MELANIE SHIRAZ | מלאני שירז

Short Bio

Melanie Shiraz, 26, is an Israeli entrepreneur with a background in technology, innovation, and advocacy—also known as Melanie Asor. Born in Israel and raised between cultures, she is committed to empowering women, amplifying underrepresented voices, and strengthening pride and belonging within the Jewish and Israeli community. In her free time, she is also an artist and musician.

Extended Bio

I’ve always been someone who thrives on building—whether it’s a venture, an idea, a story, or a space where others feel seen and inspired. I was born in Israel and raised between cultures, eventually returning to live in Israel full-time. I earned dual degrees from UC Berkeley in Data Science and Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus on Israel, and I hold a Global MBA from Tel Aviv University.

Over the last several years, I’ve worked at the intersection of technology, strategy, and impact—contributing to fast-moving startups in Silicon Valley, leading global teams, and eventually founding my own FinTech company. I bring both structure and vision to what I build, always grounded in the belief that women deserve a seat at every table.

Alongside my work in tech and entrepreneurship, I’ve always found power in expression. As an artist and musician, I use creativity to explore meaning, emotion, and connection. Though it’s never been the center of my public life, it’s a vital part of who I am—a source of clarity, energy, and voice.

Some know me as Melanie Asor, others as Melanie Shiraz. I’ve used both names interchangeably throughout my life—partly as a way to honor both sides of my identity, and partly as a tribute to my mother’s lineage. These names have marked different expressions of self, but they all belong to the same story.

My connection to Israel is constant. I’ve represented Israeli and Jewish voices in international advocacy spaces, participated in global leadership programs, and worked to strengthen the bridge between diaspora and homeland. Whether mentoring young women in tech or speaking on behalf of my community, I lead with conviction, clarity, and compassion.

Above all, I believe in showing up fully—with intelligence, heart, and purpose—and helping others do the same.

Personal Goals

Through Miss Israel, I want to represent the multidimensional spirit of Israeli women. We are innovators, leaders, builders, nurturers, and visionaries—and we carry our histories with pride.

This platform isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about challenging narrow definitions of what it means to lead, represent, or inspire. I want to show that elegance and power, intellect and softness, discipline and creativity, can coexist in one person.

I believe this platform is deeply feminist. It is not a contradiction—it’s a reclamation. It’s a chance to demonstrate that women are multifaceted, brilliant, and bold. We don’t have to choose between being taken seriously and being fully seen. We already are both.

And above all else, I want to spread good—through action, presence, and intention. I want to leave every space better than I found it, and help others feel more seen, more heard, and more empowered in their own lives.

As someone who’s built a career in tech, launched ventures, embraced education, and expressed herself creatively, I hope to use this opportunity to expand what’s possible—for women, for Israelis, and for anyone navigating multiple worlds with strength and authenticity.

I’m not here to fit a mold. I’m here to represent something real—bold, human, and deeply rooted.