KATY’ S PICTURE-PERFECT CAREER MOVE!
At just 22, Katy Gettings has already gone from apprentice to awardwinner, creative team leader and now boss of her very own business!
And it all started with a decision to skip university and head straight into the world of work.
After college, Katy joined Middlesbrough-based digital agency Surge as an apprentice, learning the ropes of photography, videography, content creation and marketing.
She quickly proved she had an eye for success, picking up an Apprentice of the Year award along the way.
Next stop was Stockton’ s Colewood Digital, where Katy helped introduce photography and videography as a brand-new service, eventually leading the department. But her biggest career move was still to come.
Facing uncertainty about her future, Katy decided to take control of her future by launching her own business, Katy Does Media, in 2026.
Suddenly, she wasn ' t just the person behind the camera. She was responsible for finding customers, managing money, marketing her services and running the whole show!
Today, Katy creates eye-catching photos, videos and social media content for businesses, charities and individuals across the region. She ' s also a corporate partner of Teesside Hospice and Age UK Teesside, using her creative talents to support two important local charities.
Her achievements earned her a place among the finalists for Best Newcomer at the 2026 Tees Businesswomen Awards.
And her story proves that a creative passion can become a successful career, even without going to university.
The lesson? You don ' t have to have your entire future mapped out at 16 or 18. Find something you love, be willing to learn and don ' t be afraid to take opportunities.
After all, you never know where your talents might take you!
Focusing on the future – Katy Gettings of Katy Does Media.
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