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

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  • čas přidán 15. 12. 2020
  • In this talk, Alexandra Gater, a Centennial College graduate, shares how losing her dream job sky-rocketed her career as a CZcams influencer. Before starting her CZcams Channel, Alexandra was the Home Editor for Canada’s iconic women’s lifestyle magazine Chatelaine, where she created the successful CZcams 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 CZcams 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

Komentáře • 218

  • @kylietokar1344
    @kylietokar1344 Před 3 lety +228

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

  • @sandrastrobel1254
    @sandrastrobel1254 Před 3 lety +87

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

  • @jeanne_guitton
    @jeanne_guitton Před 3 lety +57

    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
    @lorrainegatzke1048 Před 3 lety +83

    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
    @StephPalallos Před 3 lety +113

    I found Alexandra's channel on CZcams 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 Před 3 lety +6

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

    • @doushi123456
      @doushi123456 Před 3 lety +2

      Well said dear 🌷

    • @jillcropp3262
      @jillcropp3262 Před 3 lety +3

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

    • @Smilebefine
      @Smilebefine Před 3 lety +4

      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 Před 3 lety +3

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

  • @lavane26
    @lavane26 Před 3 lety +10

    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.

  • @AlisonLam
    @AlisonLam Před 3 lety +77

    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 CZcams.... 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!!

  • @kaykitching
    @kaykitching Před 2 lety +8

    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 Před 4 měsíci

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

    • @gordongray9166
      @gordongray9166 Před 2 měsíci

      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.

  • @NoraDesmond897
    @NoraDesmond897 Před 3 lety +42

    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.

  • @WeGetHighWeLetGo
    @WeGetHighWeLetGo Před 3 lety +48

    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!

  • @wendylbranchfield7959

    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!👏👏👏👏👏👏😊✊🏻

  • @adelvoros3249
    @adelvoros3249 Před 3 lety +9

    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.

  • @lovefaith6285
    @lovefaith6285 Před 3 lety +8

    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
    @shannonsolomon8491 Před 3 lety +35

    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!

  • @angelacurran5924
    @angelacurran5924 Před 3 lety +32

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

    • @allieshaw2531
      @allieshaw2531 Před 3 lety +2

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

    • @carolargentina
      @carolargentina Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @togepi2023
    @togepi2023 Před 3 lety +19

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

  • @reddenver
    @reddenver Před 3 lety +5

    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.

  • @ajpompe
    @ajpompe Před 3 lety +5

    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! ❤️

  • @isabelapinto8200
    @isabelapinto8200 Před 11 měsíci +2

    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. ❤

  • @alm1999
    @alm1999 Před 3 lety +8

    Beautiful, inspiring talk! You’re killing it.

  • @dawnvickerstaff9148
    @dawnvickerstaff9148 Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @katiedecker9835
    @katiedecker9835 Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @genbee350
    @genbee350 Před 3 lety +7

    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.

  • @emmamacgregor731
    @emmamacgregor731 Před 2 lety +1

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

  • @oatmealhoney7446
    @oatmealhoney7446 Před 3 lety +2

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

  • @ragnas.3163
    @ragnas.3163 Před 3 lety +3

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

  • @4thaluvofeverything
    @4thaluvofeverything Před 3 lety +4

    Loved this! Great message AG 💗

  • @indirakuriyan9366
    @indirakuriyan9366 Před 2 lety +2

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

  • @sydneykasmar
    @sydneykasmar Před 3 lety +5

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

  • @gabriellemcmanus2650
    @gabriellemcmanus2650 Před 3 lety +2

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

  • @robinrogers5630
    @robinrogers5630 Před 3 lety +2

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

  • @glendac7653
    @glendac7653 Před 3 lety +3

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

  • @mallikaiyer2577
    @mallikaiyer2577 Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @Gendisney72
    @Gendisney72 Před 3 lety

    Great job and so inspiring! Had me in tears.

  • @sezbeee
    @sezbeee Před 3 lety +5

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

  • @victoriaclifton507
    @victoriaclifton507 Před 3 lety +7

    In tears. Love you AG!!

  • @britdeshimummy5934
    @britdeshimummy5934 Před 3 lety +33

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

  • @johnniebasilan3435
    @johnniebasilan3435 Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @letitiasullivan4438
    @letitiasullivan4438 Před 3 lety +8

    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!

  • @dulcegrace1188
    @dulcegrace1188 Před 3 lety

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

  • @Aastha-Sharma
    @Aastha-Sharma Před 3 lety +3

    Such a positive video message ❤much needed.

  • @realmofthesenses
    @realmofthesenses Před rokem

    Not a millennial, but a middle aged renter of a small appartment. Recently I "discovered" Alexandra Gater's affordable and creative make overs on YT. Lovely story how she got where she is.

  • @TheKnittedRaven
    @TheKnittedRaven Před 3 lety +1

    Your resilience and determination is inspiring! Well done!

  • @adapatricialopez1769
    @adapatricialopez1769 Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @saniaayushi5764
    @saniaayushi5764 Před 3 lety +1

    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.

  • @AngeleMenard
    @AngeleMenard Před 3 lety +1

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

  •  Před 3 lety +4

    Wow! Absolutely inspired!

  • @A13Nair
    @A13Nair Před 3 lety +6

    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!💐💐🌟🌟

  • @healingwithmel
    @healingwithmel Před 3 lety +3

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

  • @tamaramainardi9068
    @tamaramainardi9068 Před 3 lety +1

    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!

  • @catherinemitchell8461
    @catherinemitchell8461 Před 3 lety +5

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

  • @luzperras728
    @luzperras728 Před 3 lety +7

    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!

  • @beab1359
    @beab1359 Před 3 lety +3

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

  • @jacquettanicolecarter7761

    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!

  • @cb7201
    @cb7201 Před 3 lety

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

  • @patbailey-persad6516
    @patbailey-persad6516 Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @larasoohon207
    @larasoohon207 Před 8 měsíci

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

  • @kimberleywinterbauer5286
    @kimberleywinterbauer5286 Před 3 lety +21

    Wow, that was an amazing Ted talk by an incredibly talented Alexandra. Way to go.

  • @oliviagiles
    @oliviagiles Před 3 lety +3

    YOU ARE AMAZING...yes I yelled that

  • @musicbymer
    @musicbymer Před 2 lety

    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.

  • @paintingmonkey
    @paintingmonkey Před 3 lety +6

    Inspiring and emotionally brave

  • @grapes109
    @grapes109 Před 3 lety

    Very inspiring! Thank you for sharing your story, I'm in a similar situation currently and covid doesn't help but I'm optimistic it will work out

  • @aicagarin
    @aicagarin Před 3 lety +6

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

  • @tamannahayderstudio
    @tamannahayderstudio Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @christyxandrick5168
    @christyxandrick5168 Před 2 lety

    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!!! 🥰

  • @stumolo4496
    @stumolo4496 Před 3 lety +2

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

  • @ToriBissell
    @ToriBissell Před 3 lety +1

    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.

  • @arlinegeorge6967
    @arlinegeorge6967 Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @jennadipaolo3666
    @jennadipaolo3666 Před 3 lety

    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!

  • @annedenton4623
    @annedenton4623 Před 2 lety

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

  • @haseena1001
    @haseena1001 Před 3 lety +1

    An amazing talk Alexandra. Bravo! 🎊🥳👏🏾👑💖

  • @RaeleneMaths
    @RaeleneMaths Před 3 lety

    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!

  • @sabrinaarellano1489
    @sabrinaarellano1489 Před 3 lety +6

    TEAM AG!!! Love from South Texas! 💖

  • @fadwakhalid8323
    @fadwakhalid8323 Před 3 lety +1

    such an inspiring talk! I needed it!

  • @gabrielasimmons2401
    @gabrielasimmons2401 Před 3 lety +1

    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 CZcams, even though I know there will be bigger chances waiting for her.

  • @marvymaxee
    @marvymaxee Před 3 lety +1

    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!!

  • @carolargentina
    @carolargentina Před 3 lety +2

    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 !

  • @MonicaM1111
    @MonicaM1111 Před 3 lety +3

    So inspiring ❤️❤️❤️

  • @nicoletaincze7614
    @nicoletaincze7614 Před 3 lety +1

    Love this speech, Alexandra!!!!!

  • @josephinedeck9821
    @josephinedeck9821 Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @debbieidi5517
    @debbieidi5517 Před 3 lety +1

    Well done, AG! Fabulous!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🌟

  • @lovecara1
    @lovecara1 Před 3 lety +2

    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,

  • @cleovivas
    @cleovivas Před 3 lety +2

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

  • @madibe53
    @madibe53 Před 3 lety

    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!

  • @shelleyneilon1452
    @shelleyneilon1452 Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @jennplans3927
    @jennplans3927 Před 3 lety +3

    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!

  • @Victoria-rw7zt
    @Victoria-rw7zt Před 3 lety +1

    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!!!

  • @bippityboppitybusiness

    I needed this. Thank you ❤️

  • @cmonyoureds
    @cmonyoureds Před 2 lety

    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

  • @Leewn
    @Leewn Před 3 lety +2

    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!

  • @jojocatattack
    @jojocatattack Před 3 lety

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

  • @kathywalsh9312
    @kathywalsh9312 Před 3 lety +1

    So proud of you Alexandra!!

  • @allyfiorido902
    @allyfiorido902 Před 3 lety +3

    Congrats Alexandra!

  • @Beruthiel45
    @Beruthiel45 Před 3 lety +4

    Great talk Alexandra, well done. 👍😊

  • @bleh329
    @bleh329 Před 2 lety

    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 😊

  • @kirstenmc68
    @kirstenmc68 Před 3 lety +4

    You go girl!! Woohooohh!

  • @glopez2007
    @glopez2007 Před 3 lety +10

    Wow an AG fan here I knew youd be good but you were great!

  • @michellemeyer1214
    @michellemeyer1214 Před 3 lety +2

    And you look beautiful and nice job on the speech! ❤️

  • @Alaskan7Redhead
    @Alaskan7Redhead Před 3 lety +3

    Proud of you!

  • @suebrown7548
    @suebrown7548 Před 3 lety +2

    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!