Youth Xchange Student Video Competition
Creative Lead
The ʻŌlelo Youth Xchange Competition (YXC) is Hawaiʻi’s premier statewide student video competition, where youth produce PSAs, short films, and documentaries on pressing social issues. In 2025, the theme was “Holomua: Innovating for a Better Future.” I led the event’s creative direction, branding, and marketing to elevate student voices and foster homegrown creative talent.
Contributions:
Developed the theme “Holomua” and the full brand identity system
Directed branding, design, and messaging across digital, print, and live event touchpoints
Designed the event’s merchandise, signage, and program materials
Oversaw email marketing, outreach strategy, and post-event data analysis
Ensured visual and narrative cohesion across all platforms and mediums
Impact:
Raised $68,000 in event funding
Generated $5,000 in ticket sales
Reached 575 entires from over 1300 students across the state
Creative Strategy & Concept
“Holomua” (to move forward) was chosen to reflect a forward-thinking vision rooted in Hawaiian values. I designed the branding to reflect this duality: traditional motifs like taro (kalo) and ʻulu (breadfruit) leaves representing growth and ancestry were interwoven with circuitry patterns to symbolize innovation. The result was a cultural-technological fusion that visually reinforced the event’s theme.
Design & Deliverables
Event Branding
Created a unified visual identity, color system, and motif library used across all assets.
Merchandise & Collateral
Launched YXC’s first branded pop-up shop. Designed shirts, totes, stickers, and posters, all aligned with the 2025 theme. Managed the layout and production of the official event program booklet, including vendor coordination.
Show Graphics
Produced animated show visuals and graphics for the statewide awards live ceremony experience.
Reflection
This project combined creative vision and strategic design to uplift student storytelling. It sharpened my skills in integrated branding and reinforced my passion for designing experiences that inspire and empower young voices in Hawaiʻi.
