Mellen Masea

Mellen Masea is a senior at Harvard College studying Economics with a secondary focus on Global Health & Health Policy. Growing up in Kilifi, Kenya, Mellen witnessed the quiet struggles of children and youth navigating life in and out of orphanages. In Kenya, 8 in 10 children living in orphanages have a living parent – yet entrenched poverty, domestic violence, family breakdown, and weak social support systems often force many children into institutional care. 

To address this issue, Mellen founded Nia Yetu, a community-based organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable children and strengthening families at risk of separation. Nia Yetu takes a holistic approach spanning from prevention to reintegration. The organization builds strong foundations for children by providing livelihood and psychosocial support to families at risk, addressing the economic and social drivers of institutionalization. For youth aging out of orphanages, Nia Yetu offers trades and life skills training to help them access higher education and employment opportunities for upward mobility. 

Alongside her work at Nia Yetu, Mellen conducts climate justice research at the Radcliffe Institute and the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs. She also serves as a Peer Advising Fellow, helping first-year Harvard students navigate academics, campus resources, and the transition to college life. As an Emerging Leaders Program Mentor at the Radcliffe Institute, she guides high school sophomores in the Greater Boston area in developing leadership skills and driving positive social change in their communities. Mellen believes every child deserves to grow up in a safe, loving home, surrounded by support and care that allows them to thrive. She is committed to creating opportunities that center vulnerable children, strengthen families, and build resilient communities.