Apparent expands design program partnership with Western Sydney University

Apparent is expanding its partnership with Western Sydney University (WSU), becoming a major industry partner of the university's redesigned design program through a 12-month "Sponsor a Subject" partnership in 2027.

The partnership builds on a relationship between the independent agency and the WSU design team that began in 2023 through internships, mentoring, portfolio reviews, and industry panels. Since 2023, Apparent has provided placements for 13 WSU design students and contributed to portfolio and assessment programs.

Khushi Mali was a student who has since moved from work experience to a full-time role at Apparent as a visual designer.

She said: “The course gave me a strong understanding of what it would be like to work in the industry, but getting the opportunity to experience it firsthand through my placement at Apparent was invaluable. I loved the experience, and it gave me the confidence to know that this was where I wanted to be. Now working at Apparent as a visual designer, it honestly feels like a dream come true.”

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Giving students meaningful exposure to the industry

Throughout 2027, Apparent's team will work with students and educators through mentoring, industry sessions and portfolio development, aimed at helping students build the skills and connections needed to enter the industry.

“Working with WSU over the past few years has been incredibly rewarding,” Suzy Smiley, managing director at Apparent said.

“We’ve seen firsthand how valuable it is for students to have meaningful exposure to the industry while they’re studying, so becoming a formal partner of the new design program felt like a really natural next step for us. We’re excited to work more closely with the students and the WSU team throughout 2027."

Dan Johnston, industry engagement lead (design), Western Sydney University, added: “Our students who work with the Apparent team are at an immediate advantage over their peers. Apparent provides them with authentic experiences that evolve into real-world successes.”

The partnership reflects the indie agency's focus on opening pathways into advertising and the creative industries for students from diverse backgrounds, and follows several years of collaboration between Apparent and WSU.

Top image: Khushi Mali