byTigray - Social Impact
How do you get people to care about a humanitarian crisis in Tigray, Ethiopia?
Through trial and error, I learned to spread the word in a way that isn’t so focused on war but more so focused on creating community through shared cultures and human experiences.
Instagram + TikTok
Since 2020, there has been an ongoing humanitarian crisis in Tigray, Ethiopia. To spread awareness, I used Instagram and TikTok to start building a community. I created social-first content that centers around culture, advocacy, and art.
Documentary Content
I produced a short documentary of a protest in D.C. to showcase what advocacy for Tigray can look like by showcasing young, Tigrayan leaders in action.
I also created a short, mixed media film about the love children have for their mothers and fathers, a cross-cultural feeling.
Traditional Braids of Tigray - Educational Infographic
I designed an educational infographic about traditional braids specifically from Tigray. I wanted to share this aspect of the culture because braids are a global beauty tradition. This infographic also serves as a way to work against the misinformation of the cultural origin of Tigrayan braids.
Website + Merchandise
After building a small community of Tigrayans and allies on Instagram and in-person, I created merchandise to help fundraise for Tigray. One of the designs I created is universal and can appeal to anyone, not just Tigrayans—a heart angel design with a Tigrayan twist.
Because religion is deeply intertwined with culture in Tigray, many women have a small cross-shaped tattoo or scar on their forehead. For this reason, I sketched a subtle cross on the heart angel’s forehead.
