ARNON MELO

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Entrepreneur, Community Organizer, Mentor

Toronto and Mississauga

Country of Origin: Brazil

 

Arnon Melo believes opportunity is everything. He came from Brazil, alone, over 30 years ago and worked survival jobs (like fast food, cleaning, and retail); but quickly realized the way to get ahead was a Canadian education. Supporting himself, he graduated with honours from Seneca College and now sits on their Professional Advisory Committee. After college he landed a role as a paid intern at a multinational shipping company.A decade later he established his own freight forwarding company MELLOHAWK Logistics, which today is an award-winning international shipping company with offices in Mississauga, Miami, Sao Paulo and sixty-five agent partners around the world. Arnon sits on the National board of the Canadian International Freight Forwarding Association (CIFFA) and is a regular mentor to Trade Accelerator programs, helping entrepreneurs at all levels grow and internationalize their companies and promote trade diversity, diversity and inclusion, and the Canadian Brand.
 

MELLOHAWK is a mini-united nations with all staff, but one, born outside Canada (India, Brazil, Vietnam, Philippines). MELLOHAWK is often the first career job for newcomers. As a former intern Arnon appreciates the value of creating opportunity and on-the-job training. MELLOHAWK Logistics has won awards from Mississauga Board of Trade, Access Employment, the Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, but Arnon is most proud that MELLOHAWK Logistics staff have been twice named Young Freight Forwarder of the Year by the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA).

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Working hard helps understand the value of giving back. Arnon sits on the board of Abrigo Centre and has completed two full terms as an Elected volunteer member of the CONCID, the Brazilian Citizenship Council promoting Mental Health, Job search, Suicide Prevention, Entrepreneurship, Financial planning, and Networking. During the Covid-19 Pandemic, the Council, lead by Arnon, assisted in organizing flights, meals and transportation while repatriating 655 stranded families back to Brazil. Arnon was awarded the Order of Rio Branco Medal, Brazil’s highest award for promoting the image of Brazil to the world, for his efforts.

Being a leader means making leaders. Providing opportunity is his legacy.

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