Leona Connelly was born and raised in Kirkland Lake. After graduating from École Catholique Jean-Vanier, she pursued her post-secondary education at the University of Ottawa, earning an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Communications. She then continued her studies at the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Law, completing the French Common Law Program.

During law school, Leona served as Vice-President of Communications for both the student body and the University of Ottawa’s Women & the Law group. She helped organize the annual Souper Français, participated in several moots, and completed an internship with the Ottawa Wills Project, where she helped prepare pro bono estate planning documents for low-income individuals.

Since 2017, Leona has worked as a summer student at Chamaillard Law Professional Corporation (formerly known as Richard & Chamaillard Law), where she has gained hands-on legal experience throughout her academic career. Following her graduation from law school in June 2025, Leona returned to her hometown to complete her articles with Chamaillard Law Professional Corporation. She is expected to be called to the Ontario Bar in March 2026.