Date of birth: 08.07.1989 
Hometown: Aix-en-Provence, South of France

How did you get into climbing? Who taught or inspired you?

Until the age of 10 I lived in the northeast of France, lost in the Vosges Mountains. In addition to a lot of kayaking and skiing I spent the rest of my time climbing trees. Then I moved to Bordeaux and for a few years I tried all kinds of sports. I really wanted to do sport climbing, but at that time I thought it was just impossible in my area since it’s all flat. With 15 I finally found a very small club next door and I started climbing about three times a month. During that period this sport fascinated me that much, that I started to spend all my leisure time climbing. Some people believed in me and pushed me to compete, which was not that easy in the area where I lived. After a few years I became what I am now! 

How important are ethics in climbing and what are yours all about?

The ethics of climbing have developed gradually in the last few years. By being so close to nature climbing is a sport with strong values. On the one hand I totally agree with many of these values, on the other hand some of them just expect too much. For a climber, it is important to respect living beings and nature (which should also be done in everyday life) and contribute to the evolution of the sport by respecting the ethics and allowing it to evolve logically. For some, ethics might cause a racking headache, but for me it's all about respecting my own values.

What is so special about climbing? What causes the passion and obsession with which you practice your sport?

There are always different situations and sensations in climbing. Going beyond my limits in both intensity and height. I feel free when I climb and that's why I became crazy about it. 

Do you have an idol?

Mozart. Actually all persons who live or have lived their passions to the bottom of their hearts.

How much time do you spend climbing?

All I can! It depends on the season whether I train or I'm outside... I would say around 25 hours a week.

Are there any routes or projects you are particularly proud of?

None so far. Managing “Mandala” or “Biography” one day would be awesome! (“Mandala” should be easier for me though).

How would you define yourself? As climber or boulderer?

Strange question! Something like: Le Nevé, Mélissa alias Mel, 22 years, 1.69m, 50kg a climber AND a boulderer. I just can’t choose between those two.

What is a cool boulder?

Stocked with extreme movements and tricky to solve. Everything randomly: coordination and sensation.

What do you need to be successful in this sport?

A lot of pleasure and the right spirit.

What would you do, if you could no longer climb?

If I ever have to stop climbing, only after hurting myself irrevocably. I guess making photos and music (I played the clarinet for 10 years). Traveling a lot and trying to find a place, where I can become a photo journalist.

What are your personal strengths?

I’m impulsive, passionate and playful.

And your weaknesses?

That’s my secret.