



CUSO INTERNATIONAL ETHIOPIA PUBLICATION
PROJECT TYPE
Research & Creative Strategy
Editorial Design
INDUSTRY
Social Work
OVERVIEW
Brand Research
Strategy Sessions
SWOT Analysis
Concept Development
Creative Direction
Image Selection & Editing
Working with Brand Identity Guidelines
CREDITS
Kelsy Baloch: Design Team Lead, Strategy, Designer
Tiago Rocha: Ethiopian-Based Illustrations, Research
Mark Valmores, Yumna Gillani, Hanna Ali: Designers
Rebecca Gass & Ruby Pratka: Copywriters
Jessica Cunha: Copy Editor
Ania Shichkova: Design Team Consultant
Wendowossen Weldu: Photographer
BACKGROUND
Cuso International is a development organization that works to reduce poverty and inequality through the efforts of highly skilled volunteers, collaborative partnerships and compassionate donors. They aim to create a “world where all people are able to realize their potential, develop their skills, and participate fully in society” (unit 4 of 29, Orientation to Cuso International).
GOAL
The intention of this publication was to highlight Cuso Ethiopia’s programs and successes over the past 5 years through the stories of volunteers to encourage others to volunteer with Cuso International (either from Canada or in its south-to-south program). Further, while sharing the publication with possible partners and donors, Cuso wanted to increase brand recognition in Ethiopia and build mutually beneficial partnerships within Ethiopia and Canada.
"We want readers to perceive Cuso International as an inclusive organization committed to sustainable solutions for the communities we work in. We want readers to understand that we are committed and devoted to our skillful volunteers.”
Rebecca Gass, BPR, CYI, MA(c)
Project Development and Communications Advisor - UGIRLS2
Cuso International Ethiopia - Country Program Office
SOLUTION
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Revitalized current typographic standards for Cuso's brochures to create a modernized, bold, and simple typographic system to appeal to younger volunteers
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Selected and edited photography with an emphasis on maternal and child health (Cuso's focus in their program initiatives) as well as authentic photos of volunteers interacting with Ethiopians
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Incorporation of modernized patterns and shapes inspired by traditional Ethiopian art and fashion
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Bold typographic treatment for the Success by Numbers sections to emphasize the impact of Cuso's initiatives