Melissa Perez
Founder, Fresa Media
Melissa Perez is a seasoned media and public affairs consultant, with more than a decade of experience in coordinating and managing complex media productions, crafting newsworthy narratives, and driving impactful community engagement.
An Emmy-nominated veteran television producer and former special projects producer for “The Jam” on WCIU, Melissa knows how to turn any event or opportunity into a compelling news story. She initially started as an associate producer for the “You and Me” morning show, then was quickly promoted to line producer before taking over as segment producer, facilitating live and taped segments featuring everything from local restaurants and festivals to high-profile celebrity interviews. Melissa most notably produced two half-hour TV specials on WCIU with Chicago native and Grammy and Oscar Award winning artist, Che ‘Rhymefest’ Smith: “Creating History with Rhymefest: A Black History Month Special” and “Black History Month: The Movement.”
Melissa got her start in television while she was still a student at Columbia College in Chicago, working as an intern at Kurtis Productions on “Cold Case Files” and at Si! Communications, a reputable Latino public relations firm. She expanded her expertise as a freelance associate producer at Towers Productions and by working on a project for The Weather Channel’s “When Weather Changed History.” Melissa also worked as a Special Projects Producer at TalkLab Productions with Bureau Gravity.
Her wide range of experiences as a producer and media consultant has given her the unique perspective needed to guide and shape a broadcast segment from the initial concept to successful on-air execution. In addition to her extensive media background, Melissa has cultivated deep connections and forged strong relationships with Chicago’s civic community, collaborating with elected officials and community leaders on high-profile projects and advocacy campaigns. She continues to leverage her longstanding relationships—built over the course of her successful media career—to advance mission-driven storytelling, galvanize communities to take meaningful action towards a cause, and ultimately, achieve impactful outcomes for her clients.
Melissa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism from Columbia College Chicago.
Mission
To empower small businesses, entrepreneurs, and non-profit organizations by creating authentic digital experiences that amplify their voice, connect with their audience, and drive meaningful growth.
Vision
To be the catalyst that transforms passionate ventures into thriving digital presences, creating a world where small organizations have the same impact and reach as larger competitors.
Values
- Client Partnership
- Creative Excellence
- Continuous Growth