KATE POPIEL

What brought you to Humber and your program of study?

Humber's program stood out to me because it wasn't just about the business side of fashion or the creative side—it was the perfect mix of both. I knew I needed a strong foundation in marketing, finance, and operations, but I also wanted to nurture my creative vision and understanding of design. Humber's curriculum offered that ideal balance.

Beyond the coursework, Toronto itself was a huge draw. This city has such a vibrant fashion scene, from independent boutiques and designers to major events like Toronto Fashion Week. Being immersed in that environment, with opportunities to connect with industry professionals and experience the energy firsthand, was a huge part of the appeal.

Humber's focus on practical learning sealed the deal. They emphasized real-world projects, internships, and industry collaborations, which gave me the confidence that I wouldn't just be learning theory, but actually gaining the skills and experience to hit the ground running after graduation.

What was your favourite Humber memory or experience?

Some of my favourite experiences were collaborating on projects with like-minded, creative individuals who shared my passion for the industry. I ended up meeting some of the best friends I've ever had.

The hands-on learning and exposure to real-world fashion business scenarios gave me a strong foundation for my career. I did my internship with Sid Neigum, which opened a lot of doors and took me backstage at Toronto Fashion Week.

What was Humber's greatest impact on your personal and professional life?

Humber provided a critical bridge between my passion for entrepreneurship and the practical realities of building a business. It wasn't just about theoretical knowledge; it was about gaining actionable skills. The confidence I developed wasn't just a fleeting feeling; it was a deep-seated belief in my ability to execute my vision. That confidence, combined with the practical skills I acquired, has been instrumental in every step of my journey, from launching What's the Deal? to navigating the complexities of scaling a startup.

What are you up to now?

I'm the CEO and co-founder of What's the Deal?, a tech startup leveraging cutting-edge technology to address the challenges of restaurant downtime. Our real-time platform seamlessly connects diners with restaurants, creating a win-win scenario. We've focused on building a user-friendly experience that's both efficient and engaging, which is reflected in our rapid growth. Ultimately, I'm passionate about supporting local businesses and creating innovative solutions that enhance the dining experience for everyone.

What else do you want to share (e.g. Memorable trip; If you had a superpower; Favourite food or coffee shop; Personal and professional interests; Awards and recognition; Other milestones)?

If you had a superpower: The ability to pause time—there’s never enough of it!
Favourite food: Favorite food? Oh, that's impossible! With my job, I basically get paid to eat my way through the city's best restaurants. It's a tough gig, but someone's gotta do it! Seriously though, I'm constantly discovering new favourites, so I couldn't possibly choose just one.
Awards/Recognition: 500 Global graduate and was featured on Slice TV.