Data and storytelling for social impact.

A mobile-first campaign to remind us that being gay shouldn’t be a crime in Tanzania.

I am Binadam 🏳️‍🌈

Throughout Tanzania, sex acts between men are illegal and carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. 
I am Binadam, is a story written in English and Swahili, which is part of a guerilla-style, anonymous campaign in support of the LGBTQ community in Tanzania.

I am Binadam was built using Shorthand, the visual storytelling platform used by broadcasters and newspapers, we submitted the project to their annual competition, and the shortlist included work from BBC News, Fairfax Media, RSPCA, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Goal, NZME and many more and "I am Binadam" won the "Shorthand Awards" in the category - courageous newcomer.

"The use of colorful illustrations were a delightful way to present a serious subject, and the minimal use of written text gave the messages and data presented a chance to really stand out"

Results: The Swahili version of this campaign, has been greatly shared on social media and reached the attention of Tanzanian local authorities.

Recently, the government threatened to arrest and deport anyone campaigning for gay rights:  “If a Tanzanian national is doing that campaign, we will arrest him and take him to court ... and if it is a foreigner, we will immediately order him to leave the country.”

Role: Lead Creative & Illustrator Data Viz Designer: Piero Zagami Agency: Data4Change