The PSA Start By Believing was designed for the Montana Department of Justice to raise awareness about sexual assault among students. As this issue affects universities around the world, the animation shows how sexual assault impacts young people of all genders and racial backgrounds.

The storyboarding stage focused on visualizing the inner world of a sexual assault survivor without using triggering images. A trauma-informeed storytelling explores the feelings of loneliness and isolation that survivors often face.

Initial sketches developed into a distinct visual identity that fit the animation’s pacing and emotional tone. The style contrasts crowded, colorful scenes with dark, empty ones. This reflects the gap between how others see the survivor and how they really feel.

The main character’s 2D rig simulates a 270° rotation around the vertical axis. This ensured maximum flexibility in the motion design, making it easier to fine-tune movement speed and quality throughout production.

Each scene transitions seamlessly into the next without hard cuts. This continuous flow mirrors the main character’s emotional journey in real time.

While it was important to show the survivor’s sense of helplessness, the animation also delivers a comforting message. Heavier scenes are balanced with lighter, softer visuals. Dark, high-contrast moments shift into brighter, more hopeful ones. Empty scenes give way to images filled with supportive figures. These choices reflect the survivor’s path toward healing and inner peace.