Katimavik is a Canadian nonprofit youth service organization founded in 1977, whose name comes from the Inuktitut word for “meeting place” or “gathering together.”[1] The organization’s visual identity has evolved over the years, most recently with a comprehensive brand refresh introduced in June 2024.[2]
Design and History
Katimavik’s long-standing logo featured a simple geometric mark: a full circle above a semi-circle, with the word “Katimavik” displayed below the circle and above the semi-circle.[3] This design was widely recognized in its orange and green color scheme, described by one observer as “a circle with a line underneath.”[4]
In June 2024, Katimavik introduced a new brand identity designed by the Montreal agency Upperkut, developed through a co-creation approach.[5] The refresh was undertaken to better reflect the organization’s mission and future aspirations while preserving the essence of its original identity.[6] The new identity was launched under the slogan “Aider la jeunesse à trouver le Nord” (“Helping youth find their North”).[7]
The 2024 redesign included an updated logo, new colors, and a renewed website.[6] According to Upperkut, the new visual identity respects Katimavik’s heritage while offering modern graphic flexibility.[7] Various graphic elements reminiscent of the former brand image were made available to ease the transition to the new identity.[5]
Meaning and Symbolism
The organization’s name itself carries the core meaning behind its identity. Katimavik translates from Inuktitut as “meeting place,” a concept that reflects the organization’s mission of bringing young Canadians together from diverse communities across the country.[3] The organization describes its purpose as helping young adults and organizations build a more united Canada.[8]
Regarding the 2024 identity, Katimavik stated that the new brand symbolizes its commitment to helping young people find their direction and reach their full potential.[5] The addition of vibrant colors was designed to allow a variety of combinations that highlight authentic content created by young participants.[5]
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