An interview with Melissa Mattedi, General Manager, BorgWarner Brazil

Through the Women Rising® program, Melissa rediscovered her voice, reconnected to her confidence, and began showing up in a whole new way. As she learned to trust her instincts and lead from her emotions, she stepped into her role as General Manager with greater clarity, presence, and authenticity.

Tell us about your experience going through the Women Rising® program.

The Women Rising program was a transformative experience for me. As a General Manager in a demanding international environment, I had been so focused on delivering results for others that I had lost touch with my own voice and confidence. The program gave me the structure and space to reconnect with who I am as a leader.

What changed for you as a result of the program?

I began showing up in a whole new way — more present, more authentic, and more willing to trust my instincts. For a long time, I had undervalued the emotional intelligence I bring to the table. Women Rising® helped me see that leading from your emotions isn’t a weakness — it’s a strength, especially when it’s paired with strategic clarity.

As General Manager at BorgWarner Brazil, I now lead with greater intentionality. I’m clearer about my values, more confident in my decisions, and more effective at bringing out the best in my team.

What advice would you share with women considering this program?

Don’t wait. Whether you are early in your career or at the peak of it, the self-discovery that happens in this program is invaluable. We spend so much time developing technical skills and delivering for others that we forget to invest in ourselves as leaders. Women Rising® gives you permission to do that, and the tools to make it last.