Profiles of Tenacity: Mahek Charania

Mahek Charania is a third year advertising major with a certificate in new media from Karimnagar, India. Charania serves as a digital media specialist for Talking Dog Agency, a social media assistant for the Georgia Center for Continuing Education and Hotel and an NMIXpert mentor for New Media Students.

Why did you choose your major? 

I’ve always been fascinated by how stories connect people across cultures. Advertising felt like the perfect intersection of creativity, psychology and strategy where I could use media to inspire, educate and build communities. Moving from India to the U.S. strengthened that drive, as I learned to navigate different perspectives and realized how powerful inclusive storytelling can be.

What does tenacity mean to you? 

To me, tenacity is the ability to keep showing up with curiosity, resilience and grace, especially when things feel uncertain. It’s the quiet strength behind late nights balancing school, work and creative projects, and the belief that growth comes from persistence, not perfection.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to other Grady students? 

Say yes to opportunities that scare you a little. Whether it’s applying for a club, presenting a campaign idea or traveling abroad, those experiences will shape your confidence more than any class alone. Grady is full of doors, and tenacity is about walking through them.

What motivates you? 

I’m motivated by the idea of impact, knowing that the work I create can make someone feel seen, understood or inspired. Every project, whether for a client or a class, feels like a chance to tell a meaningful story that bridges perspectives. I get excited about bringing my ideas to life, but I’m just as eager to see what others contribute, building and refining the concept together until it becomes something greater.

What or who has had the biggest impact on your life? 

Talking Dog Agency has had the biggest impact on my time at UGA. I applied during my freshman year knowing very little about the industry or agency life. I hadn’t even been accepted into Grady yet, but I knew it would help me discover where my strengths lie. Leading campaigns for clients like The Home Depot and LG under the guidance of agencies like BBDO and Ammunition taught me what collaboration, accountability and creativity truly look like. It’s where I found mentors, lifelong friends and a real sense of purpose in this field. The experience has been deeply career-affirming, helping me solidify both my interests and confidence in the path I’m pursuing.

What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year? 

My biggest accomplishment this past year was being selected to represent UGA at the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity in France. It was a dream come true to learn from global industry leaders, explore diverse cultural perspectives in advertising, and bring that inspiration back to my work at UGA. The experience played a huge role in my holistic growth, both creatively and personally, and reaffirmed my passion for pursuing a global career in advertising.

What is your favorite place on campus and why? 

My most recent favorite place has been the law library. This answer tends to change with seasons and semesters, but there’s something about the law library that instantly makes me feel productive. Maybe it’s all the big, intimidating books. It has an energy that helps me focus and get into the right headspace to work.

What advice would you give to your future self? 

Don’t rush to have it all figured out. Every step, even the uncertain ones, is part of the process. Trust that your voice, perspective and background have a place here, and that you’ll grow into every opportunity meant for you. Aim high, but always keep your feet on the ground.

Editor: Anyi Morfaw, abm40431@uga.edu