How Losing My Dream Job Skyrocketed My Career | Alexandra Gater | TEDxCentennialCollegeToronto

In this talk, Alexandra Gater, a Centennial College graduate, shares how losing her dream job sky-rocketed her career as a KZread influencer. Before starting her KZread Channel, Alexandra was the Home Editor for Canada’s iconic women’s lifestyle magazine Chatelaine, where she created the successful KZread series The Home Primp. Alexandra is passionate about showing millennials it’s possible to live in a home that feels stylish and beautiful (even if you rent!) without spending a lot of time or money. Her KZread channel is a collection of service-driven home decor content including budget room makeovers and decor hauls. In just a year, she’s gained over 165k viewers who tune in every Friday to receive easy decor tips and fun, budget DIY inspiration. When she isn’t producing content for her own channel, she is a host for the HGTV digital series Buy or DIY and hosts and produces Shopify’s Make It Work. She is also a regular guest expert on Cityline and The Global Morning Show. Alexandra graduated on the Dean’s List with High Distinction for an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree specializing in Journalism and minoring in Studio Arts at The University of Toronto. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

Пікірлер: 218

  • @kylietokar1344
    @kylietokar13443 жыл бұрын

    Coming here from Alexandra's channel! Didn't know her full story but now I'm even more of a fan ❤️

  • @crystalfrank87

    @crystalfrank87

    3 жыл бұрын

    Right? Had no idea

  • @vkvkvk317

    @vkvkvk317

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yes! I came here from the office renovation video 😃

  • @joanneketch5103

    @joanneketch5103

    Жыл бұрын

    Same

  • @jessicafellmann5101

    @jessicafellmann5101

    8 ай бұрын

    Thinking the same 😊

  • @sandrastrobel1254
    @sandrastrobel12543 жыл бұрын

    As one of your avid followers, I’m so glad that you followed your dream. Way to go Alexandra!

  • @AlisonLam
    @AlisonLam3 жыл бұрын

    So proud of you Alexandra. I was a fan of yours since the home primp days and i remember being shocked the magazine let go of the most promising person that would set them ahead into the new world of KZread.... Their loss, our gain. We have more content from you now that you courageously branched out on your own and look at you now with your own office studio and full time employees of your own. Keep rockin it!!

  • @jeanne_guitton
    @jeanne_guitton3 жыл бұрын

    Wow, Alexandra is not only a gifted decorator and an immensely engaging online presonality, she is also an awesome public speaker! Ive been following her, so I knew her journey, and still I was on the edge of my seat!

  • @lorrainegatzke1048
    @lorrainegatzke10483 жыл бұрын

    Alexandra, you bring tears to my eyes, I am so happy for you. I am twice your age, I love your channel and I pay attention to what you have to say. That was an excellent and inspiring talk. And this is just the beginning. 😁💖

  • @StephPalallos
    @StephPalallos3 жыл бұрын

    I found Alexandra's channel on KZread during lockdown. I am not a millenial (she could be my daughter!) and yet her channel resonated with me. Her videos were all well written and well produced. I knew she had a good head on her shoulders. I've always wondered what made her start her channel. After seeing this, I admire and respect her more. She's not only inspiring to young adults, but also to people like me who thought it was too late to start something new. Thank you, Alexandra and TEDx Talks for this.

  • @evajmd

    @evajmd

    3 жыл бұрын

    This is such a kind comment!! I hope AG sees this!

  • @doushi123456

    @doushi123456

    3 жыл бұрын

    Well said dear 🌷

  • @jillcropp3262

    @jillcropp3262

    3 жыл бұрын

    Agreed. I love AG , her additive and her aesthetic.

