Meet Lenya – Co-Founder & Creative Spark at Doodlebugs 🎨🐞

Hi, I’m Lenya, and art has been my lifelong love!

From the moment I could hold a pencil or paintbrush, I was hooked. That passion led me to art college, where I completed an HND in Graphic Design, specialising in illustration – the perfect blend of creativity and storytelling.

After graduating, I became a freelance illustrator, creating everything from greeting cards for the UK market to t-shirt designs for the US, as well as illustrating my father’s publications and designing packaging for his merchandise. I’ve also worked in a busy desktop publishing studio as a Graphic Designer – so I’ve definitely had my hands in all kinds of creative pots!

Now, I’m thrilled to bring all of that experience and enthusiasm to Doodlebugs. My mission is simple: to spark creativity and create calm through art, helping every child express themselves and feel proud of what they create.

I can’t wait to see the imagination and joy that shines through each little artist who joins us! 🧘🏽‍♀️🎨

Meet Mandi – Co-Founder & Crafty Heart Behind Doodlebugs 🧶🐞

Hi, I’m Mandi, and I’m all about crafting, creativity, and helping children flourish through imaginative play!

My background is rooted in sales, marketing, and advertising, but over the years, my passion for supporting children’s development led me to work within classroom settings – from one-to-one support for children with specific learning needs to running group interventions focused on gross motor skills and creating positive experiences during playtimes and lunch breaks.

What I truly love is seeing children express themselves through art and craft – there’s nothing better than watching imagination take flight with just a box, a loo roll, and a bit of creative magic! ✨

I’m deeply passionate about children’s well-being, resilience, and self-esteem, and at Doodlebugs, our mission is to support every child in a calm, creative, and pressure-free environment.

At Doodlebugs, there’s no right or wrong – just creativity!
I’m so proud of the space we’ve created, and I can’t wait to welcome you and your little ones to our crafty, colourful world.

Meet Liz – Our Wonderful Doodlebugs 'Nanny'! 💛

With a background in primary education and a degree in Textiles and Fine Art, Liz brings a perfect blend of creativity, warmth, and experience to Doodlebugs. As a volunteer, she’s a calming, joyful presence – always ready to lend a hand with crafts or spark a lovely chat with the children.

Liz says Doodlebugs reminds her of all the best parts of teaching: laughter, imagination, and a whole lot of glitter! We’re so lucky to have her as part of the team.

Meet Julie – Our Wonderful Minibugs Mentor! 📚🐞

Julie brings a wealth of experience, a love of learning, and a gentle, nurturing approach to our Minibugs sessions. Her journey began when she started volunteering at her son’s school, eventually training as a primary school teacher and later becoming a much-loved children’s librarian – working with children from birth to 18 years.

From Baby Rhyme Time and Toddler Read & Rhyme to school visits, craft sessions, and Lego clubs, Julie has spent years making learning fun, creative, and accessible for young minds.

Now happily retired, we’re incredibly lucky to have her share her time, energy, and passion with us at Doodlebugs. Whether she’s reading stories, leading crafts, or simply offering a warm smile, Julie is a calm, caring presence who helps make our Minibugs mornings extra magical.

We’re so grateful to have her on the team!

Meet the Marvellous Yvonne – Always Smiling, Always Helping! 🌟🧶

Say hello to Yvonne, one of our much-loved Doodlebugs volunteers! With her warm smile, positive energy, and a heart of gold, Yvonne brings joy to every session she attends at our London Colney club.

A lifelong local (78 years and counting!), Yvonne has always been passionate about supporting children – from her days as Snowy Owl with the Brownies to reading with pupils at St Bernadette’s School. Now, she shares her time with us twice a week, helping little hands create big masterpieces.

When she’s not at Doodlebugs, Yvonne loves reading, knitting, and crocheting – and we're so lucky she’s chosen to share her time, kindness, and creativity with us.

We’re absolutely thrilled to have her as part of the Doodlebugs family – the children (and the grown-ups!) adore her!