Final Product
Overview
This project started as a recommendation from someone in my network who saw an opportunity to better visualize the MEHKO process. The goal was to create a short animated piece that could explain the program in a way that felt clear, approachable, and easy to follow.
MEHKO (Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations) is a California-based program that enables individuals to legally run small food businesses from their homes. Organizations like the COOK Alliance support this work by advocating for food equity and empowering home cooks to build sustainable, community-rooted businesses.
I collaborated closely with the creative team, contributing to the overall direction while working one-on-one with a team lead to shape the animation.
The final piece was delivered and is currently in its final stages, with minor refinements underway.
The Challenge
MEHKO programs involve multiple steps, regulations, and stakeholders, which makes them difficult to communicate through text alone. The goal of the project was to translate that information into visuals that guide viewers through the process in a clear and engaging way.
The animation needed to simplify the information while still maintaining accuracy and making the process feel approachable.
Process
Script & Storyboarding
The creative team provided the script outlining the narrative of the animation. From there, I began sketching frame concepts and building a storyboard to map out how each part of the script would translate visually.
This phase focused on pacing, scene structure, and making sure the story flowed naturally from one step to the next.
Design & Illustration
Once the storyboard was approved, I began solidifying the visual direction and building the assets in Adobe Illustrator.
This stage included creating:
• illustrated scenes
• icons and graphic elements
• modular components that could be animated later
• icons and graphic elements
• modular components that could be animated later
All assets were built as layered vector artwork so they could move smoothly into animation.
Animation
The illustrations were then imported into After Effects where the animation process began.
Using After Effects and animation plugins, I built the motion for each scene. The goal was to keep the animation clean and intentional so viewers could easily follow the process being explained.
After the core animation was complete, I added texture, lighting, and visual filters to give the piece a more polished and cohesive look.
Voiceover & Final Assembly
To complete the piece, I sourced a professional voice actor through Fiverr to record the narration. The voiceover was integrated with the animation to match the pacing of each scene.
The final animation was then assembled and delivered to the team for review.
Outcome
The completed animation was submitted to the team as a full draft of the MEHKO explainer piece. While there are still a few edits and refinements that could improve the project, the core animation and visual system are complete.
Because I worked on this project while also working full time, and the creative team had their own busy schedules, we ultimately delivered the piece in its current form within the available time constraints.
I’m still interested in continuing to refine the project in the future, as there are several opportunities to further polish the motion and expand on the visuals.
