Designing a global virtual event with live programme, content and awards.

Cannes Lions Live is a global premiere event celebrated annually, showcasing the Cannes Lions Awards and a remarkable content program that illustrates the transformative power of creativity. The theme for this year's event, "The World is Watching," encapsulates our mission to unite creatives globally to celebrate creativity's impact on society. As a fully digital festival, it consisted of a one-week webinar series, an awards ceremony, a digital membership launch, and a variety of on-demand content aimed at inspiring and engaging participants worldwide.
As the Design Lead for this initiative, I was responsible for developing and executing the visual and marketing aspects of the event. I led the design team in creating a cohesive visual identity for Cannes Lions Live, which included marketing materials, digital assets, and presentations for sponsors and award winners.

The objectives include creating a unified visual identity to enhance messaging, developing effective marketing materials to boost participation, and ensuring a cohesive digital experience that meets the needs of all teams involved in broadcasting and streaming.
Collaboration was key to the success of Cannes Lions Live. I worked with the Broadcast/Video Team to enhance live event visuals, partnered with the Product Team to create a user-friendly platform for content access and interactive sessions, and collaborated with the Content Team to align our design language with the event’s themes.
The design process started with brainstorming sessions to visually represent the theme "The World is Watching," analysing global trends in creativity. This resulted in a cohesive visual identity, including a logo, color palette, and typography, aligned with the Cannes Lions spirit. A range of marketing materials, such as social media graphics and email templates, were developed for various festival segments, followed by a feedback loop with stakeholders to refine the designs and ensure comprehensive representation of the event.

In the execution phase, we prioritised meeting timelines for a smooth festival launch. Real-time collaborations allowed for adjustments to visual presentations based on live feedback, while interactive content like animated graphics enhanced viewer engagement.
Cannes Lions Live successfully brought together the creative community across the globe, fulfilling the envisioned goal of "The World is Watching." Feedback from participants highlighted the seamless integration of design and content, noting the event's professionalism, vibrancy, and ability to inspire. The visual identity we created played a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience, both for live attendees and those accessing the on-demand content afterward.
This project epitomised the power of collaboration and design in uniting a global audience. As the Design Lead, my leadership in guiding the team ensured that Cannes Lions Live not only celebrated creativity but also redefined how digital experiences can engage and inspire. Looking ahead, the lessons learned and successful strategies employed during this event will enable us to deliver even more impactful experiences in the future.













