Born in 1987 in Perth, Western Australia, Melanie Perkins exhibited entrepreneurial flair from a young age. At 14, she launched her first venture, selling handmade scarves at local markets.
Her mother, a teacher, and her father, an engineer of Malaysian, Filipino, and Sri Lankan descent, provided a diverse cultural backdrop that influenced her innovative spirit.
While studying communications, psychology, and commerce at the University of Western Australia, Perkins tutored students in graphic design. She observed that mastering complex software like Adobe Photoshop and InDesign was a significant hurdle for many. This insight led her to envision a more accessible, user-friendly design platform.
Fusion Books: The Genesis of a Vision
In 2007, at just 19, Perkins co-founded Fusion Books with her partner, Cliff Obrecht. The platform allowed students and schools to create and print their own yearbooks using a simple drag-and-drop interface. Operating from her mother’s living room, Fusion Books grew to become Australia’s largest yearbook publisher, eventually expanding into France and New Zealand.
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The Birth of Canva
Recognizing the broader potential of simplifying design, Perkins aimed to create a platform that democratized graphic design for everyone. In 2011, she pitched her idea to Silicon Valley investor Bill Tai during a conference in Perth. Although initial funding was elusive, her persistence paid off when she met Cameron Adams, a former Google engineer. Together with Obrecht, they launched Canva in 2013.
Canva’s intuitive interface and collaborative features quickly resonated with users. By 2021, the platform boasted over 170 million monthly active users and was valued at $40 billion.
Leadership and Philanthropy
As CEO, Perkins has been a proponent of inclusive leadership and workplace diversity. Under her guidance, Canva achieved a 41% female representation, surpassing industry averages.
In 2021, Perkins and Obrecht joined the Giving Pledge, committing to donate the majority of their wealth to philanthropic causes. Through the Canva Foundation, they have contributed over $31 million to initiatives like GiveDirectly and educational programs in Africa and India.
Future Outlook
Canva continues to evolve, integrating AI tools such as Magic Studio and expanding its enterprise offerings. With a user base exceeding 220 million, the company aims to reach one billion users, further solidifying its mission to make design accessible to all.
Legacy
Melanie Perkins’ journey from a university student to the CEO of a global tech company exemplifies innovation, resilience, and a commitment to empowering others. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.
