Client: CANARIE, Ottawa
Role: Motion Designer / Animator
Year: 2025
Project Type: NREN Assembly 2025 Opening Video (Bilingual Version)

Overview

The objective was to create an engaging opening video for the NREN Assembly 2025, an annual gathering of Canada’s National Research and Education Network partners. The video was designed to set the tone for the event, welcoming attendees from across Canada’s research and education community while reinforcing the theme of national collaboration and connectivity.

The video is featured on the CANARIE website and plays at the start of the Assembly program. It combines bilingual messaging, photographic storytelling, and subtle motion graphics to reflect the strength and unity of the NREN partnership across the country.

Creative Brief

• Primary Goal: Introduce the NREN Assembly with a sense of pride and shared purpose, while highlighting the national network’s impact on research, innovation, and collaboration in Canada and the people within the NREN Partnerships.
• Target Audience: Members of Canada’s NREN community, including partner organizations, higher education institutions, research institutions, and government representatives.
• Key Message: Canada’s NREN connects people, ideas, and institutions to drive innovation and discovery from coast to coast to coast.

Concept Development

Concept #1: ““Connected Across Canada”

• Problem Statement: The NREN operates through collaboration among many partner organizations, yet the people behind this national network are often unseen.
• Solution Visualization: The video uses authentic photography of NREN community members and partner institutions to highlight the human side of Canada’s research and education network. The sequence builds toward a national perspective, ending with the animated NREN map to represent shared connection and purpose.
• User Benefit: Viewers gain a renewed appreciation for the people and partnerships that form the foundation of Canada’s NREN and its contribution to digital research and education.
• Visual Elements: The sequence opens with a bilingual greeting in English and French, followed by a series of corporate and candid partner photos. The piece concludes with a dynamic visualization of the NREN map and the NREN logo, set to an instrumental soundtrack without narration.

Execution Strategy

• Animation Style: Clean and professional, with steady pacing and smooth transitions. The flow of images and music creates a sense of unity and collaboration while maintaining a polished corporate tone.
• Color Palette: Neutral tones paired with CANARIE’s cyan highlight (#4cc5d6), complementing the photography while keeping visual consistency across CANARIE and NREN branding.
• Color Palette: Used CANARIE’s signature cyan (#3acddd) combined with lime (#e4fe01) and navy (#073b4c) for consistency with SecuR&E Forum’s previous branding, and for accessibility contrast.
• Typography: Minimal bilingual text in a modern sans-serif font ensures clarity and accessibility in both English and French.
• Sound Design: An instrumental, wordless soundtrack supports the visuals with a calm, uplifting rhythm that builds subtly toward the NREN logo reveal.

Results

The NREN Assembly 2025 video successfully introduced the event with an inspiring and unified message. It resonated with attendees and reinforced the collaborative nature of the NREN partnership. The video continues to be featured on canarie.ca as a visual representation of the NREN’s national impact and leadership in research and education networking.

Learnings & Future Recommendations

Representation: Using real images of NREN community members builds authenticity and emotional connection.

Bilingual Inclusion: Opening with bilingual text reinforces accessibility and reflects the national scope of the NREN partnership.

Future Development: Subsequent Assembly videos could build on this foundation by incorporating short motion clips, voiceovers, or partner soundbites to further strengthen storytelling and engagement.

Client: CANARIE, Ottawa
Role: Motion Designer / Animator
Year: 2025
Project Type: SecuR&E Forum 2025 Trailer (English Version)

Overview

The objective was to produce a motion graphics trailer promoting the 2025 SecuR&E Forum, an annual cybersecurity event hosted by CANARIE, to engage the national research and education community. The trailer aimed to build anticipation, convey professionalism, and visually capture the conference’s theme of resilience, collaboration, and innovation in cybersecurity.

The motion piece was designed for use across social media, event websites, and large-format displays at the conference venue.

canarie.ca/secureforum

Creative Brief

• Primary Goal: Increase awareness and early registration for the SecuR&E Forum by showcasing the event’s national impact and CANARIE’s leadership in Canada’s cybersecurity ecosystem.
• Target Audience: Cybersecurity professionals, IT leaders, and executives within Canada’s research and education (R&E) institutions and NREN partners.
• Key Message: “Join the conversation shaping the future of cybersecurity in Canada’s R&E community.

Concept Development

Concept #1: “Connected. Secure. Resilient.”

• Problem Statement: Cybersecurity is often communicated as a technical challenge rather than a collaborative, human one.
• Solution Visualization: The trailer illustrates the power of a connected national cybersecurity network, showing data, institutions, and people working together to safeguard Canada’s digital research infrastructure.
• User Benefit: Participation provides access to shared expertise, collaboration, and the latest strategies for strengthening cybersecurity across Canada’s R&E organizations.
• Visual Elements: Abstract network lines, glowing data nodes, and animated motion paths connecting universities and research centres across a digital map of Canada.

Direct Response Elements

• Modular Design: Created adaptable motion segments for multiple formats, including social posts, LED displays, and web banners, to maintain consistency across CANARIE’s digital ecosystem.
• Persona-Specific Scenarios: Scenes were tailored to reflect both technical audiences (CISOs, IT directors) and executive audiences (CIOs, university leadership).
• Call-to-Action (CTA): “canarie.ca/secureforum” was integrated visually at the end of the trailer with synchronized motion and sound for emphasis to direct potential and current attendees t othe forum website.

Execution Strategy

• Animation Style: Clean and data-driven, with controlled transitions and smooth kinetic typography emphasizing keywords such as “Secure,” “Collaborate,” and “Innovate.”
• Color Palette: Used CANARIE’s signature cyan (#3acddd) combined with lime (#e4fe01) and navy (#073b4c) for consistency with SecuR&E Forum’s previous branding, and for accessibility contrast.
• Color Palette: Used CANARIE’s signature cyan (#3acddd) combined with lime (#e4fe01) and navy (#073b4c) for consistency with SecuR&E Forum’s previous branding, and for accessibility contrast.
• Typography: Modern sans-serif type aligned with CANARIE’s brand system for digital clarity and legibility on large screens.
• Sound Design: Included a cinematic digital tone with light ambient motion cues to reinforce the technological sophistication of the event.

Results

The trailer increased visibility for the 2025 SecuR&E Forum across digital channels and contributed to early attendee engagement. It also strengthened CANARIE’s position as a national leader in cybersecurity coordination and awareness.

Learnings & Future Recommendations

Accessibility: Ensuring that motion assets meet WCAG visual contrast standards improves usability across all media.

Consistency: Maintaining brand continuity across digital and event materials enhances recognition and trust.

Scalability: Future campaigns should continue to use modular motion assets for multi-platform adaptability and bilingual execution in English and French.

Client: Zapier (via Rickhouse Media, San Francisco)
Role: Motion Designer / Animator
Year: 2020
Project Type: Direct Response (DR) Ad Campaign

Overview

The objective was to craft a motion graphics-driven campaign that effectively communicated Zapier’s core value propositions to a performance marketing audience. The animation aimed to highlight the platform’s automation capabilities, emphasizing time-saving benefits and seamless app integrations.

Creative Brief

• Primary Goal: Enhance user acquisition through engaging motion graphics that elucidate Zapier’s automation features.
• Target Audience: Professionals seeking to optimize workflows by automating repetitive tasks across various applications.
• Key Message: “Automate your work and reclaim your time.”

Concept Development

Concept #1: “What is Zapier?”

• Problem Statement: “How much time are you wasting moving data between your apps?”
• Solution Visualization: Demonstrated how Zapier automates data transfers, reducing manual effort.
• User Benefit: “What would you do with extra time?”—highlighting the personal and professional advantages of automation.
• Visual Elements: Incorporated real app UI elements to illustrate the automation process, making the concept tangible and relatable.gdusa.com

Direct Response Elements

• Modular Design: Developed a system allowing for multiple variations, facilitating A/B testing to determine the most effective combinations and sequences.
• Persona-Specific Scenarios: Created “When/Then” examples tailored to different user personas, enhancing relevance and engagement.
• Call-to-Action (CTA): Integrated clear and compelling CTAs to drive user sign-ups and conversions.

Execution Strategy

• Animation Style: Employed clean, linear motion graphics to ensure clarity and focus on the automation narrative.
• Color Palette: Utilized Zapier’s brand colors to maintain consistency and reinforce brand identity.
• Typography: Selected legible fonts that align with Zapier’s branding, ensuring readability across devices.
• Sound Design: Incorporated subtle sound effects to enhance user engagement without causing distraction.

Results

While specific metrics are proprietary, the campaign contributed to increased user engagement and sign-ups, aligning with Zapier’s performance marketing objectives.

Learnings & Future Recommendations

Clarity: Simplicity in design and messaging ensures that the value proposition is easily understood.

Personalization: Tailoring content to specific user personas enhances relevance and effectiveness.

Testing: Modular designs facilitate efficient A/B testing, allowing for data-driven optimizations.

Client: Zapier (via Rickhouse Media, San Francisco)
Role: Motion Designer / Animator
Year: 2020
Project Type: Direct Response (DR) Ad Campaign

Overview

The objective was to craft a motion graphics-driven campaign that effectively communicated Zapier’s core value propositions to a performance marketing audience. The animation aimed to highlight the platform’s automation capabilities, emphasizing time-saving benefits and seamless app integrations.

Creative Brief

• Primary Goal: Enhance user acquisition through engaging motion graphics that elucidate Zapier’s automation features.
• Target Audience: Professionals seeking to optimize workflows by automating repetitive tasks across various applications.
• Key Message: “Automate your work and reclaim your time.”athleticsnyc.comspectacle.is

Concept Development

Concept #1: “What is Zapier?”

• Problem Statement: “How much time are you wasting moving data between your apps?”
• Solution Visualization: Demonstrated how Zapier automates data transfers, reducing manual effort.
• User Benefit: “What would you do with extra time?”—highlighting the personal and professional advantages of automation.
• Visual Elements: Incorporated real app UI elements to illustrate the automation process, making the concept tangible and relatable.gdusa.com

Direct Response Elements

• Modular Design: Developed a system allowing for multiple variations, facilitating A/B testing to determine the most effective combinations and sequences.
• Persona-Specific Scenarios: Created “When/Then” examples tailored to different user personas, enhancing relevance and engagement.
• Call-to-Action (CTA): Integrated clear and compelling CTAs to drive user sign-ups and conversions.

Execution Strategy

• Animation Style: Employed clean, linear motion graphics to ensure clarity and focus on the automation narrative.
• Color Palette: Utilized Zapier’s brand colors to maintain consistency and reinforce brand identity.
• Typography: Selected legible fonts that align with Zapier’s branding, ensuring readability across devices.
• Sound Design: Incorporated subtle sound effects to enhance user engagement without causing distraction.

Results

While specific metrics are proprietary, the campaign contributed to increased user engagement and sign-ups, aligning with Zapier’s performance marketing objectives.

Learnings & Future Recommendations

Clarity: Simplicity in design and messaging ensures that the value proposition is easily understood.

Personalization: Tailoring content to specific user personas enhances relevance and effectiveness.

Testing: Modular designs facilitate efficient A/B testing, allowing for data-driven optimizations.

Client: Ultimate Edge Communications (Sydney, Australia)
Role: Art Director
Year: 2020
Project Type: National Brand & Business Confidence Campaign

Overview

In response to the economic challenges faced by Australian businesses in 2020, Ultimate Edge Communications (UEC) launched the “Made In Australia” campaign. The initiative aimed to bolster national pride, support local enterprises, and stimulate economic recovery by highlighting the resilience and innovation of Australian businesses.

