From running a communications agency in Argentina to founding a home décor brand in London, Melanie Kalfaian has built her journey on resilience, creativity, and purpose. As the founder of What a Host, Melanie turned challenges into opportunities, crafting a business rooted in authenticity and sustainability. Her story is a powerful reminder to our 5M+ Humans of Fuzia community that leadership is not just about building businesses, but about building meaning.
Q: Melanie, could you take us back to the beginning? What sparked your entrepreneurial journey?
I am originally from Argentina, where I ran a communications and events agency for several years. It was an amazing learning experience, but by the time I moved to London in 2020, I wanted a change. I was ready to build something of my own, this time a product-based brand. My first idea was to combine wine tasting with décor products, but importing wine into the UK was too complex. I soon realized that the home accessories were the true heart of the idea, and that’s how What a Host was born.
Q: What does What a Host focus on today?
We design and manufacture handcrafted home accessories for modern and rustic homes. Our collection ranges from plates, cutlery, candle holders, napkins, serving trays, to kitchenware — about 250 products today, with new collections each year. All our products are made in India by small family-owned factories. Working with them allows me to know exactly who is behind the work, ensure ethical practices, and keep our process sustainable and transparent.
Q: Looking back, what’s one milestone you’re especially proud of?
Recently, I collaborated with a well-known UK content creator with over 400K followers to launch a capsule collection. It was a huge step because it validated the consistency and credibility of my brand. Together, we worked on new designs, even introducing marble and stone pieces that were new to me. Beyond the products, it was meaningful to have another female founder believe in my brand and support me so strongly.
Q: What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
I believe every woman has a voice — the challenge is often being given the opportunity to be heard. Leadership, for women, comes with an extra layer of responsibility: setting an example for future generations. We need to create more spaces for women to step forward, raise their voices, and be seen. Personally, I always try to support women in any way I can, whether by hiring women in my brand, donating to social causes, or mentoring young women.
Q: What advice would you give to future women leaders?
Stay strong, stay focused, and stay humble. Don’t let the opinions of others bring you down if you believe deeply in your vision. Surround yourself with people who inspire you and are ahead of you in some way — that’s how you grow. And always be open to learning and adapting, but stay true to your purpose.
Q: Finally, what is your personal definition of success?
For me, success is building something with meaning. It’s not just about revenue or scale — it’s waking up every day knowing you’re working toward something that matters. Purpose is at the core of sustainability, happiness, and true success.
“Success is building something with a purpose. If you’re not happy with what you’re creating, no amount of money will make it meaningful.” – Melanie Kalfaian
Connect with Melanie Kalfaian:http://whatahost.co.uk
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