Mentorship, impact and growth: The Portfolio Project’s ongoing creative mission

The Portfolio Project, a not-for-profit program launched to help young people with disabilities pursue careers in the creative industries, has shared an update on its core program activity since 2022 – highlighting a continued commitment to design, advertising and mentorship opportunities for neurodiverse and underrepresented young creatives across Australia.

Co-founded by Duncan Mah (left) and Richard Kahotea (right), the grassroots initiative has run a series of technical and design workshops through Youth Support Services, while also providing live, ongoing creative guidance and remote mentorship. Participants have received hands-on support across real-world projects – from advertising portfolio entries and educational briefs to website design and concept development – all with the goal of building practical skills and industry access.

In addition to mentoring, The Portfolio Project has also engaged diverse job seekers on real freelance projects ranging from motion graphics to web design, helping them build both experience and networks within the creative sector.

18 months after launching its social enterprise Clem Designs 3rd 2016, Mah and Kahotea have raised over $2000 for their chosen children’s charity.

While the organisation has kept a relatively low media profile, Mah says the team is proud of the direction and impact of the program: “We’re constantly evolving and learning how to make our inclusivity efforts more meaningful.”

Mah also notes that the increasing normalisation of online mentorship and remote collaboration has been a major enabler: “It’s opened up so many more opportunities to connect with aspiring creatives from different backgrounds.”

Looking ahead, The Portfolio Project plans to launch new premium offerings in the near future.

For more information or to get involved, visit: theportfolioprojectprogram.com

Pictured (L-R): Duncan Mah and Richard Kahotea, Co-Founders, The Portfolio Project