WINGS Design Program 2024

Hosted at beSocial Charlotte

The Jordan WINGS Design Program champions the belief that everyone can fly by fostering equal access opportunities for youth, empowering them to unlock their creativity through educational programming and immersive experiences.

In partnership with, Carolina Youth Coalition—a non-profit organization that nurtures high-achieving, under-resourced students to and through college—and Rise 2 Impact, a non-profit organization providing academic counseling and community outreach to inspire young boys of color to dream beyond limits, the Jordan WINGS Design Program nestled at beSocial Charlotte.

This opportunity provided students time to elevate their creativity and hone their design skills by designing for the 2024 Jumpman Invitational to be worn by staff, Swarm team, and two official game night fan t-shirts.

Over the course of four weeks, students participated in a design program, working collaboratively twice a week in four teams to craft unique creations for the 2024 Jumpman Invitational. Their projects included two Game night arena t-shirts, a Swarm team t-shirt, and an Arena staff t-shirt.

Students participated in creating designs using the following themes:

City Pride: Create an icon design that represents the city of Charlotte using design elements that make the city unique.

Jordan Heritage: Create an unforgettable design that represents Jordan Brand by diving into the legacy of Michael Jordan and using design cues and language by Jordan Brand.

 

Students received insight from legendary Jordan Brand designer, Israel Mateo, who shared his expertise in design and innovation, while Adam Mock introduced students to the fundamentals of color theory and composition. Additionally, Alesha Wilson, Global Communication and Purpose Lead for Jordan Brand, offered strategic guidance to help them navigate their paths with purpose and clarity. Alongside the team, a roster of notable industry leaders and mentors shared their insights, offering expertise in marketing, design, and the art of pitching by providing tools, strategies, and inspiration needed to thrive.

From the program kick-off to the conceptualization, design process, and experiential visit to Truist in Uptown Charlotte, culminating in final pitch presentations, students gained invaluable insights. With guidance from community leaders, brand designers, and dedicated mentors at every stage of production, participants sharpened their creative skills and experienced firsthand the journey of a professional designer.