Melanie Zhang
Amplifying voices to spark change. Building bridges to foster understanding.
About Me
My name is Melanie Zhang, and I am a student, writer, and
community-driven leader.
Through leadership roles in Model UN, community engagement,
and long-term projects like interning at the Honolulu City Council
and self-publishing my debut book, I strive to connect people and
ideas that matter.
Beyond academics, I run cross country and track, play violin, and
love cooking. I speak multiple languages and have participated in
global volunteer service, experiences that continue to shape how I
see the world and the kind of impact I hope to make.
At the heart of everything I do is a desire to learn deeply, lead thoughtfully, and act with purpose.
Education
ʻIolani School, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi
Projects
From publishing to research to personal challenges, these projects represent my
commitment to learning, growing, and making a meaningful impact.
Debut Book – Coming Soon
This project features candid interviews with entrepreneurs,
executives, and community changemakers across industries. Some
interviewees include: CEO of Panda Express- Andrew Cherng,
Top Chef Alumni
and chef- Tu David Phu and the first Caribbean woman to go to space- Keisha Schahaff.
Honolulu Youth Commissioner
Nominated by Council Member Tupola to represent District 1, working under Hawaii’s Mayor.
Gobi Desert Race – Summer 2025
The summer of 2025, I participated in the Gobi Desert Race, a 108KM ultramarathon carrying all my gear, navigating extreme terrain, and pushing my physical and mental limits over 3 days. For me, this challenge is an experience of self-discipline and global connection.
Extracurriculars
Model United Nations
I found one of my biggest passions through Model United Nations a year ago. I’m currently an officer in ‘Iolani’s Model UN program and have competed in both local and international conferences.
Classical Violinist | Concertmaster Roles & Orchestral Honors
- Concertmaster, San Diego Youth Symphony (2021–2022)
- Concertmaster, Summerfield Waldorf School Orchestra
- Violinist, Santa Rosa Symphony Youth Orchestra
- Violinist, Young People’s Chamber Orchestra
- Featured performer at TEDx Sonoma County
Club Founder | Time Management & Productivity
Co-founding the Time Management and Productivity Club at ‘Iolani School with my brother, our goal is to help students take control of their schedules and build habits that actually stick. What started as a simple idea—sharing tools like the Pomodoro Technique and priority mapping—has grown into a space where we trade tips, try out strategies together, and learn how to balance academics, extracurriculars, and life without burning out.
Sports
JV Athlete
Sprinter and long-distance runner.
Golfer
5 year Competitive JO Swimmer
🎵
Musical Performance
Listen to String Symphony No. 10 in B minor – Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy
Awards & Recognition
- Best Delegate, ʻIolani MUNC Delegation of Russia
- Outstanding Delegate, PACMUN Delegation of South Africa
- Honorable Mention, Le Jardin MUN Delegation of Canada
- Top Ten Finalist, Hawai‘i Letter to My Parents Contest
- Presidential Volunteer Service Award Honored for 275.5 hours of dedication and impact around the globe (U.S, Indonesia, China)
- Bronze Award, French Grand Concours Earned for high performance in a national French language competition.
Contact Me
Email me with questions! I would love to connect and discuss
opportunities, collaborations, or just have a meaningful conversation.