When Kate Telekhova first arrived in Canada from Russia at 18, her goal was to build a life and career in a country that felt right for her both personally and professionally. Enrolling at NC in 2013, she began studying in the Bachelor of Applied Business (Hospitality) program before transferring into the Honours Bachelor of Business Administration (International Commerce and Global Development) program.
That decision marked the beginning of a journey that would eventually lead her to build a community of more than one million social media followers and collaborate with global brands, all while teaching others how to create high-quality video content using the technology already at their fingertips.
Finding her path during at NC
Telekhova’s interest in marketing and communications developed during her time in the Honours Bachelor of Business Administration (International Commerce and Global Development) program while she completed an internship at Airbus Helicopters.
She was inspired to continue building that foundation through roles in marketing and graphic design at NC’s Productivity Innovation Lab (PiLab).
“Those early experiences showed me how powerful social media and branding can be, and looking back, NC really shaped the start of my career,” said Telekhova. “The internship at Airbus Helicopters was a huge turning point for me, and working with NC’s PiLab gave me space to experiment with marketing, design, and creative work in a very hands-on way.”
Her semester studying abroad while at NC also pushed her to grow in new ways.
“The exchange I did in Málaga was incredibly impactful,” she said. “It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow, not just professionally but as a person.”
Beyond academics, it was the strong sense of community she experienced at NC, particularly as an international student, that left a lasting impression on Telekhova.
“I had the most amazing time at NC, and I still tell people that those four and a half years, when I had just arrived in Canada and was studying at the College, were some of the best years of my life,” she said.
“Of course, I’m incredibly grateful for the education I received, but what really made NC special was the level of support, especially for international students,” she added. “It was something I hadn’t experienced anywhere else. There were events happening almost every week to help students make friends, feel part of a community, improve their language skills, discover passions, and find jobs. That sense of belonging made such a big difference.”
Overall, Telekhova feels that NC gave her so much more than a degree. It gave her confidence, community, and opportunities that shaped her life.
From side hustle to full-time content creator
After graduating, Telekhova started her career in marketing while building a side hustle in videography, filming weddings, events and promotional videos for businesses. When the pandemic interrupted in-person client work, she continued working remotely in her marketing role and began sharing her video work and knowledge on social media.
What started as a creative outlet quickly turned into something bigger. About a year and a half later, she was able to leave her full-time job and pursue social media full-time.
Today, she creates educational content focused on smartphone videography and tech, teaching her online community of over one million how to create high-quality videos both online and through live workshops. She has also collaborated with big-name brands such as Apple, Insta360, Proctor & Gamble (P&G), Coca-Cola, Meta and DJI.
Building a brand rooted in authenticity
Building a personal brand was not something Telekhova initially set out to do from the start, it was about being authentic and following a passion that brought her joy.
“To be completely honest, I didn’t think about personal branding at all in the beginning,” she said. “I was self-taught, figuring things out as I went, and creating because it genuinely made me happy.”
She realized that if she wanted to sustain this career long-term, she had to show up authentically herself online.
“Sharing my real process, including the mistakes, made the work sustainable and relatable, and I think that’s why people connect to it,” said Telekhova. “It shows that this path isn’t reserved for a certain background or personality. Anyone can build something meaningful if they’re willing to learn and stay consistent.”
Telekhova’s curiosity and her willingness to experiment with new ideas and explore new skills have been key factors in shaping her growth.
“What truly shaped my path was my mindset,” said Telekhova. “I’ve always believed that it doesn’t hurt to try. I experimented with many different things, some didn’t work out, some I realized I didn’t enjoy, but through that process I discovered something I would do even if I wasn’t paid for it. That’s how I found my place in marketing, social media, and helping others build their brands, even though I never saw myself doing it, I just gave it a chance.”
Advice for students
For students considering a career in marketing, media or content creation, Telekhova’s advice is to be persistent, take action and make the most of the many opportunities NC has to offer.
“My biggest advice is to truly apply yourself,” she said. “Niagara College offers so many extracurricular opportunities – volunteering, events, job fairs, networking opportunities, and I honestly haven’t seen that level of support anywhere else. Show up. Get involved. Meet people.”
Her motto has always been: “Do it anyway.” Show up, raise your hand, and put in the extra effort.
“I know how uncomfortable that can feel,” said Telekhova. “I was that person, moving to a new country at 18, with no family or friends, very introverted, and learning in a second language.”
“I was never the most naturally talented person in the room, but I am persistent and hardworking, and that matters more than people realize.”
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