Melani Sanders: The Accidental Founder of the “We Do Not Care” Club
An Unexpected Movement
Meet Melani Sanders, a name that’s become synonymous with a refreshing movement for women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. Hailing from West Palm Beach, Florida, Sanders is a mother of three and a social media creator who never intended to become the face of a viral sensation. Yet, just six months after launching her “We Do Not Care” club, she’s now a prominent figure and recently recognized as People magazine’s Creator of the Year—a testament to the powerful impact she’s had on her community.
The Birth of the Club
The concept of the “We Do Not Care” club began rather innocuously. Sanders posted a light-hearted yet vulnerable video on social media, humorously lamenting the discomfort of wearing a too-small bra. Little did she know that this candid moment would resonate deeply with so many women. Inviting fellow women to shed the emotional weight of perfectionism and the pressures of societal expectations, Sanders encouraged authenticity—whether that meant embracing one’s own unique style, ordering takeout instead of cooking, or boldly stepping out in pajamas.
A Viral Sensation
The video struck a chord, spreading like wildfire across social media platforms. Following this initial post, women from all walks of life flooded her comments with their own stories and experiences. The movement gained traction rapidly, drawing the attention of mainstream media and generating interviews that further amplified Sanders’ voice. As she shared her thoughts and experiences, Sanders articulated a universal struggle that many women found themselves facing—navigating bodily changes and emotional complexities during this chapter of life.
Creating a Sisterhood
In her conversations with followers, Sanders often highlights the shared experiences that bond women together. “It’s a true sisterhood,” she shared with People magazine. With a growing audience of over 2.1 million women—including well-known advocates like Halle Berry, Sharon Stone, and Ashley Judd—she emphasizes that this movement transcends age, race, and social status. Women are recognizing their shared journeys and embracing a supportive community that encourages them to care less about societal expectations.
Redefining Identity and Visibility
Sanders’ platform has also shed light on the complexity of a woman’s identity during these transitions. Rather than merely calling out the emotional and physical shifts, she promotes a broader discussion about how society views aging women. “It’s made me realize that women are so much more alike than different,” she stated. This acknowledgment of shared experiences fosters empathy and understanding, allowing women to connect on a profound level as they navigate similar obstacles.
Upcoming Projects and Aspirations
With the momentum of the club growing steadily, Sanders has exciting plans on the horizon. She announced her forthcoming book, The Official We Do Not Care Club Handbook, set to be released on January 16. This handbook aims to further detail the ethos of the movement and provide women with practical tools and encouragement for embracing their authentic selves during life’s transitions.
Additionally, Sanders has partnered with Midi Health, a virtual care clinic focusing on peri- and postmenopausal health services. This collaboration aims to broaden her outreach and help women manage their health through accessible resources.
Continuing the Conversations
Despite her newfound recognition, Sanders remains grounded, continuing to share her weekly WDNC videos. With her trademark humor—often sporting multiple pairs of glasses—she delivers deadpan insights that charm her followers and further foster a sense of community. “I just had to go through the tears, the fears, and say, ‘Melani, apparently this was meant for you,’” she reflected in an interview. Her candidness and vulnerability resonate deeply, making her an everyday woman who simply chose to share her truth, unintentionally igniting a movement.
In a world where discussing menopause and aging is often stigmatized, Melani Sanders stands out as a beacon of empowerment, encouraging women to embrace their journeys together.