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Designing Destiny: A Creative Portfolio Career

Ever wondered what it’s like to turn your artistic flair into a career?

Meet Destiny – Digital Media and Graphic Designer at Brella Projects,  who swapped working in a warehouse for the world of creativity, proving that passion, persistence and talent can open doors.

A career in design doesn’t have to follow a single path—many creatives build portfolio careers, combining multiple roles, projects, and side hustles to shape their own unique journey.

Whether freelancing, working in-house, or running a business, designers often juggle different gigs to develop their skills, expand their networks, and explore new creative challenges. From graphic design to illustration and marketing, the versatility of this industry means there’s always room to grow, pivot, and carve out a career that truly fits your passions and strengths.

From crafting eye-catching visuals to working flexibly on exciting projects, Destiny’s career is all about bringing ideas to life for Brella Projects – the team behind FutureForce® Careers Hub, Smart Waikato Trust and Waikato Engineering Careers Association.

Brella Projects works with regions, employers, educators and communities to deliver engaging, people focused projects with positive outcomes for economic and social prosperity.

Read on to discover the skills, challenges, and insider tips on making it in the dynamic design industry!

Destiny Iraia

Digital Marketer and Graphic Designer

Destiny’s Career Advice

“To thrive as a designer, you need to be someone who doesn’t rely on structure or on being told what to do. This role involves being creative, figuring things out, using initiative, and finding your own direction. Essentially it is all about making something out of nothing.”

A chat with Destiny about her role

What does being a Digital Media and Graphic Designer involve?

My role is highly diverse but centres around designing, promoting and marketing digital media products. I create a range of content and materials for multiple businesses, and see this through from concept to completion. My position is flexible with the option to work hours around my availability and utilise my creative design skills.

How did you find a job as a Digital Media and Graphic Designer?

I found this job listed on Seek. At the time I was looking to leave my job working in a warehouse to pursue my passion for design. I wanted to grow my skill base as I didn’t have much experience and this was a great opportunity to start my career in the digital media space.

What qualifications are needed for a career in the creative industry?

I did a one-year online course through Yoobee, studying a Certificate in Creative Media. Within this course there were four different areas of design we focused on; website development, film making, graphic design and animation. There are also many other design qualifications you can get through The University of Waikato and Wintec (see link to sector page).

What digital media skills have you learnt?
In a design career you gain experience in many platforms such as, Adobe software, Canva and Microsoft applications. I have also learnt other office skills like how to use a printer, send emails, set up meetings, and how to use cameras and mics.
What interested you in a career in Digital Media and Graphic Design?

Growing up I always enjoyed design as it was a space for me to be free. In high school, I gravitated toward creative subjects like art, which allowed me to explore that passion further. I also developed a strong interest in architecture—it was this that truly ignited my creativity and deepened my fascination with design.

Why do you love working as a digital media and graphic designer?

This role is so diverse and I find no two days are the same. I am so lucky to be able to work in a role where I get to do what I love and be creative.

What challenges have you had to overcome in the workforce?
When leaving high school, I was looking at pursuing rugby as this is a passion of mine, but after multiple injuries I quickly realised I needed to decide what my career would look like. Having not studied I felt was an initial set back, but I stuck to my guns and did a small course to gain design knowledge then worked to prove myself.
What interpersonal skills have you learnt in the workforce?
I have worked with other business professionals throughout my time at Brella and this has taught me skills like how to liaise with clients, and booking appointments. Within my workplace I have also learnt how to collaborate with team members on projects and how to organise in house meetings.

Destiny Iraia

Former Hamilton Girls’
High Student

Destiny’s Top Tips

What sort of person suits a position in design?
To thrive as a designer, you need to be someone who doesn’t rely on structure or on being told what to do. This role involves being creative, figuring things out, using initiative, and finding your own direction. Essentially it is all about making something out of nothing.
What would you tell someone wanting to do a career in design?
Work on your own projects in your own time, try to make art your hobby. It is key to keep your mind in a creative space and work to build a solid portfolio.
Which school subjects are important to take for design careers?
The most important is anything creative like art, or design and visual communication. Computer studies is also useful. Other good subjects to take are computer sciences and English as it is good to have a good vocabulary for building posters or social media posts.
What do you wish you knew before leaving school?
Often people say you should do what you love, which is good to some extent. I think though a better approach is to analyse “what am I good at” and pursue a career in this area. These two things may not always be the same but doing what you are good at will lead to success.
What is your best advice to someone starting out?
Be open to change and adaptable as not every workplace is the same. Take time to work out your personal design style and how you can succeed, while taking the time to figure out how your co-workers operate also.
What future pathways can you take in the creative industry?
Design is a broad field and there are many different roles you can move into. Alongside these design roles there is potential to move into marketing positions working in social media, for example. There is also always space to move into managerial or entrepreneurship positions where you are running a team, or working for yourself. The pathways are endless making this a highly versatile industry to be a part of.

Destiny’s Journey with Brella Projects

“My experience at Brella Projects has been incredibly rewarding. It’s a place where I’ve not only grown professionally but personally as well. Having that kind of support has made a meaningful difference, and I’m genuinely grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had.”

About Brella Projects

Brella Projects works with regions, employers, educators and communities to deliver engaging, people focused projects with positive outcomes for economic and social prosperity.

We specialise in connecting young people and employers through:

  • Experiential initiatives

  • Facilitation and brokering

  • Digital media and events

  • Capability building

Brella also specialise in marketing strategy, brand development, graphic design and web development for small businesses.

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Grab a Snapshot of Destiny’s Career Profile