  • @Smilebefine

    @Smilebefine

    3 жыл бұрын

    If I were her ex company I would hit my head to table that she taught us how to decorate, every day cos they left her go. 🙈😂😂😂 How didn't they see potential, I can't understand. Something to think about people who work there!? Maybe they're not fit for the title they have. I would be ashamed, if my job is finding talent and I let go one of the biggest talent in home decor and diy. But I'm also grateful, if they wouldn't let her go we would not have her in her full glory and for that I'm thankful for. Well done Alexandra, you inspire us all, not just in home decor but as a person 🙌❤️ Greeting from sLOVEnia, Europe

  • @GoogleUser-wx8mw

    @GoogleUser-wx8mw

    3 жыл бұрын

    La Gatita, same here! Old enough to be her mom and found her videos somewhere around quarentine. 🙂

  • @lavane26
    @lavane263 жыл бұрын

    I had never heard of recreators and repurposers... I guess I'm a little of both. I was let go from my job as a graphic designer in a newspaper and since then I started a business as an illustrator, which has not been sustaining me yet, but I also wrote and illustrated a children's book, one of the things I'm proudest of.

  • @wendylbranchfield7959
    @wendylbranchfield795912 күн бұрын

    I have been following your channel for years and years and years, but I am just now discovering this TED talk.Brava, Alexandra! That was really lovely!👏👏👏👏👏👏😊✊🏻

  • @WeGetHighWeLetGo
    @WeGetHighWeLetGo3 жыл бұрын

    Alexandra, your TED Talk reminds me of the saying "Sometimes good things fall apart to allow even better things to come together" and it sounds like this was definitely the case for you! You are such an inspiring lady and I can't wait to see what the future has in store for team AG!

  • @NoraDesmond897
    @NoraDesmond8973 жыл бұрын

    Gurl, you rock. Thank you so much for your heartfelt words. I am going to read that book you discussed. My reality is that the last job I had, made me an introvert and have extremely low self esteem. I'm in my 50's, I'm not done, just have to find my way.

  • @Black.Sabbath

    @Black.Sabbath

    4 ай бұрын

    Are you an extrovert?

  • @kaykitching
    @kaykitching2 жыл бұрын

    I find it inspiring to listen to all these people who got fired or laid-off/lost their jobs then used this as the catalyst for a better career future... But most of the time these great stories involve people who are educated and experienced in great fields, therefore they have the resources to make things happen, or at least make it easier for them. I'm about to lose my job and I'm frustrated because I hate jobs and have no sense of purpose whatsoever. If you're in the same situation as mine, cheers to a hopeful and successful future. We'll get there.

  • @Black.Sabbath

    @Black.Sabbath

    4 ай бұрын

    Yep, I was made redundant with no backup whatsoever. That job was my lifeline.

  • @gordongray9166

    @gordongray9166

    2 ай бұрын

    Hope you're in a better place in your life now. I just lost my job and I'm struggling to see the light at the end of the tunnel given the current job market but I still have a bit of hope.

  • @lovefaith6285
    @lovefaith62853 жыл бұрын

    I'm also not a millennial but found Alexandra's channel prior to lockdown and it inspired me to make my house a home. I love her style, although it's not my style, I have found so many tips on how to create function and beauty to my own style. This talk resonated with me because I have been let go from two jobs that I loved, the first was a massive layoff and the second one due to COVID. Alexandra, ur so right about having trust and I'm still trying to find that. Congratulations on your success and thank you for not quitting. 🎉🍾🥂🎉🍾🥂🎉🍾🥂❤❤❤

  • @shannonsolomon8491
    @shannonsolomon84913 жыл бұрын

    Alexander you are so inspiring! I started a job as an independent contractor and so many times I just wanna walk away. But something inside of me says give it time and those around me say give it time. So after hearing you speak I'm going to keep chuggin along!

  • @AlineSantos-hy1hq

    @AlineSantos-hy1hq

    3 жыл бұрын

    ❤️

  • @user-yc7zb4cj4x

    @user-yc7zb4cj4x

    Жыл бұрын

    Surveillance

  • @togepi2023
    @togepi20233 жыл бұрын

    Inspiring! I love that you kept going despite the setbacks. Your success is well-earned and well-deserved.

  • @isabelapinto8200
    @isabelapinto820011 ай бұрын

    Just came here from her channel. I just found out about it last month and I’m already a fan of her work. She’s so inspiring. ❤

  • @genbee350
    @genbee3503 жыл бұрын

    Having lost my Dad and job this year this resonated with me. Wishing you continued success from a non-millennial who enjoys your content greatly.

