Epilectra, A Graphic Novel Series

Problem

Author and creator of Epilectra, The Graphic Novel Series, Sue Seserman, came to ShuBu Creative with the brilliant concept of a team of superheroes with disabilities who were making the world a better place. The script was written and the illustrations were hand-drawn by Sue herself. She presented it to ShuBu in a spiral-bound notebook. Sue and her husband, Doug, a seasoned corporate marketing professional, knew this book had a promising future and a vital message to spread. First, however, they wanted help getting it launched and looking professional and then wanted marketing and PR support after it was published. 

Solution

First, we tackled the brand. We worked with the author, Sue Seserman, to narrow down the key brand pillars of her novel and visually develop the characters in a digitized way. We solidified a clear mission, vision and values as well as a tagline: Transforming Disability into Superability. We created a logo, color palate, fonts and unique visual identity.

We determined how to position the book to preteens, parents, and loved ones of those with disabilities as “edutainment” as well as inspiring. We worked with Sue to hire an illustrator that fit the needs, vision, and style of the book. Once we found the right designer, we went to work to bring the characters and brand to life.

We developed the characters, the storyboards, and the brand messaging pillars. Once we determined the characters and the brand messaging, we created a website, media kit and other marketing materials like business cards and talking points to bring to conferences and networking events. At the same time, we worked on building a social media presence, followers and general disability awareness. 

We implemented an ongoing monthly e-newsletter and blog to Sue’s growing database of contacts to keep audiences engaged while we waited for the book to publish.

After three years of hard work, Epilectra was published in 2024! We strategically began a PR campaign leading up to the launch in order to have credibility when the book was released. We executed heavy media outreach 6-months prior to the release knowing that coverage would happen closer to book launch.

We also increased our social media presence during this 6-months time-period, layering in more content, reels, stories and more static posts. We continued the monthly blog and newsletter, but added in more email marketing in addition to the monthly e-newsletter. Additionally, Sue did speaking engagements during this time and anything to gain more exposure. At the time of the book release, we already had buzz. Finally, we hosted a book launch party and celebrated with friends, family and industry contacts.

Impact

Through ShuBu’s partnership, PR, branding and marketing efforts the graphic novel received national and local attention. Social media audiences grew from zero to thousands of followers on Linkedin, FB, Instagram and Twitter. The novel received endorsements from associations such as the National Epilepsy Foundation, Invisible Disabilities Association and The Defeating Epilepsy Foundation, and was covered in numerous media outlets including but not limited to: Denver’s prestigious 5280 Magazine, Denver’s Fox31, 9News, Westword, Colorado Public Radio, The Daily Camera, Chicago’s Midwest Book Review, Pittsburgh, The Gazette, and more! The novel’s sales continue to slowly increase as times goes on and is available via Amazon and other online retailers such as Barnes & Nobles.

Youth Healthcare Alliance

Problem

The Colorado Association of School-Based Health Care (CASBHC) faced challenges in effectively communicating its mission, services, and impact to its target audience. The organization's previous name, branded as an acronym CASBHC was confusing, making it difficult to differentiate themselves from hundreds of other Colorado health-based organizations and make new legislators (their primary audience) aware of their cause, which equals more funding for school-based healthcare clinics. 

Solution

CASBHC partnered with ShuBu Creative to lead its rebranding strategy. Collaborating closely with the Executive Director, staff, and board, ShuBu Creative embarked on a comprehensive branding process to redefine the organization's identity and develop a compelling brand narrative.

ShuBu Creative began by facilitating brainstorming sessions and conducting in-depth interviews to gain insights into the organization's values, goals, and target audience. Through this collaborative process, a new name, "Youth Health Care Alliance," was chosen to reflect the organization's mission better and focus. The tagline, "Champions for Colorado School-Based Clinics," was also developed to succinctly convey the organization's dedication to advancing healthcare access for youth.

To further strengthen the brand, ShuBu Creative refined the brand power words to encapsulate the organization's services: "Advocacy, Advancement, Access, and Equity." These words became the pillars of the brand, representing the core values and impact of the Youth Health Care Alliance.

Impact

The rebranding efforts led by ShuBu Creative had a significant impact on the Youth Health Care Alliance. The organization's new brand narrative now effectively communicates its purpose of improving healthcare outcomes for youth in Colorado. The refined brand power words provide a clear framework for the organization's work and resonate with its stakeholders.

The visual identity of the brand was also transformed to reflect a youthful yet sophisticated image. ShuBu Creative designed modern iconography and selected vibrant colors that captured the attention of the target audience, creating a visually appealing and engaging brand presence.

With the successful rebranding, the Youth Health Care Alliance experienced several positive outcomes. The organization's new name and tagline helped position itself as a leader and advocate for school-based clinics in Colorado. The clear and concise brand messaging improved communication with stakeholders and increased awareness of the organization's services.

The impact of the rebranding efforts extended beyond the visual identity. The Youth Health Care Alliance witnessed enhanced recognition and engagement from key stakeholders, including school administrators, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The organization's revitalized brand presence and narrative attracted new partnerships and funding opportunities, further fueling its ability to advocate for accessible and equitable healthcare for youth.

To learn more about the Youth Health Care Alliance and its impactful work, visit their website at www.youthhealthcarealliance.org.