The creative industry in Africa is about to experience a transformative shift with the launch of HerFolio, a groundbreaking platform introduced by Ogilvy Africa during Nairobi Design Week.
This first-of-its-kind initiative is designed to bridge the gender gap in creative opportunities by offering female artists, designers, musicians, and other creatives a dedicated space to showcase their work and connect with industry leaders.
Studies indicate that 75% of female creatives face limited career opportunities compared to their male counterparts, with an even higher percentage struggling to secure high-paying projects—not due to a lack of talent, but because existing industry structures fail to support them. HerFolio seeks to change this by offering an accessible, professional platform where female creatives can present their portfolios through high-resolution videos, images, and audio files.
Beyond being a showcase, HerFolio will function as a vital resource for The Ogilvy Africa Network and other organizations looking to discover and engage diverse talent. Operating across 39 Sub-Saharan African countries, this platform will facilitate cross-border collaborations, expand market reach, and ensure greater representation of female creatives in the industry.
“Africa is home to an abundance of creative female talent, but the opportunities remain scarce,” stated Delna Sethna, Chief Creative Officer at Ogilvy Africa. “With HerFolio, we’re addressing this disparity by offering a space where female creatives can gain the recognition and career advancement they deserve. Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t—and we’re here to change that.”
Nairobi Design Week Founder & Design Director Adrian Jankowiak echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in design. “At Nairobi Design Week, we are dedicated to amplifying diverse voices and creating an ecosystem where every creative has the chance to thrive. Our collaboration with Ogilvy Africa this year perfectly aligns with our mission to foster an inclusive design landscape.”
As part of the launch, Delna Sethna announced three exclusive internship opportunities within The Ogilvy Africa Network for promising female creatives. Candidates will be selected based on portfolios submitted to HerFolio, with evaluations conducted throughout Nairobi Design Week and winners announced post-event.
Speaking on the long-term vision of the platform, Vikas Mehta, CEO of Ogilvy Africa SSA, remarked, “This collaboration with Nairobi Design Week is a testament to our commitment to reshaping Africa’s creative landscape. HerFolio isn’t just a platform—it’s a movement, designed to unlock limitless potential for female creatives across the continent.”
Female creatives looking to elevate their careers can now register on HerFolio to showcase their portfolios, connect with brands, and gain access to job opportunities and collaborative projects.
Meanwhile, Nairobi Design Week, running from March 9th to March 16th, continues to spotlight innovative works from designers across Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, and beyond. Featuring interactive installations and workshops that blend tradition with modernity, the event celebrates the rich synergy between heritage and contemporary creativity.
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With the launch of HerFolio, the future of Africa’s creative industry is looking more inclusive than ever.
