Last week, Istituto Marangoni Milano Design opened its doors to Il Grande Venerdì di Enzo, the long-standing initiative promoted by ADCI - Art Directors Club Italiano, once again reaffirming its role as a meeting point between education and the creative industry.

Now in its 27th edition, Italy's largest nationwide portfolio review took place simultaneously across 14 Italian cities, offering students, young creatives, freelancers, and emerging professionals the opportunity to engage directly with some of the most respected figures in the communications industry. Over the years, the event has become a landmark appointment for those looking to transform their talent into a tangible professional opportunity.

A direct dialogue between students and professionals

Created with the aim of fostering connections between new generations and the creative sector, the initiative gives participants the chance to present their portfolios, receive qualified feedback, and build meaningful professional relationships. It is a valuable experience that goes far beyond a simple portfolio review: a moment of listening, guidance, and exchange that provides concrete tools to navigate the professional world with greater awareness and confidence.

Hosting an event of this scale allows Istituto Marangoni Milano Design to further strengthen its commitment to building an educational ecosystem that is increasingly connected to professional practice, where dialogue with those working in the industry every day becomes an integral part of the learning journey.

Andrea Bomentre among the Milan reviewers

Among the professionals taking part in the Milan edition was Andrea Bomentre, Creative Director at M+C SAATCHI and faculty member at Istituto Marangoni Milano Design. In his role as a reviewer, Bomentre met with students and young creatives to analyse their portfolios, share insights and advice, and provide a practical perspective on the skills currently demanded by the communications industry.

His participation highlights the value of an educational approach that bridges academia and professional practice through the contribution of lecturers who bring into the classroom experiences, visions, and expertise developed at the highest levels of the industry.

Honouring the legacy of Enzo Baldoni

Il Grande Venerdì di Enzo was created to honour the memory of Enzo Baldoni, the copywriter and journalist who died in Iraq in 2004 and was widely known for his generosity and dedication to supporting younger generations. Every Friday, Enzo devoted part of his time to reviewing the portfolios of aspiring creatives, offering guidance and encouragement to those taking their first steps into the profession.

ADCI transformed that spirit of sharing into a travelling initiative that, since 2012, has continued to grow by involving hundreds of volunteer professionals willing to dedicate their time, expertise, and experience to supporting emerging talent. Today, Il Grande Venerdì di Enzo remains one of the most important moments of mentorship and professional orientation within the Italian creative landscape.

For the students of Istituto Marangoni Milano Design, participating in initiatives such as this represents much more than a networking opportunity: it is a chance to engage with the real world, gain inspiration, and exchange ideas with those who help shape the future of contemporary creativity every day.