Description:

The IwishIcould project is a participatory design initiative that aims to create a supportive community for self-expression and emotional well-being. It recognises the importance of emotional health and the challenges individuals face in expressing their true thoughts and feelings due to societal pressures. To address this, the project developed a platform that provides an inclusive and relatable environment for open sharing without fear of judgment or stigma.

Through extensive customer and user research, the project gained valuable insights into the needs and experiences of individuals struggling with emotional expression.
This research highlighted the impact of societal expectations on people's ability to freely share their stories and emotions. Armed with these insights, I set out to design a solution that would alleviate societal pressures and nurture emotional well-being.
The IwishIcould platform serves as an open forum, allowing individuals to express themselves unfiltered and at their own pace. It fosters inclusivity and relatability, encouraging a sense of community and togetherness. The project recognizes that emotional well-being is a crucial aspect of overall health, and by providing a safe space for expression, it empowers individuals to take control of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

To symbolize the hidden emotions and stories that often go unexpressed, the project draws inspiration from the use of ultraviolet markers. This creative approach enhances creativity, connection, and openness. Users are invited to share their thoughts and stories in this unique environment, the display invites users to, peel off a sticker revealing an empty space just for them, a space to fill with their emotions and stories through phrases, words or pictures. While appearing “invisible”, upon use of ultraviolet light, these hidden expressions are brought to life. Promoting understanding and initiating conversations about emotional well-being expression.

It's understood that its solution is just a small step towards addressing the broader challenges surrounding emotional well-being. However, the aim is to contribute to a positive outcome by creating awareness and fostering dialogue within society. By providing a platform that encourages open expression, the project aims to challenge the societal stigma and pressures surrounding emotional well-being.

In terms of execution, the interface is designed to be accessible and easy to use, facilitating seamless sharing experiences. The IwishIcould project aims to create a supportive community that encourages individuals to freely express themselves. Through its inclusive and relatable platform, it seeks to alleviate societal pressures surrounding emotional well-being. By using ultraviolet markers as a symbolic representation of hidden emotions, the project enhances creativity, connection, and openness. With responsible execution and thorough evaluation, the project strives to contribute to positive outcomes in society and foster a better understanding of emotional well-being expression.