Whale Design, which launched in 2017, takes companies' design requests and floats competitions for designers, with the winner being allowed on work on the company's project and earning a bonus as well.

Peng's first win came on his second attempt when he took part in a contest and won a prize of 20,000 yuan ($2,933), which gave him the chance to work directly with the clients.

"I had no experience of talking to clients before, and the staff at Whale Design helped me," says the 24-year-old.

Besides taking part in Whale's design contests, Peng also uses the platform to see other designers' works. "I learn from them, comment on their work (on the platform) and discuss ideas," Peng says.

Designer Luan Peng's talent was spotted by a friend who suggested he participate in the Whale Design competition, which he did, and later he got a job there.