Women In Animation Launches Online Portfolio Review Program, Applications Now Open

Women in Animation (WIA) has announced a new professional development initiative aimed at addressing one of the most frequently requested resources from its membership: direct portfolio feedback from industry recruiters and creatives.

The nonprofit advocacy organization has opened applications for WIA Portfolio Reviews, a virtual series that connects early-career women and non-binary professionals with established leaders working across animation, visual effects, and game development. According to WIA, the program was developed in response to findings from a recent global member survey, which identified portfolio reviews as a top need for artists entering the industry.

The inaugural session is scheduled for February 24 and will be led by Matt Roberts, senior artistic recruiter at Walt Disney Animation Studios. The first review will prioritize portfolios in character animation, story, and visual development, with future sessions expected to expand into other disciplines and feature reviewers from a diverse range of studios.

In a release announcing the initiative, WIA president Marge Dean emphasized that the program is intended to serve both emerging talent and established industry partners:

This new initiative is more than a service; it’s a supportive ecosystem. For our members, it’s a direct path to growth, and for our partners, it’s a window to the talent of tomorrow. We want to thank Disney for their continued support, and I look forward to this becoming a vital part of how we fulfill our mission to support women and nonbinary professionals.

The Portfolio Reviews program has been designed as a live virtual event. Here’s how WIA described the process:

• WIA members can register to participate in virtual review sessions, during which industry professionals will provide direct, actionable feedback on selected portfolios.
• Creator-level+ members who would like to have their portfolios reviewed will apply to have them live-reviewed during the sessions.
• Maker-level+ members will be able to attend and ask questions during the virtual session.
• Reviewers will choose 5-6 portfolios to review live during the event.

The application window is now open and will close on January 27. WIA has indicated that multiple portfolio review events will be held throughout the year, though how frequently has not yet been determined.

Founded to advance gender equity in animation, WIA describes the initiative as part of its broader mission to reduce structural barriers to entry and advancement in the industry by increasing access to resources, mentorship, and professional opportunities.

For more information about the WIA Portfolio Reviews initiative, click HERE.