Meet Lesley

Some stories begin on a stage. Mine began in a radio station.

Growing up in London, Ontario, I was surrounded by music from an early age. My father spent 18 years as Music Director for FM96 and CFPL 980, introducing me to the world of broadcasting, artists, and storytelling. Watching music bring people together sparked a passion that has shaped my entire life.

Life took an unexpected turn when I became a young mother in Grade 12. That experience taught me resilience, responsibility, and the importance of believing in yourself, even when the path ahead looks different than you imagined.

After earning my Advanced Diploma in Child and Youth Work from Sheridan College, I dedicated more than 13 years to supporting children and youth as an Educational Assistant in public education. I worked across elementary and secondary school settings alongside students with autism, developmental disabilities, communication differences, behavioural and mental health challenges, and complex care needs.

My work included individualized learning and life skills support, communication and self regulation strategies, behaviour and safety planning, personal care, and collaboration with teachers, families, therapists, and multidisciplinary teams. Those years shaped the educator, storyteller, and person I am today. They taught me how to listen carefully, meet people where they are, adapt creatively, and create environments where every individual feels safe, valued, capable, and heard.

Music also continues to be an important part of my life. For the past two years, I have been part of the Worship Leadership Team at Wellington Square United Church in downtown Burlington, where I continue to serve on the substitute team whenever I am needed.

Today, Les Mermaid Media brings together every chapter of that journey.

Whether I’m interviewing artists on a red carpet, hosting community events, performing original children’s music, visiting schools and libraries, collaborating with brands, or sharing meaningful stories online, the same values guide everything I do.

My experience in education is not separate from my creative work. It is one of its foundations. It influences the way I connect with interview guests, children, families, and audiences of all ages.

My mission is simple: to create moments that inspire connection, creativity, curiosity, and hope.