  • @britdeshimummy5934
    @britdeshimummy59343 жыл бұрын

    Amazing talk Alexandra! What a great reminder for us all to remember the positives of every situation 👏🏽

  • @victoriaclifton507
    @victoriaclifton5073 жыл бұрын

    In tears. Love you AG!!

  • @indirakuriyan9366
    @indirakuriyan93662 жыл бұрын

    Wonderful Alexandra. Am one of your subscribers from India. I wish you well. Very encouraged with your story.

  • @sabrinaarellano1489
    @sabrinaarellano14893 жыл бұрын

    TEAM AG!!! Love from South Texas! 💖

  • @sydneykasmar
    @sydneykasmar3 жыл бұрын

    I've never heard the conversation about recreators and repurposers. Thank you.

  • @letitiasullivan4438
    @letitiasullivan44383 жыл бұрын

    Alexandra, I am a huge fan of yours! And now I know why I love what you do. Your passion and energy comes from your soul and resonates so much with me. THANK YOU for taking on your life in the most extraordinary way and blazing a trail across the world. Wishing you success and abundance every day!

  • @ajpompe
    @ajpompe3 жыл бұрын

    This full-on made me cry. I have been watching Alexandra's channel for a year or so now, and her story is so incredibly inspiring. She is truly an inspiration to me and so many others out there! ❤️

  • @glendac7653
    @glendac76533 жыл бұрын

    I’ve been waiting for your TEDx Talk. Way to Go!!!

  • @suebrown7548
    @suebrown75483 жыл бұрын

    You have done so well for yourself. You have poise and the gift of creative thinking. You found a niche that needed to be filled and stuffed it full of AG! The world is waiting for you!

  • @gabriellemcmanus2650
    @gabriellemcmanus26503 жыл бұрын

    I'm so glad you didn't give up on you channel. I love your videos.

  • @mallikaiyer2577
    @mallikaiyer25773 жыл бұрын

    This is so incredibly amazing and motivating! I’m so glad you decided to trust yourself Alexandra- I love your channel!

  • @arlinegeorge6967
    @arlinegeorge69673 жыл бұрын

    Loved your talk. Thank you bless you. All your dreams come true.

  • @alm1999
    @alm19993 жыл бұрын

    Beautiful, inspiring talk! You’re killing it.

  • @emmamacgregor731
    @emmamacgregor7312 жыл бұрын

    Yay!!! SO proud of you, and INSPIRED BY YOU, Alexandra! July 2021 and now not 300K subs....376K! WELL DONE!!!

  • @dulcegrace1188
    @dulcegrace11883 жыл бұрын

    So proud of you Alexandra! You’ve done something so inspiring. Soooo proud of you!

  • @angelacurran5924
    @angelacurran59243 жыл бұрын

    In Scotland we say 'what's for you won't go by you'! X

  • @allieshaw2531

    @allieshaw2531

    3 жыл бұрын

    Wow I’m Scottish and love that quote! Plus you are right, Alexandra IS doing what she’s meant to be doing :)

  • @carolargentina

    @carolargentina

    3 жыл бұрын

    Hi, I am from Argentina but I 've visited Scotland, I love your country mostly because of people , so nice ! Cheers 😊

  • @adapatricialopez1769
    @adapatricialopez17693 жыл бұрын

    I was in tears after watching this. Resonated with me so much. Thanks for the inspiration. 🧡

  • @tamannahayderstudio
    @tamannahayderstudio3 жыл бұрын

    you are so genuine and honest! i love your design and ideas....Just keep on going Alexandra....

  • @healingwithmel
    @healingwithmel3 жыл бұрын

    So proud of how far you have come Alexandria! Im an OG follower and im so happy for your success!

  • @johnniebasilan3435
    @johnniebasilan34353 жыл бұрын

    This was so amazing Alexandra! Thank you for being so inspirational to people around the world!

  • @oatmealhoney7446
    @oatmealhoney74463 жыл бұрын

    Love her references & so happy for her this year & her new office series!!

