Are you a young graphic designer in Gauteng looking for your big break? The Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation (GDSACR) is looking for 10 emerging graphic designers to join its Graphic Design Incubation Programme, running from 2 to 6 November 2026.
Applications close on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, at 16:00, so there’s less than a week to get your portfolio together and apply.
Graphic Design Incubation Programme At A Glance
- Who’s running it: Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation
- Places available: 10
- Programme dates: Monday, 2 November to Friday, 6 November 2026
- Daily hours: 10:00 to 14:00
- Closing date: Wednesday, 28 October 2026, at 16:00
- How to apply: by email to [email protected]
Who Can Apply?
To be considered, you must:
- be a graphic designer
- provide a graphic design portfolio with images of your work
- be aged 18 to 35
- be able to attend Monday to Friday, from 10:00 to 14:00, for the full programme
- be able to start immediately
- be a Gauteng resident.
The department says all other information will be shared with successful applicants.
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How To Apply
- Put together your portfolio. Include images of your graphic design work.
- Write a short email introducing yourself. Include your full name, age, area of residence in Gauteng and contact number.
- Confirm that you meet the requirements, including that you can attend every day from 2 to 6 November, from 10:00 to 14:00.
- Send your application to [email protected] before 16:00 on Wednesday, 28 October 2026.
Tips For A Strong Portfolio
With only 10 places available, your portfolio needs to stand out. Here’s how to make it count:
- Quality over quantity. Choose your 8 to 12 strongest pieces rather than everything you’ve ever made.
- Show your range. Include different types of work, such as logos and branding, posters, social media graphics, packaging, illustration and layouts.
- Tell the story. Add a line or two about each project: the brief, your role and the tools you used.
- Include real-world work if you have it, such as projects for local businesses, churches, schools, events or community organisations. Personal and practice projects count too.
- Keep it easy to view. A single, well-organised PDF or a link to an online portfolio (such as Behance, Dribbble or a personal website) works better than many separate attachments.
- Watch the file size. Large attachments may not go through. Compress images or share a download link.
- Proofread everything. Spelling mistakes in a design portfolio stand out.
- Use a clear subject line, such as “Graphic Design Incubation Programme Application: [Your Name]”.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Gauteng’s creative industries, from advertising and media to fashion, music and events, are a growing source of work for young people. Incubation programmes like this give emerging designers a chance to sharpen their skills, build confidence and connect with the creative sector.
With youth unemployment at 47,4% nationally (Stats SA, second quarter of 2026), opportunities that help young creatives turn their talent into a career are especially valuable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Graphic Design Incubation Programme?
It’s a programme run by the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation for 10 emerging graphic designers, taking place from 2 to 6 November 2026.
Who Can Apply For The Graphic Design Incubation Programme?
Graphic designers aged 18 to 35 who live in Gauteng, have a portfolio of work and can attend from 10:00 to 14:00, Monday to Friday, for the full programme.
How Do I Apply?
Email your application and portfolio to [email protected].
When Do Applications Close?
Applications close on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, at 16:00.
Do I Need A Qualification In Graphic Design?
The requirements don’t mention a formal qualification. You do need to be a graphic designer and submit a portfolio of your work.
Is The Programme Paid?
The department hasn’t published details on stipends, venue or transport. It says all other information will be shared with successful applicants.
