So, you’ve decided to start freelancing. You’ve learned a skill, signed up on Upwork or Fiverr, and you’re ready to start making money. But there’s one small problem—you don’t have a portfolio.
And now, clients are asking, “Can I see samples of your work?”
Omo, what do you do? 😩
Don’t worry! Even if you have zero experience, you can still create an impressive portfolio that will attract clients. In this post, I’ll show you practical ways to build your freelance portfolio using typical Nigerian examples. Let’s go!
1. Create Sample Work for an Imaginary Client
Who says your first project must be for a real client? If nobody has hired you yet, create a sample project by yourself.
For example:
- Graphic Designer? Design a logo for a fake Nigerian brand (e.g., Mama Nkechi’s Kitchen or Eko Tech Hub).
- Writer? Write an article on “How to Survive in Lagos Traffic” or “Top 10 Nigerian Foods You Must Try.”
- Video Editor? Edit a short motivational clip from an interview with Dangote or Tony Elumelu.
- Web Developer? Build a simple website for an imaginary business like NaijaFastFoods.com.
Upload these samples on Google Drive, Behance, Medium, GitHub, or even your social media. When clients ask for your portfolio, boom! You already have something to show.
2. Work for Family, Friends, or Small Businesses (Even for Free!)
You may not like the sound of “free work,” but sometimes, it’s the best way to start.
- Got a friend running a small business? Offer to create social media flyers for free.
- Your church needs a new website? Help them build one and use it in your portfolio.
- Your uncle has a shop? Write a short ad for his business and post it online.
The goal is to get real-world projects that you can use to attract paying clients later. Even if you’re not paid in cash, you’re getting valuable experience and portfolio content.
3. Use Social Media as Your Portfolio
Many Nigerian freelancers have gotten jobs just by posting their work on social media.
- Graphic designers – Post your designs on Instagram and Twitter
- Writers – Share your articles on LinkedIn or Medium.
- Video editors – Upload short edits on TikTok, YouTube, or Instagram.
- Web developers – Showcase your work on Twitter or create a simple website.
When a client asks for samples, just send them your social media page! Easy.
4. Join Online Challenges and Competitions
Many companies and brands organize free design, writing, or coding challenges. Winning isn’t the only goal—the real prize is the portfolio you’ll build!
For example:
- Canva and Adobe have free design challenges—join them and use your designs in your portfolio.
- LinkedIn and Medium have writing contests—write and add those articles to your samples.
- Hackathons (for coders)—even if you don’t win, you can add the project to your portfolio.
This way, you’ll build experience, meet other freelancers, and show proof of your skills.
5. Volunteer for NGOs or Startups
Many Nigerian NGOs and small startups need writers, designers, and marketers but can’t afford expensive freelancers. This is your chance to help while building your portfolio!
Look for organizations that:
- Need social media posts or blog content
- Want a better website or logo
- Need someone to edit their event videos
Ask if you can work with them for a short time. In return, you’ll have proof of work to show future clients.
6. Use Freelance Platforms to Get Small Starter Jobs
Even if you’re new, you can still get low-competition gigs on platforms like:
- Fiverr (Start with simple gigs like “I will design a basic flyer”)
- Upwork (Bid for entry-level jobs)
- PeoplePerHour (Look for micro-projects)
The trick? Start small. Even a ₦5,000 job can give you experience and a portfolio sample to attract bigger clients later.
7. Package Your Portfolio Nicely (Presentation Matters!)
Having good work is great, but if your portfolio looks scattered and unprofessional, clients may ignore you.
Here’s how to make your portfolio look clean and organized:
- Use Google Drive or a website to store your best work.
- For designers: Use Behance or Dribbble to display your designs.
- For writers: Create a Medium or LinkedIn profile with links to your articles.
- For developers: Upload your code on GitHub and showcase projects.
Even if you have only 3–5 samples, arrange them well and make them easy for clients to view.
Final Words: Your Portfolio is Your Golden Ticket!
Freelancing in Nigeria can be tough, but if you build a strong portfolio, you’ll stand out from the crowd.
So, don’t wait for your first client before creating samples. Start now. Whether it’s an imaginary project, a free job, or a small paid gig—just keep building.
Before you know it, clients will start coming, and you’ll be cashing out.
Need help with your portfolio? Check out our courses.