  • @saniaayushi5764
    @saniaayushi57643 жыл бұрын

    This is so precious. All that hard work and self belief is the only way to get to your dreams! Thank you for sharing your journey in such an inspiring way.

  • @ragnas.3163
    @ragnas.31633 жыл бұрын

    I'm so happy for you. I like your videos a lot. Keep going!

  • @sezbeee
    @sezbeee3 жыл бұрын

    Truly inspirational, I love watching her KZread videos, amazing to see she has even more recently grown to have a rented office space for her and her Team AG

  • @katiedecker9835
    @katiedecker98353 жыл бұрын

    Been waiting for this and so glad I didn’t miss it!

  • @musicbymer
    @musicbymer2 жыл бұрын

    I looked at this when it came out and was inspired very much , I have seen you grow so much since then till now . Amazing and inspiring is an understatement NOW your generosity is your secret ingredient . You made it happen not only for you , you Are making it for so many . Congratulations Alexandra.

  • @robinrogers5630
    @robinrogers56303 жыл бұрын

    Inspiring me to stay on my journey doing what I know best! Great talk AG!

  • @tamaramainardi9068
    @tamaramainardi90683 жыл бұрын

    This was inspiring and what I needed to hear. Over the last year, I have been a reseller and it has been something I enjoyed, but a challenge with reward. It has always been up and down or put on the back burner because I need a "real job". What I took away from this is putting in that time and effort, because things fall into place, but being present for it is necessary for it to happen. Thank you for sharing your story and having the courage to take a big step after being let go from your dream job!

  • @4thaluvofeverything
    @4thaluvofeverything3 жыл бұрын

    Loved this! Great message AG 💗

  • @TheKnittedRaven
    @TheKnittedRaven3 жыл бұрын

    Your resilience and determination is inspiring! Well done!

  • @catherinemitchell8461
    @catherinemitchell84613 жыл бұрын

    Well done Alexandra. I love watching your Channel and look forward to seeing your new videos.

  • @jemm2026
    @jemm20263 жыл бұрын

    Oh sweetie! I think you are awesome! I love your makeovers and i have used many of your ideas in my own home...wonderful talk!...But i miss Harriet...God rest her beautiful soul!

  • @A13Nair
    @A13Nair3 жыл бұрын

    Terrific talk Alexandra! Its so inspiring and encouraging for many who are in similar situations. Thank you for sharing your story in this powerful way!💐💐🌟🌟

  • @cleovivas
    @cleovivas3 жыл бұрын

    Alexandra, I love, love, love your work and you are also a great public speaker. Keep going and fly high.

  • @carolargentina
    @carolargentina3 жыл бұрын

    I am a huge fan of Alexandra. It is a relief for me entering to that world where we can worry about nice things. It is also inspiring for me when I think of being surrounded by a clean, fresh and happy beauty at home . Money is not all for that, good taste and creativity also matters. So, thank you, Alexandra, once more !

  • @luzperras728
    @luzperras7283 жыл бұрын

    She is amazing and I can't wait to see more of her videos and creations -this video inspired me to trust in my abilities! Go AG!

  • @ToriBissell
    @ToriBissell3 жыл бұрын

    Wow Alexandra thank you so much for sharing! I'm so incredibly proud of you for killing this. I've loved your channel from the beginning and seeing you get the recognition you deserve is so awesome.

  • @Leewn
    @Leewn3 жыл бұрын

    So inspiring, Alexandra! In the midst of quarantine I started a new job. A couple of months I already felt like I wasn’t in age right place. Took the massive gamble of letting then know that it wasn’t for me and I was looking for another job. Still haven’t found that dream job, but I’m confident I will, I trust in my skills and I’m happy I took the gamble!

  • @santasantinagatta
    @santasantinagatta8 ай бұрын

    Thank you Alexandra

  • @TvGunslingeRvT

    @TvGunslingeRvT

    7 ай бұрын

    You know it's bs right? Losing a job hard thing

  • @marvymaxee
    @marvymaxee3 жыл бұрын

    Well done, Alexandra. I’m happy for you. Writing and memorizing and delivering a speech is hard enough. Keeping it engaging and informative even harder. Congrats!!

