Lezlie States

Lezlie is a proud resident of North End Halifax, Nova Scotia and has lived there for more than 50 years. She was raised in a family of 4 brothers so sport and community have always been a staple in their household. With Community Y in her blood, the values of  – Carry the Books, Carry the Ball have been engrained into her soul. In having this philosophy, she has always believed in empowerment, leadership and education of African Nova Scotian youth and youth from marginalized communities with an emphasis on females. Lezlie is the CEO and Director of Maritime Elite Girls Basketball Academy founded in 2009 located in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She has been blessed to receive the 2019 Women's Active Trendsetter Award, the 2021 BNS Frank Baldwin Development Award, and The Crown Basketball Community Award in 2024. Lezlie’s vision is to help support young ladies to recognize their strength, beauty and voice to empower them to become the best versions of themselves.