Believing is achieving
In March 2019, the UAE hosted the Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi, marking the first time the world’s largest humanitarian multi sport event was held in the Middle East.
With over 7,500 athletes from 190+ countries competing in 24 sports across Abu Dhabi, the event aimed to break barriers and celebrate individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Following this historic occasion, Special Olympics UAE (SO UAE) tasked Punch with designing a report that would capture the stories of courage, human spirit, and triumph that defined the Games.
Challenge
The project came with a deep sense of pride and responsibility.
Not only did the report need to reflect the scale and significance of the event, but it also had to align with the brand standards of an esteemed global organization.
Punch was challenged to create a design that honoured the spirit of the Games while adhering to brand guidelines that would reflect the reputation and legacy of the Special Olympics.
The final product needed to serve as both a record of accomplishment and a visual tribute to the athletes and organizers.
Solution
With a focus on creating a visually compelling and emotionally resonant report, Punch approached the project by first engaging with the organizing committee to understand the heart of the event.
The team collected firsthand narratives, giving depth to the raw data and enabling a seamless story flow throughout the report.
Inspired by the courage and determination witnessed during the Games, Punch crafted a design that captured the essence of the event in an elegant and powerful way.
The report featured carefully curated photographs that highlighted the emotions and achievements of athletes, complemented by clear, engaging infographics that made complex data accessible and memorable.
The design also included a custom-made folder to preserve the report, symbolizing its value as a keepsake for the nation and a testament to the UAE’s commitment to inclusivity.
Success
The Special Olympics post-event report became more than just a document; it was a superlative publication that showcased the UAE’s dedication to inclusivity and human dignity.
The design allowed readers from around the world to relive the spirit of the Games, serving as a lasting reminder of the athletes’ achievements and the UAE’s leadership in fostering acceptance and respect for all.
Summary
Our collaboration with Special Olympics UAE marked a proud moment for Punch. As expressed by Fatma Ebrahim Mohamed.
Our journey with Punch has been super smooth since day one. The Punch team radiates a welcoming attitude and has a speedy turnaround in responding to feedback and making required edits.
— Fatma Ebrahim Mohamed,
Strategic & Projects Director of Special Olympics UAE:
The success of the Special Olympics report solidified Punch’s role as a creative partner in capturing meaningful narratives through design, contributing to a legacy of inclusivity and pride.