  • @reddenver
    @reddenver3 жыл бұрын

    I’ve watched you since you left that magazine that shall not be named;) I had no idea that was what happened I thought you left on your own like a lot of the buzzfeed ppl. Your incredible.

  • @jennplans3927
    @jennplans39273 жыл бұрын

    Such a HUGE fan of Alexandra already but, this just makes me like her even more! It's amazing to see where everyone starts! Congrats girl!

  • @megpoumian6954
    @megpoumian69543 жыл бұрын

    Also coming from Alexandra's channel. Wow! Wow wow!🥰

  • @patbailey-persad6516
    @patbailey-persad65163 жыл бұрын

    WOW. What an amazing experience. Tnx for sharing and good luck to you!

  • @christyxandrick5168
    @christyxandrick51682 жыл бұрын

    So happy I found this talk today! I am at that crossroad! I need to do some soul searching! Thank you Alexandra! I didn’t think I could be a bigger fan but I am after watching this! Continued success!!! 🥰

  • @gabrielasimmons2401
    @gabrielasimmons24013 жыл бұрын

    As a follower of Alexandras channel, I wish I had just a little bit of her creativity and guts. She is a very smart young woman and I hope I can watch her for a very long time as a creator on KZread, even though I know there will be bigger chances waiting for her.

  • @cmonyoureds
    @cmonyoureds2 жыл бұрын

    I love your decor videos, Alexandra! You are bright, articulate, creative, funny, sweet and entirely relatable and charming. Journalism / home decor - articulate, methodical, yet spontaneous and creative. Thank you for this talk. The world is truly your oyster, kid, keep going for it

  • @jacquettanicolecarter7761
    @jacquettanicolecarter77613 жыл бұрын

    Wow. Thank you for sharing the true story behind the success. Most importantly the trust key resonated with me. Bravo. You deserve all the success and can’t wait to see your next endeavor!

  • @larasoohon207
    @larasoohon2078 ай бұрын

    This was so encouraging and inspirational thank you very much for sharing your story with us Alexander.

  • @karenrob-reads
    @karenrob-reads3 жыл бұрын

    Alexandra Gater is so inspiring! I am very impressed about her journey. Loved watching her from the beginning to seeing where she is now. So very happy for her and what she has accomplished. I love that she gives credit to her team, as well. She is amazing!

  • @Aastha-Sharma
    @Aastha-Sharma3 жыл бұрын

    Such a positive video message ❤much needed.

  • @lovecara1
    @lovecara13 жыл бұрын

    What an amazing and inspirational woman. This has encouraged me to carry on what I am doing and that I too can make it, just when I was really thinking of giving up. Thank you Alexandra,

  • 3 жыл бұрын

    Wow! Absolutely inspired!

  • @stumolo4496
    @stumolo44963 жыл бұрын

    really great I've been watching Alexandra for over a year now

  • @beab1359
    @beab13593 жыл бұрын

    One of the best Ted talks I’ve seen!!

  • @annedenton4623
    @annedenton46232 жыл бұрын

    Made me cry. So proud of you, Alexandra!❤️❤️❤️

  • @RaeleneMaths
    @RaeleneMaths3 жыл бұрын

    Wake up every day and do that thing you know how to do best, and keep doing it. So happy for you! Love your designs, your attitude and your story!

  • @margaritadiaz3779
    @margaritadiaz3779 Жыл бұрын

    I'm a little late to the party, but I'm so happy that I arrived. Bad things sometimes happen for the best of reasons. Alexandra, you are an inspiration.🥰🥰🥰

  • @bippityboppitybusiness
    @bippityboppitybusiness2 жыл бұрын

    I needed this. Thank you ❤️

  • @AngeleMenard
    @AngeleMenard3 жыл бұрын

    Great talk! It's nice to watch you talk about this. I love your KZread channel and I think I love you even more now after hearing your story ❤️

  • @GoogleUser-wx8mw
    @GoogleUser-wx8mw3 жыл бұрын

    Finally! I saw the video of her going to give this talk, but was disappointed that I could not access the actual talk. Way to go, AG!

