Meet the CEO!!
ceo BIO
Hi, my name is Marianna Leonard, and I’m a 9th grader and the proud founder of Mari’s Boutique, a brand I launched on September 1st, 2024. I created my brand with one powerful vision—to empower Black youth, inspire confidence, and spread happiness through fashion and storytelling. Mari’s Boutique isn’t just about clothing, it’s a movement built on self-love, creativity, and community.
Every design I create represents strength, impact, and individuality. I didn’t follow anyone else’s path—I’m my own inspiration, my own queen. My message to the world is simple: keep shining, never give up, and don’t let anyone make you feel like you don’t matter. Believe in yourself before you believe in anyone else.
I’ve faced hardships, but those experiences shaped me and built the foundation of my brand. Everything I’ve been through made Mari’s Boutique what it is today. And honestly, I appreciate the people who doubted me, because they pushed me to grow into the person I am now.
My goal is bigger than fashion—I want to make people feel seen, valued, and confident, and one day give back by providing clothing and inspiration to those in need. At Mari’s Boutique, it’s not just about what you wear—it’s about how you shine.
Education
2025 - Present
Vancouver School of Arts and Academics
High School Student
Focused on Theater with interdisciplinary studies in Literary Arts, Media Integrated Arts (film production), and Graphic Design. Developed strong creative storytelling, performance, and visual communication skills through hands-on projects and collaborative productions. Actively recognized as a student role model, mentoring and supporting younger students within the school community. Gained experience in scriptwriting, acting, filmmaking, and digital design, while consistently demonstrating leadership, creativity, and dedication to the arts.
2024 - Present
Please Don't Die Black Men (PDDBM)
Fashion Design & Entrepreneurship (PDDBM)
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Designed full outfits (each consisting of 2 coordinated clothing pieces) across two program years
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Developed a personal fashion brand, including logo, business cards, and cohesive brand identity
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Built and managed a custom Wix website with a personal domain name and e-commerce shop
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Created and uploaded original designs for print-on-demand production and sales
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Took accurate body measurements and prepared garments for models
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Directed and managed models, fittings, styling, and overall presentation
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Participated in student-led fashion shows, including the Black History Month Fashion Show
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Gained hands-on experience in event planning, promotion, branding, and customer engagement
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Strengthened skills in digital design (Photoshop), garment critique, and peer collaboration
Journalism & Media (PDDBM)
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Collaborated to produce multiple magazine publications (digital and print) over two years
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Researched and wrote articles on teen, community, and culturally relevant topics
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Cited credible sources and applied proper research methods in written work
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Participated in interviews, article development, and editorial collaboration
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Contributed to marketing, outreach, and magazine distribution efforts
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Developed skills in writing, editing, public speaking, and storytelling
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Gained real-world experience in content creation, teamwork, and publication production
Film & Media Production (PDDBM – 2024–2025)
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Wrote original short film scripts with structured storytelling elements
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Developed detailed characters, storyboards, and scene planning
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Explored genres including film noir, thriller, true crime, and drama
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Practiced monologues, voice acting, and on-camera performance
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Filmed, edited, and promoted original video content
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Learned video editing techniques and short-form (TikTok-style) media marketing
