With 19 locations in Europe, Café Joyeux was created to provide meaningful employment opportunities to individuals with intellectual disabilities and promote inclusion in the workplace. To announce the opening of their first-ever location in the US, Café Joyeux wanted to bring their mission to life by tapping into a real employee story to show that employment opportunities offered to these individuals need to be just as amazing as they are. Our objective was to ensure that every aspect of our film was made with the Down syndrome community to authentically bring the mission of Café Joyeux to life. This approach not only fosters a more accurate representation of the Down syndrome experience but also celebrates the diverse talents and perspectives within the community, ultimately creating a film that is not just a product but an expression of inclusion.

Inspired by a true story, “47” is Café Joyeux’s completely hand-made, animated stop-motion film created not just for, but by the Down syndrome community. Every aspect, from music, to voiceover, to character design is created with individuals with and touched by Down syndrome. Our film follows the life of Robert, a man with Down syndrome. Rejected by others as a child, he embarks on a personal journey symbolized by a raft. Along the way, he faces challenges that represent different life stages. In these scenarios, he recognizes that the world simply isn't ready to recognize his greatness and continues his odyssey. Finally, at age 47, he finds acceptance and purpose at Café Joyeux, a place where the world finally embraces his extraordinary abilities. The film is a heartwarming tale of resilience, acceptance, and inclusion.

Our strategy was to ensure that every aspect of our film was made with the Down syndrome community to authentically bring the mission of Café Joyeux to life. This approach not only fosters a more accurate representation of the Down syndrome experience but also celebrates the diverse talents and perspectives within the community, ultimately creating a film that is not just a product but an expression of inclusion.

The implementation began with research and interviews with the Down syndrome community, followed by script development, storyboard creation, and building of intricate miniature sets and puppets. Over six months, frame by frame, animators meticulously brought characters to life through detailed manipulation. Post-production involved editing, sound design and music integration. Online placement of the film, as well as its universal message and themes, this film resonates globally.

The film contributes to a positive brand perception for Café Joyeux by associating the organization with its commitment to creating inclusive work environments and providing employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The film also raises awareness of Café Joyeux so consumers can purchase coffee that directly supports the community and visit their global locations. Additionally, the film encourages and empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities to apply for jobs that place them front and center, fully recognizing and celebrating their full potential.

The film contributes to a positive brand perception for Café Joyeux by associating the organization with its commitment to creating inclusive work environments and providing employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The film also raises awareness of Café Joyeux so consumers can purchase coffee that directly supports the individuals with intellectual disabilities community, and learn about and visit their global locations. Additionally, the film encourages and empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities to apply for jobs that place them front and center, fully recognizing and celebrating their full potential.