Meet Local Talent Melisse Djomby Enyawe
By: Kym Whitney
The Djomby Enyawe family is very tight-knit and supportive of one another. Melisse was born in Lagny, France, and four years later, moved to Newport Beach with her mom, dad, and brother. Her family welcomed twin boys a little more than a year after moving, adding to the exciting dynamic of their family. "Growing up with three brothers was full of so much energy and adventure, and I wouldn't change it for the world," says Melisse.
Despite being born with a hip dislocation that kept her in a brace for over a year and caused her to be a late walker, Melisse showed signs of athletic ability at a very young age. Starting in 2nd grade, Melisse immersed herself in soccer and played up until 7th grade. Then, in her first year at Corona del Mar High School, amidst the challenges of the pandemic, she decided to try running. Her older brother's talent as a runner and her soccer background served as the catalyst for her decision. Melisse quickly learned that running is entirely different from running in a soccer game, but she enjoyed the new challenge and attended practice diligently. It wasn't long before the tranquility of running set in, and she recognized how the pressure and stress of her day, week, or month would fade away. Melisse was also further drawn to the sport because of the team-building aspect. She saw it as a unique privilege to participate in a school running team, cherishing the camaraderie and support it offered. Melisse excelled quickly in her new sport and has received numerous awards and accolades in just three and a half years of starting.
In November 2022, the Corona del Mar High girls' cross-country team was the only representative for the area in the CIF State cross-country championships in Fresno. Still, Melisse accomplished her first podium finish at the state meet. She finished fifth in 17 minutes, 59.6 seconds, leading all Southern Section runners in the Division III girls' race.
To date, her awards & accolades include:
1st Place-2022 Women's CDM Scenic 5k
5th Place-2022 State Cross Country Meet
Runner-Up CIF 2022 Cross Country Final
Runner-Up at 2022 League Finals
1st team All County 2022
1st team All County 2023
Written up by the Daily Pilot
As a stand-out in her sport, and given all that she has accomplished in such a short amount of time, it is fitting that she will continue her running career on scholarship at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo.
"I can't wait to start training with the team and getting to run at Montaña de Oro. As an added perk, I’m excited to see cows on the daily!"
Melisse can't thank her parents enough for where she is today because they’ve worked very hard to give her and her brothers a chance to achieve their dreams. Although her parents didn't play competitive sports in high school, they have been nothing but supportive and motivating. "I wouldn't see myself where I am today if it weren't for my parents believing in me and cheering me on along the way."
When Melisse isn't focused on school or running track, she enjoys a little retail therapy, shopping for outfits with her mom (she knows what looks best on her!) and friends. During the summer, she frequently visits the pool and beach, and in the cooler months, she likes watching movies or visiting a snowy destination with her family. Her favorite family memory landed on her father’s 50th birthday this past summer when their family all celebrated with a trip to Mexico. They visited ruins, soaked up the sun on the beach, and indulged in some of the best food she's ever tasted. Finally, snorkeling with her brother in the crystal clear water full of many varieties of beautiful fish is one of her most cherished highlights of the trip.
Melisse serves as an inspiration for those who may be uncertain about following their passions.
“I want to encourage anyone questioning their ability to do something never to give up. The hip dislocation I experienced as an infant still causes me pain periodically and when I became a runner, I thought my ability might be impacted, but I learned that with hard work and persistence, you can defy the odds.”
In the initial stages of her running journey, Melisse wasn't particularly diligent about stretching her muscles; something that was crucial given the chronic issues she has with her hip. However, that changed after persistent encouragement from her parents. With a desire to continue running beyond high school, she committed herself wholeheartedly to the pursuit of her dreams. Today, Melisse can proudly declare that she has successfully attained her goal. Go, Mustangs!