  • @fadwakhalid8323
    @fadwakhalid83233 жыл бұрын

    such an inspiring talk! I needed it!

  • @bleh329
    @bleh3292 жыл бұрын

    Excellent talk, Alexandra! You are fabulous and have inspired me so much to push forward and succeed. That and your small space designs are a joy. Thank you 😊

  • @debbieidi5517
    @debbieidi55173 жыл бұрын

    Well done, AG! Fabulous!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🌟

  • @Victoria-rw7zt
    @Victoria-rw7zt3 жыл бұрын

    I followed your channel at the beginning and watched your chatelaine videos. I am so happy for you and proud of you on what you have created for yourself!!!

  • @josephinedeck9821
    @josephinedeck98213 жыл бұрын

    Fantastic & motivational talk. You are so young still with a very positive future ahead. And now you are motivating & influencing others. Merry Christmas Alexandra ❤

  • @dawnvickerstaff9148
    @dawnvickerstaff91483 жыл бұрын

    I'm not a millenial but I love Alexandra and her tips. I am a big fan.

  • @aicagarin
    @aicagarin3 жыл бұрын

    Proud of you, AG!❤️ Your fan from PH 🇵🇭 xx

  • @cb7201
    @cb72013 жыл бұрын

    Alexandra, you are one truly bright and inspiring lady, thank you for your awesome videos, they are wonderful!

  • @nicoletaincze7614
    @nicoletaincze76143 жыл бұрын

    Love this speech, Alexandra!!!!!

  • @ginapedraza8792
    @ginapedraza87922 жыл бұрын

    Love Alexandra. Have been following her on YT for a year now and had no idea she had a TedTalk!! She's accomplished so much!!! Her story is inspiring to many young entrepreneurs out there 😊.

  • @shelleyneilon1452
    @shelleyneilon14523 жыл бұрын

    Incredible young woman, following her and love her Channel (sending love from Australia 🇦🇺❤️)

  • @jennadipaolo3666
    @jennadipaolo36663 жыл бұрын

    Wow, definately just binged your channel after watching this. Love your videos!! You have such a great, fun personality and I love your style and tips!! Adding you to my "must watch" list! GO team AG!

  • @Gendisney72
    @Gendisney723 жыл бұрын

    Great job and so inspiring! Had me in tears.

  • @dogsandme9795
    @dogsandme97953 жыл бұрын

    Not just pretty and smart but sooo genuine too. Never miss your vids..now glued to your office makeover episodes. 👏👏👏

  • @lifeofaimee6259
    @lifeofaimee62593 жыл бұрын

    Well done Alexandra..brilliant story...

  • @kathywalsh9312
    @kathywalsh93123 жыл бұрын

    So proud of you Alexandra!!

  • @teamphelly5228
    @teamphelly52283 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much Alexandra. I am currently traveling a similar path and its so nice to hear word of encouragement from someone I watch now almost on the daily. Great talk!

  • @christabellll

    @christabellll

    3 жыл бұрын

    I hope everything works out for you.

  • @beatrizc.martin7706
    @beatrizc.martin77063 жыл бұрын

    You are awesome Alexandra!

  • @adelvoros3249
    @adelvoros32493 жыл бұрын

    Wow, my respect for her just multiplied a hundred times. She’s the prototype of millennial success, isn’t she? I feel so proud of her.

  • @jojocatattack
    @jojocatattack3 жыл бұрын

    This is a wonderful and inspiring talk. Thank you Alexandra.

  • @paintingmonkey
    @paintingmonkey3 жыл бұрын

    Inspiring and emotionally brave

  • @KimmieJ1920
    @KimmieJ1920 Жыл бұрын

    This is right on time. This exact thing happened to me last Thursday.

  • @madibe53
    @madibe533 жыл бұрын

    Great Ted Talk, Alexandra! I enjoy your videos, they're fun to watch, and I've learned a lot! Your career is flying high! Good luck and have fun!

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