In life, we are often faced with choices, each defining the path we walk. For Melika Razavi, the choice was very clear from an early age: to be a victor, not a victim. Her journey is a remarkable testament to resilience, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in herself despite overwhelming odds. Born in a country where opportunities for women are limited, especially in unconventional fields like poker and modeling, Melika has risen to international prominence as a poker champion, model, businesswoman, and philanthropist. Her story is nothing short of extraordinary.

Breaking Barriers in Iran
Melika was born in Iran, a country where societal norms often impose restrictions on women. As a young girl, she dreamed of doing things that, in her society, were considered unconventional—playing poker, pursuing modeling, and exploring her own definition of success. However, in a place where opportunities for women were limited, the challenges she faced were monumental.

Growing up in a conservative environment, Melika had to navigate cultural restrictions, family expectations, and societal pressures. Activities we call normal—such as playing music in public, singing, dancing, cycling, or modeling—are illegal for women in Iran. Additionally, gambling is forbidden under Iranian law. Guided by her mother, Aida Coertse, Melika made the brave choice to refuse an arranged marriage at the age of fifteen, a decision that marked the first of many pivotal moments in her life. 

Five years prior, her mother had escaped Iran to pave a way for Melika's freedom. After five painful years of separation, Aida returned to rescue her daughter from child marriage, successfully bringing her to South Africa in 2004. This marked Melika’s first step toward freedom, far outside the confines of tradition, where she was finally able to pursue her dreams.

The Poker Player: Navigating a Male-Dominated World
Poker is a game of skill, patience, calculation, and intuition—a combination that Melika quickly mastered. However, the world of poker is largely male-dominated, and women players often face additional scrutiny and challenges. As an Iranian woman, the journey was even more difficult. Melika was not just competing at the tables but also battling the stereotypes and stigma that often come with being a woman in such a competitive field.

In poker, as in life, Melika made a decision: she would be a victor, not a victim. She worked tirelessly to hone her skills, learning to read the game, study her opponents, and cultivate the mental toughness needed to succeed. Her determination paid off, as she gained international recognition, winning tournaments and earning the respect of her fellow professional poker players. Today, Melika is regarded as a poker celebrity, a title earned through her grit and perseverance.

The Model: Defying Expectations
In addition to her success as a poker player, Melika embarked on a career in modeling, an industry that often imposes its own set of challenges. From body image pressures to fierce competition, modeling requires thick skin and confidence. However, for Melika, modeling was not just about beauty or glamour—it was a form of expression, a way to communicate strength and independence.

Her dedication to fitness and self-discipline led her to win prestigious titles such as Miss Global Fitness in 2016 and Miss Power Woman World in 2017. These achievements cemented her place not only as a model but as a symbol of strength, discipline, and empowerment. She continues to inspire women worldwide, showing that they can be strong, confident, beautiful, and intellectual, no matter where they come from.

Businesswoman and Philanthropist
Beyond poker and modeling, Melika is also a successful businesswoman. Through her ventures, she continues to break boundaries, proving that women can excel in traditionally male-dominated industries. Melika’s entrepreneurial journey reflects her commitment to excellence, as she strategically invests in various sectors, turning her passions into profitable enterprises.

Melika's philanthropic endeavors are equally impressive. Having experienced adversity firsthand, she is deeply committed to giving back, particularly to causes that empower women and children. Her charity work focuses on improving educational opportunities for young girls and supporting initiatives that provide them with the resources they need to pursue their dreams. Through her foundation, she has made significant contributions to communities in need, demonstrating that true success is not only measured by personal achievements but also by the impact one has on others.

The Struggles Along the Way 
No journey to success is free from struggles. Melika faced countless rejections, criticism, and skepticism from people who didn’t believe in her dreams. As a woman from Iran, she had to overcome both cultural and gender-based barriers, often feeling like she had to work twice as hard to prove herself in any industry she entered. But for Melika, every setback was an opportunity to grow, learn, and become stronger. Her belief in herself has been the cornerstone of her success. She sees every challenge as fuel to keep pushing forward towards victory.

A Global Inspiration
Today, Melika Razavi stands tall as a symbol of empowerment. Her achievements in poker, modeling, business, and philanthropy are proof that women can excel in any field they choose, even when society tries to hold them back. She has become an inspiration to women around the world, showing that no matter where you come from or what obstacles you face, you have the power to choose your destiny.

Her journey is a reminder to every woman and girl: you are not defined by your gender, color, race, religion, or circumstances. You can choose to be a victor, not a victim. Melika Razavi’s story is one of courage, focus, resilience, dedication, and the unwavering belief that you can create your own path to success—no matter where you start.

Choosing to Rise  
Melika Razavi’s story is a powerful reflection of a simple truth: success is not just about having a supportive family, talent, or luck, but about the choices we make every moment of every day. In the face of adversity, she chose to rise, to fight for her dreams, and to break the mold society tried to place her in.

Her message to women everywhere is clear: you have the power to define your future. Whether on the poker table, on stage, or in life—you are deserving and worthy, choose to be the victor.