The Big Portfolio Review. Bringing industry legends and fresh creative talent together.

That’s a wrap on the inaugural The Big Portfolio Review, and honestly, what a day.

It feels like an absolute age since the initial spark of an idea hit us – “Wouldn’t it be cool if we gathered up a posse of like-minded creative folk, got in a room, and shared a bit of love and knowledge to give the next generation a proper leg up?”

Because let’s be frank; breaking into the creative industries right now is tough. Really tough. For aspiring creatives trying to transition from a studio lecture to the fast-paced reality of agency life, the gap can feel less like a step and more like a canyon. Portfolio advice, and what agencies and other creative businesses look for when they’re hiring, can be instrumental in building confidence.

Which is where we come in. No fluff, no egos, just honest and constructive feedback from people who live and breathe this stuff every day.

So, posse duly gathered, a partnership with the brilliant team at the University of Staffordshire locked in, and a host of eager students rounded up, TBPR was born.

And what an amazing, enthusing, and deeply rewarding experience it turned out to be.

 

Before looking forward, we’ve got to chuck out some massive thank-yous, every single one is thoroughly deserved.

First up, the reviewers. When we first floated this mad idea, absolutely everyone we approached agreed to get involved. Not only did they say yes, but they showed up with massive energy, open minds, and brilliant insights. Adam Richardson, Sylvina Johnson, Dean Brindley, Kate Khalifa, Matt Hackney, Ryan Savage, Liv Lucie, Adam Taylor, Clare Jennings, David Lyttleton, and Paul McCaffrey – you’re all mega and lovely humans.

Then there’s the fantastic team at Staffs Uni. Natalie Weatherer, Marc Williams, and the indefatigable careers team. A special shout-out to Richard Mellor for virtually biting our hands off at the mere spark of the idea, and to all the supportive course leaders who backed us from day one and pushed their students to step up to the plate.

Behind the scenes, the Thrivers were absolute legends, ensuring the whole ship ran smoothly whilst getting stuck into the portfolio reviews.

But the biggest, loudest applause must go to the students. Stepping up to have your hard work critiqued by a room full of industry professionals takes a lot of guts. We saw some incredibly strong, commercially disciplined, and beautifully crafted work across the board. The level of talent on display was inspiring, and we genuinely cannot wait to see you unleash it on the world.

So, what’s next?

We didn’t design The Big Portfolio Review to be a one-hit-wonder. The energy in that room proved that there is a massive hunger for real, raw, constructive creative connection. Agencies want to find fresh talent, and students need a bridge to get there.

Which means… The Big Portfolio Review could be coming to a Uni near you soon.

Spoiler alert: it definitely is.

The dust is barely settling on the first one, but plans are already in motion. The next TBPR location and date will be revealed very soon.

If you’re a university looking to give your creative students a massive head start, an industry professional wanting to join the posse and give something back, or a student ready to show us what you’ve got… you’re going to want in on this.

Watch this space. We’re just getting started.