—I first internalized this as an intern at the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women more than a decade ago. Since then, I have been fortunate to build a career in corporate and advocacy spaces that underscores that targeted, community-directed investments in women benefit everyone. My career has always centered around women and families, from equitable employment to public benefits to health and rights. In my current role, I work with government and commercial clients to develop, implement, and promote workforce and social programs that encourage skill building, economic empowerment, and self-sufficiency. Previously, I managed all strategic communications at a nongovernmental organization that promoted the sexual and reproductive health and rights of women around the world. I am deeply passionate about promoting the wellbeing and empowerment of women, and am hopeful to leverage my skills and passion to amplify the needs and rights of women in Somerville, and create solutions to address them. As a Massachusetts native, I am eager to become more involved in my local community and believe my experiences and values are well-aligned with the Commission and its work. I enjoy forging relationships and generating enthusiasm in my community about important (and fun!) causes, and am adept at partnership outreach and coalition building, as well as event planning and management. I hope to meet and learn from others who are equally committed to promoting, understanding, and safeguarding the wide-ranging needs of Somerville women. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Melissa Canu [email removed] [phone removed] 20 Fairfax St., Unit 1 Somerville, MA 02144