
ABOUT US
WHO WE ARE
Leading-Edge Collective was founded in 2022, after discovering the need for more events that celebrate inclusivity, connection and supportive growth within Perth’s creative community. Our events are designed to ensure every creator who walks through the LEC doors feels empowered to express themselves, discover love in their craft, and have accessible opportunities to network and meet other like-minded individuals.
We strongly believe that exploring your creativity should never be done alone, it’s uplifting when you have the support of a community that is inclusive, safe and inspiring. That is why we continue to create next-level opportunities for creatives to be seen and heard. We do this by hosting a variety of events.
WHAT WE DO
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CREATIVE PHOTOSHOOTS
Creative photoshoots include our Concept Day’s & Photowalks. These events are designed to help creatives discover their unique style and step out of their comfort zone. We ensure each concept is different to help build your portfolio.
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NETWORKING EVENTS
Public network events that provide an accessible space for Perth creators across all fields to connect & put themselves out there. The events celebrate the creative community through nights of networking and collaboration.
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BRAND COLLABORATIONS
Collaborations with Perth local brands that offer the opportunity to work with emerging creatives in an inspiring photoshoot setting. These Studio Day’s showcase the brands vision while allowing LEC participants to express their individuality.
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COMMUNITY CONNECTION
The community connections events are FREE meet-ups for Edge Circle subscribers only. Allowing creatives to connect outside of a photoshoot environment. The perfect opportunity to make new connections & friendships.
meet the team
Chelsea Ioannidis
Founder, Creative Director & Head Of Marketing
Chelsea (she/her) is a multifaceted creative professional based in Perth, Western Australia, specialising in photography, creative direction, entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and content strategy. With over six years of industry experience, she is often described as the creative and passionate “girl next door.” Chelsea began her journey by founding Identity Media House (formerly CHELSTAR Media), a creative media house focusing on branding photography, social media work & mindset coaching. Chelsea works alongside businesses, freelancers and content creators that need a brand refresh & focus on building their online presence. Through this venture, she has collaborated externally with local musicians, artists, actors & music venues across Perth. Notable venues she has worked with include Badlands, Crown Towers, Optus Stadium, Milk Bar Perth, and The Sewing Room.
Her creative pursuits started early; from the age of four, Chelsea was a dedicated performer specialising in dance, singing, acting, and musical theatre. She holds certifications in Musical Theatre and has participated in major local productions at venues such as the Regal Theatre and Crown Theatre. In addition to her work with Identity Media House, Chelsea is actively involved with 3P Photography, an innovative school photography company, where she engages in school commercial work and events.
Chelsea’s passion for business and marketing is evident through her self-taught expertise in social media marketing, content creation, and event management. Over the past three years, she has honed these skills with guidance from various mentors and inspirational speakers. Through her creative endeavors, Chelsea aims to inspire creators to be more authentic online, encouraging them to embrace their unique journeys and actively engage in networking within the creative community.
Recognising the need for a supportive creative community in Perth, Chelsea founded Leading-Edge Collective. She wanted to create opportunities for creators to attend community events, network, and build their portfolios in a safe and inclusive environment. Over the past three years, she has cultivated a thriving community with plans for continued growth. Chelsea firmly believes that viewing other creatives as collaborators rather than competitors fosters personal development and industry exposure. With the support from the LEC team, Chelsea is committed to organising innovative events that challenge creators to step out of their comfort zones and explore diverse aspects of their crafts across various photoshoots, collaborations and venues in Perth. Through her leadership at Leading-Edge Collective, Chelsea continues to make a significant impact on Perth’s creative scene, empowering individuals to connect, learn, and grow together.
Wesley Stephen
Events Executive & Social Media Assistant
Wesley (he/him) is a Perth Photographer, Freelance Model, Content Creator specialising in Creative Fashion and Boudoir Portraits, as well as Branding photography for Small Business’s & Artists in the music industry. At the start of his journey, Wesley immediately prioritised his passion for creativity by consistently taking on any opportunity that came his way. During that time, he found guidance from mentor David Chong (perthphotography.com), who provided clarity and direction he needed to hone his skills.
Since 2021, through his business WesCxpture Photography, Wesley has been recognised for his work with local Perth music artists, recording studios, fashion brands, small businesses and content creators. His most recognised work includes self-directing, producing and editing a music video for local Perth artist SANCTE’s single “IDNSIGFBMGED” (2023). As well as having his worked featured on a Perth fashion label’s website “ON CUT”, for their latest “Street fight” Collection (2024). This collection also gave the opportunity to involve a variety of Leading-Edge models Abbey T, Matt G, Jade R & Emily B
As Event Executive, Wesley oversees every Leading-Edge Collective event to ensure it fulfils all our members’ needs, enabling them to honor their creative expression and skills. This includes providing valuable resources to guide members through events, gathering feedback for continuous improvement and reflecting on ways to enhance further opportunities outside of LEC. Wesley simply believes in trusting your inner gut feelings with minimal second guessing. It is your powerful indicator to guide you to perusing your creative passions & achieving long term goals.
LISTEN TO THE FIRST EPISODE OF OUR PODCAST!
