About Sanda Melle

Khaliq Melle Sanda was born on September 7, 1996, in New York City to Angela and Oumarou Sanda. He attended Craig Elementary and Alton C. Crews Middle School in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Due to his academic excellence, he was accepted as a scholar into the A Better Chance of Westport program and went on to attend Staples High School in Westport, Connecticut.

When Khaliq arrived at Staples High School in 2010 as a freshman, he brought with him a contagious joy, quick wit, and genuine warmth. Early in his high school career, he became involved in Peer Advisors, an after-school group that allowed students to discuss issues and share their stories. Through this organization, Khaliq formed friendships across the Staples community. These bonds came easily to him—his friends recall that he loved people, and people loved to love him.

This love for Khaliq spread quickly throughout Westport. He acted as a unifier among his classmates; “knowing Khaliq” often became the spark for new friendships. As a student, he was responsible, hardworking, and exceptionally bright. Despite his demanding course load, Khaliq excelled effortlessly in school. His teachers at Staples High School were equally drawn to his infectious charm. He was a strong presence in the classroom—expressing his ideas with eloquence while also making his teachers laugh.