Editorial Community Magazine For Gen-Z Youth

Brief: Revitalize the print magazine to capture the vibrant, unapologetic spirit of queer Gen-Z. Blend bold visuals, inclusive narratives, and interactive elements to meet youth where they are—at the intersection of identity, creativity, and activism.

Method: The central focus of this project was to breathe new life into the traditional art form of print for a new generation, aligning with the growing demand for Y2K-era and vintage aesthetics. Distribution included both physical and digital editions to maximize accessibility. To modernize the print zine, we prioritized blending digital components and access points throughout each issue, encouraging deeper, more rewarding engagement from readers. This included everything from shoppable spreads to interactive features like sending a personal note to the talent featured in our cover stories.

Process: Each issue of Gaygenda Magazine was the result of meticulous theme and visual research, ensuring that every edition offered a refreshing design perspective while maintaining a cohesive brand identity. Released quarterly, the editorial issues captured the pulse of the moment, with designs informed by current trends and events.

Blurring the lines between digital and analog, the design process involved constant exploration of how to modernize the print magazine for a digital-first audience. This approach ensured that the magazine not only looked appealing on a coffee table but also extended into the digital realm through QR codes, scannable elements, and augmented reality (AR) features.

The overarching design prioritized showcasing people over products, with a deliberate decision to limit ad space to no more than 10% of the magazine.