Melissa Powell is a Techstars founder and the CEO of Pocmi Inc., a pioneering HR-tech and labor migration platform recognized by the HR Technology Innovation Summit for advancing digital solutions that address global labor shortages, refugee reintegration and work trafficking. With nearly two decades of leadership spanning entrepreneurship, government advisory, and technology strategy, she is known for bridging business priorities with emerging technologies to drive transformation across both developing and developed markets.

As Chief Strategy Officer at Auqli, Nigeria’s first video-commerce platform, Melissa guides strategic alignment, platform scalability, and AI-driven innovation. Her systems-driven approach has made her a trusted advisor in digital transformation, workforce management, and policy innovation.

Appointed by Jamaica’s Minister of Labour to the Innovation Transformation Project Steering Committee, and having served on the National Mirror Committee for ISO Blockchain Standards, Melissa continues to influence the intersection of technology, governance, and equitable opportunity. Her contributions have earned her multiple honors, including the Women of Impact Award from the Jamaica Technology and Digital Alliance earlier this year and recognition as part of the official delegation for the Congressional Briefing of Women of Color in Blockchain on Capitol Hill last December.