When Cassandra Hay learned about the devastating earthquakes in Türkiye and northern Syria, she wondered what she could do. “I study and make art, that’s what I do best,” said Hay, 20, an animation student at the Emily Carr University of Art and Design in Vancouver.

Knowing that many people were using Zoom for meetings, Hay decided to make images honouring Türkiye and Syria that could be purchased for use as Zoom backgrounds. Hay is donating half of the proceeds of the purchases to Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR), to help provide emergency supplies and shelter, and support repair and rehabilitation efforts.

“I wanted to show the beautiful landscapes and nature of those countries,” she said. noting she also made a background of sunflowers to support CLWR’s work in Ukraine. “It was a way to use art to support people affected by the earthquakes and war,” said Hay, who is from Winnipeg and a member of Grace Lutheran Church in that city.

So far, she has sold several backgrounds already, including to two businesses which have made them available to their employees for Zoom backgrounds. 

One business that bought her backgrounds is Bento Engine, a U.S. based financial investment company. “I was moved by her dedication to this cause and wanted to contribute in any way I could,” said Charlotte Ketelaar, Chief of Staff at the company. “The backgrounds are beautiful and well-designed, and we have been using it in Bento’s virtual meetings to raise awareness about the fundraiser and the work that Cassandra is doing,” she said, adding, “It has been a wonderful conversation starter in my virtual meetings.” 

Ketelaar meets approximately 50 to 100 people each week; around 95 percent of them have commented on the Zoom background of a beautiful sunflower field, she said. “It’s amazing how a simple change in scenery can positively impact someone’s mood and set the tone for a productive meeting,” she noted. “The sunflower background never fails to brighten up everyone’s day and make our meetings more enjoyable.”

For Hay, the experience of making the backgrounds shows that anyone can do something to help others in need. “I have gifts and skills in art, so I can do that to raise funds,” she said. “It’s a way to show I care.”

Along with backgrounds for Türkiye and Syria, Hay has made one to support CLWR’s work in Ukraine. To see Cassandra’s work, visit purposefulcolour.com. 

A big thank you to Cassandra and to everyone across the country who are using their creativity and skills to make a difference through CLWR!