How a young student made design easy for everyone

Melanie Perkins, born on January 1, 1987, in Perth, Australia, has emerged as a prominent figure in the tech industry and a true role model for women worldwide. Her journey from a small idea to the co-founder and CEO of Canva, a graphic design platform valued at billions of dollars, is a testament to her resilience, innovation, and dedication.

Perkins’ early years were marked by an entrepreneurial spirit and a thirst for knowledge. She attended the University of Western Australia, where she studied communications and commerce, laying the foundation for her future endeavors. It was during her time at university that she recognized the need for a user-friendly graphic design tool that could be accessible to everyone, regardless of their design expertise.

In 2007, Melanie Perkins and her co-founder, Cliff Obrecht, embarked on their entrepreneurial journey by launching their first venture, “Fusion Books.” This online platform allowed users to create and design their yearbooks. While Fusion Books was a modest start, it provided valuable insights and experience that would later prove crucial in the development of Canva.

The turning point in Melanie Perkins’ career came when she co-founded Canva in 2013. Canva’s mission was simple yet ambitious: to empower people, irrespective of their design skills, to create stunning visuals effortlessly. Canva’s user-friendly interface, a wide array of templates, and an extensive library of design elements struck a chord with users worldwide.

Under Melanie Perkins’ leadership, Canva experienced remarkable growth. The platform quickly gained popularity among individuals, businesses, and educators, becoming an indispensable tool for graphic design and visual communication. Canva’s user base expanded exponentially, with millions of users creating billions of designs.

Melanie Perkins’ vision extended beyond just building a successful company. She became an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry, championing the cause of women in technology. Her journey from a university student with a big idea to a female CEO leading a tech unicorn inspired many women to pursue careers in technology and entrepreneurship.

In 2021, Canva achieved the coveted status of a “unicorn” company, reaching a valuation of over $15 billion. This remarkable achievement made Melanie Perkins one of the most successful female tech entrepreneurs globally and demonstrated that women can excel in the traditionally male-dominated tech sector.

Melanie Perkins’ impact extends beyond the tech industry. She serves as a role model for women from all walks of life, showcasing that with determination, innovation, and a commitment to one’s vision, one can shatter glass ceilings and achieve extraordinary success. Her story resonates with aspiring female entrepreneurs and leaders, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and make a mark in their respective fields.

Today, Melanie Perkins’ legacy is not only the success of Canva but also the inspiration she provides to countless women aspiring to break barriers and lead in the tech world. Her journey serves as a reminder that gender should never be a barrier to achieving greatness and that the tech industry is richer when it embraces diversity and inclusion.

In summary, Melanie Perkins’ history is a testament to her remarkable journey from a university student with a vision to a tech industry trailblazer. Her role as the co-founder and CEO of Canva, coupled with her advocacy for women in tech, positions her as a true role model and inspiration for women worldwide. Her achievements and commitment to diversity continue to shape the future of the tech industry and empower women to reach for the stars.