About Martina

Martina Kelades is a professional storyteller and a multi-passionate artist – an actor, public speaker and podcast host dedicated to dismantling mental and emotional health stigma. Drawing on her acting background, she leverages the art of storytelling to inspire others to live an intentional and courageous life. Martina founded “Life Out Loud Mental Health Consulting & Creatives,” a mental health promotion company and a platform that shares unfiltered stories supporting those experiencing mental health challenges and those who dare to live a life on purpose. With a deep belief in the power of vulnerability, Martina invites courageous conversations and encourages individuals to transform their mental health challenges into sources of strength. 

Human connection is the core of Martina’s brand. From her acting roles to her podcast and speaker presentations, she represents authenticity and connects with people in meaningful ways. Through compelling narratives, Martina fuels a movement inspiring individuals to embrace their adversities, find strength in their vulnerabilities and grow forward in life. With a compassionate heart posture at the core of her being, Martina’s service leads the way to transforming pain into purpose as she continues to nurture and inspire individuals from all walks of life through various platforms — one story at a time.

Martina Kelades sitting on counter

My Story

Welcome to my website! 

My name is Martina Kelades. I am a professional storyteller, a Canadian actor, and a mental health and wellness speaker. My journey has been quite beautiful and uncertain so far; however, it’s a journey that has led me here, and I believe I am where I am supposed to be.


This journey into the film industry and mental health field evolved from my previous career as a Personal Development Counselor and Facilitator. I burned out after ten years of working in the social services field, particularly in employability skills training and life skills development. Of course, this was an experience I had never anticipated or wanted. Still, I realized that challenges can lead to unfamiliar discoveries that can take you down a new life path. 

I was put off work for medical reasons related to burnout and was diagnosed with general anxiety disorder and depression. It was through my challenges with mental health (as well as my faith and therapy) that I discovered a way of turning my pain into purpose.

I started my business, Life Out Loud—Mental Health Consulting & Creatives, as an opportunity to facilitate and support organizations in holding safe spaces for sometimes difficult (and uncomfortable) conversations about mental health in the workplace and life in general. As a vulnerability speaker, I share my story to connect with community and offer insights, resources and support to increase overall health and wellness.

Through the pandemic, my business took off. The increased recognition and prioritization of mental health support for employees became the launching place of my work. Throughout 2020, I realized that I was still in burnout recovery and needed to focus on things outside of my work in mental health to take care of myself.

I turned to TikTok — specifically Tyler Perry’s Madea — to create funny videos to spread light, love and laughter in a world that felt so unpredictable. My first agent discovered me through my videos, noticed something in me, and asked if I had worked as an actor. Only having worked in the industry as a background performer several years prior, I signed with my agent and started booking actor gigs.

After countless hours of training, working with acting coaches, and auditioning, I started developing my craft as an actor. Within a year of starting out, I earned my credits to be a union actor through ACTRA. I’ve worked on several projects, including TV series, feature films, films, and commercials, and three years later, I continue to work and grow as an actor. 

My work in mental health also continues to grow as I’ve transitioned into a speaking business. I’ve spoken at several events as a keynote speaker, MC, and panellist in various settings, including TV and film, corporate companies, non-profit organizations, and conferences. 

I am only just beginning. Ultimately, one day, I will merge the two areas of my work—creating unique and meaningful projects in storytelling.

Thank you for being here!