

Outside of her professional and public life, Melanie is a passionate artist and musician. She sees creativity as a quiet but vital part of who she is—an outlet for reflection, emotional expression, and clarity. She often paints or plays music to unwind and reconnect with herself.Her name—Shiraz—has special meaning. It comes from her mother’s side of the family. A distant ancestor once lived in Shiraz, a historic city in southern Iran, and that heritage continues through her surname. Though several generations removed, it’s a legacy she honors with pride.