Our PORTfolio reading series is held at the The Vault Cafe from September to March in Nanaimo, BC in partnership with Windowseat Books. Established in 2018, PORTfolio is an opportunity for up-and-coming writers, published authors, and interested readers to connect.

Occurring monthly on Thursday evenings, further details can be found on our Instagram.

Portfolio Series Coordinators Marina McDonald and Jay McDonnell with keynote speaker Avianna Bishop (center) on October 16, 2025.

We begin PORTfolio by highlighting three student readers to share their original work. After each of them reads for approximately 7 minutes, we break for a brief intermission to refill our drinks and peruse the stock of Portal Magazine back issues available for purchase at all of our events!

Our keynote speakers take on the rest of the night, typically reading for a half hour and ending with a Q&A with the audience.

The Vault Cafe, a staple of Downtown Nanaimo, graciously hosts PORTfolio. Courtesy of their staff and kitchen, their regular menu is available for purchase during their regular hours.

For readers unable to attend our live events, we also offer recordings of readings and interviews on our website.

Attendance is free of charge.

PORTfolio Hall of Fame

Tawahum Bige

Frances Peck

Margot Fedoruk

Julie Burtinshaw

Charlie Petch

Neil Surkan

Amanda Hale

Ken Hegan

Rhonda Ganz

Jennifer Wynne Webber

Kathy Page