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Meet the startGBC #WhyNotMe January 2026 Entrepreneur Spotlight: Rachel Ott, Creative Director, Varga Girl Design
As we kick off a bright new year, it's always great to reflect on our past and how it's helped shape us.
So, as we enter 2026, let's celebrate an amazing alumni entrepreneur whose journey with George Brown goes all the way back to 1989! The incredible Rachel Ott honed her skills in the design industry and then, 25 years ago in 2001, launched Varga Girl Design and has never looked back! So, let's celebrate Rachel's 25 years in business and the impact she has had on others. Here's to the next 25!
About Rachel
Rachel is the founder and creative director of Varga Girl Design. After studying at George Brown’s School of Design and working in studios and agencies, Rachel realized she wanted more creative freedom and better client relationships — so in 2001, Rachel launched her own studio and hasn’t looked back since.
Academic Background
George Brown Graphic Design Diploma, 1989
What made you want to become an entrepreneur?
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial streak—I’d rather work 18 hours for myself than eight for someone else.
Why did you create your business?
In 2001, when the dot-com bubble burst and prompted us to transition to remote work, I took it as my cue to build my own studio—and I’ve been “working until it’s loved” for my clients ever since.
What successes have you enjoyed so far with building your company?
I’ve been fortunate enough to build Varga Girl Design into a busy, referral-driven studio, where most clients now come to me, rather than the other way around. I’ve been recognized as a top Canadian B2B design firm on Clutch, and in recent years, I’ve won several international design awards for branding, packaging, and marketing work. The success I’m proudest of, though, is the long-term relationships: clients who’ve trusted me for years come back with new projects year after year.
What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Be brave enough to start, stubborn enough to keep going, and honest enough to trust your gut.
Any organisations or learning resources you would recommend?
Join a group like BNI. Networking is key, and you'll be surrounded by entrepreneurs who've already navigated the same struggles and can offer advice and support
Any books or podcasts you would recommend?
I’m not really a business-book person—I learn more from real projects, mentors, and conversations with other entrepreneurs than from reading. I tend to get my “book equivalent” through podcasts, courses, and lived experience rather than traditional reading.
I absolutely recommend the following podcast! https://www.unsureentrepreneur.com
Anything else you would like to share?
Don’t rush it. Learn as much as you can on someone else’s dime first, then take the leap. When you do, trust your gut (it’s almost always right), don’t discount yourself out of fear, and remember that even the most successful people have someone out there who thinks they’re a moron—so don’t let one bad experience define you. Also: get a hobby and a dog. Burnout is real.
Website and Socials
Website: https://www.vargagirldesign.com
LinkedIn Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/varga-girl-design
LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelott