In the realm of visual design, the “ZONE” campaign stands as a testament to the transformative power of creativity. It’s a story of collaboration and commitment, and it serves as a shining example of how design can be a catalyst for change, especially in addressing sensitive topics such as gender-based violence and equality.

According to Çağla Turgul, faculty member of Media and Visual Arts at CSSH, this project was different from any she had undertaken before. It carried a unique weight, considering the team was creating it within their own environment, with a strong sense of responsibility as women. This is why Çağla considers this task one of the most significant and meaningful experiences in her career. The connection between the team at Circle Graphic Communication Design Studio and the campaign was visceral, and it was designed for students by students, making it incredibly special.

As Çağla wisely puts it, creating real change takes time and persistent effort. Sustainability is a vital focus for projects like “ZONE” that seek to make a lasting impact. Çağla emphasizes that efficient communication relies on maintaining a consistent and notable tone of voice, colored by understanding and optimism.

Derin Kılıçoğlu and Ece Kayıkçı, two students deeply involved in the campaign’s creative process, shared their journey through its early stages of brainstorming. They focused on research, choosing a name, and crafting a catchy tagline that encapsulated the essence of the campaign and its goal to provide a safe space for exchange. This initial stage was a collaborative effort, involving extensive research and critical decision-making to shape the campaign’s core message.

Visual elements played a pivotal role in the campaign’s success. Inclusivity and relatability were at the core of these design choices, ensuring that every member of the Koç University community could see themselves in the campaign. The design process involved careful selection of color schemes, character design, and layout to create visuals that were both eye-catching and meaningful.

Balancing creativity and education was a central challenge for Derin and Ece. To raise awareness effectively, they decided to use everyday dialogues, alongside terms and definitions related to gender-based violence. This creative decision ensured that the campaign not only caught the audience’s attention but also educated and empowered them to take action.

Designing for an academic environment brought its own set of challenges, but a well-thought, balanced, and consistent approach overcame these hurdles. Striking visual elements, relatable dialogues, and understandable definitions resonated with the Koç University community, creating a powerful message that extended beyond the boundaries of traditional design.

The role of design in raising awareness is undeniably significant. By designing visual content that resonates with the community, the “ZONE” campaign aspires to create a meaningful impact and encourage everyone to be part of the conversation. The “ZONE” campaign is not just a visual project; it’s a narrative of unity, inclusivity, and empowerment through design.