Adcolor Futures 2024

Role — Design Director

ADCOLOR FUTURES is a pioneering program committed to elevating the next generation of diverse leaders in advertising, marketing, media, and public relations. Through full sponsorship to the ADCOLOR Conference, career development via ADCOLOR University, and structured mentorship, participants gain access, support, and inspiration. The program fosters a creative, inclusive community where bold ideas and authentic voices thrive. In 2024, the theme “Off Mute” became a powerful rallying cry—amplifying those historically silenced and challenging critics of diversity, equity, and inclusion. It was more than a message; it was a movement. “Off Mute” called for meaningful action, not just conversation—empowering participants to speak up, push boundaries, and redefine what leadership looks like. Because power isn’t in volume alone—it’s in the lasting impact of being unapologetically heard.

Inspired by the theme Off Mute, we created a bold visual identity that embodies the amplification of underrepresented voices. The design system features layered sound waves, frequency lines, and refractive elements to convey visual volume and the energy of voices rising. Central to the system is the plus symbol—used consistently as a graphic motif—to represent the inclusion and amplification of diverse perspectives. This symbol reinforces our commitment to equity while serving as a unifying design element across mediums. Each visual choice was intentional, transforming the theme into a living, breathing system that speaks as loudly as the message itself. The result is more than a look—it’s a visual language of empowerment, presence, and purpose.

Art Direction, Branding, Animation, Print

ADCOLOR
Criseli Roddy, Director, ADCOLOR Programs
Candace D. Queen, FUTURES Brand Manager
Ana Leen, VP, Partnerships

DEUTSCH
Head of Advocacy and Communications: Ayn Howze
Chief Design Officer: Adhemas Batista
Group Design Director: Talin Baharian
Design Director: Kenneth Kegley
Junior Designer: Jamal Abdullahi
Art Director: Sean McSherry
Copywriter: Craig Kissoon
Director of Assets and Content: John Cluckie
Photographer: Ben Morris