Creative Brief

• Objective: Reinforce the value of Australian-made products and services, encouraging consumers to support local businesses during a period of economic uncertainty.
• Target Audience: Australian consumers and business owners seeking quality, locally-produced goods and services.
• Key Message: “Support local. Choose Australian-made.”

Concept Development

Core Themes:

• Authenticity: Showcasing real Australian businesses and their contributions to the economy.
• Resilience: Highlighting stories of adaptation and perseverance amid challenges.
• Community: Emphasizing the collective effort to support and uplift local enterprises.

Visual Elements:

• Imagery: Incorporated visuals of Australian landscapes, manufacturing processes, and local storefronts to establish a strong national identity.
• Typography: Utilized bold, clean fonts to convey strength and clarity.
• Color Palette: Employed a color scheme inspired by the Australian flag—red, white, and blue—to evoke patriotism.

Execution Strategy

• Media Channels: Deployed across television, digital platforms, print media, and outdoor advertising to maximize reach.
• Partnerships: Collaborated with local business associations and chambers of commerce to amplify the campaign’s message.
• Interactive Elements: Launched a dedicated website featuring stories of Australian businesses, allowing users to explore and support local enterprises.lbbonline.com

Results

While specific metrics are proprietary, the campaign contributed to increased consumer awareness and support for Australian-made products and services, aligning with UEC’s objectives to stimulate economic recovery and national pride.

Learnings & Future Recommendations

Storytelling: Sharing authentic stories of local businesses fosters trust and encourages consumer support.

Emotional Connection: Campaigns that tap into national identity and community support can drive significant engagement.

Multi-Channel Approach: Utilizing a diverse range of media channels ensures broader audience reach and impact.

Client: Assembly of First Nations (AFN), Ottawa, Canada
Role: Motion Designer / Animator
Year: 2021
Project Type: Public Health Awareness Campaign

Overview

In 2021, the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) initiated a public health campaign to address COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy within First Nations communities. The campaign aimed to provide culturally resonant information to encourage vaccination and protect vulnerable populations, particularly Elders.

Creative Brief

• Objective: Develop a compelling animated PSA to educate and motivate First Nations individuals about the safety and importance of COVID-19 vaccination.
• Target Audience: First Nations communities across Canada, with a focus on individuals under 65 who exhibited higher levels of vaccine hesitancy.
• Key Message: “Protect our communities and Elders—get vaccinated.”bc.ctvnews.ca+1bcafn.ca+1

Concept Development

Core Themes:

• Cultural Significance: Highlighting the role of Elders as knowledge keepers and the importance of their protection.
• Community Unity: Emphasizing collective responsibility and the strength of community action.
• Empowerment: Encouraging informed decision-making through accessible and trustworthy information.afn.caictnews.org

Visual Elements:

• Artistic Style: Utilized Indigenous art motifs and symbolism to create a visually engaging narrative.
• Color Palette: Incorporated traditional colors to resonate with cultural identities.
• Animation: Developed smooth transitions and storytelling techniques to maintain viewer engagement.

Execution Strategy

• Narration: Featured voices from respected community members to build trust and authenticity.
• Distribution Channels: Released across television, social media platforms, and community networks to maximize reach.
• Language Accessibility: Considered translation into various Indigenous languages to ensure inclusivity.

Results

While specific metrics are proprietary, the PSA contributed to increased awareness and understanding of COVID-19 vaccines within First Nations communities, aligning with AFN’s objectives to promote public health and safety.

Learnings & Future Recommendations

• Cultural Relevance: Tailoring health messages to align with cultural values enhances effectiveness.
• Community Engagement: Involving local voices and leaders fosters trust and acceptance.
• Multi-Platform Approach: Disseminating content through various channels ensures broader accessibility.