My project is the Word of Mouth Co-op Magazine, a community-driven publication that merges digital and print media to amplify diverse voices and foster meaningful discussions. We aim to create a platform where artists and everyday people can share their stories and insights on culture and social issues. To bring this vision to life, we will utilize print and digital mediums. We’ve gathered rich content for first two editions, including personal stories, art, poetry, fashion, photography, and recipes. Now, we need to focus on design, printing, and enhancing our digital presence. Inspiration will come from successful community-driven media projects and art that bridges cultural and generational gaps. What kind of impact—artistic, intellectual, communal, civic, social, political, environmental —do you hope your project will have? Our magazine aims to make a strong communal and social impact. Artistically, we want to elevate underrepresented voices and provide a platform for diverse perspectives. Intellectually, we hope to spark meaningful conversations and encourage critical thinking. Socially and civically, we envision a more connected community where people feel empowered to share their stories and engage in dialogue. Politically, we seek to promote inclusivity and raise awareness on important issues, contributing to a more equitable society. Our magazine aspires to drive positive change through art and discourse.
About Word of Mouth Co-Op Magazine
My curiosity and passion for community engagement inspired the creation of Word of Mouth Co-op Magazine, a collaborative platform dedicated to amplifying diverse voices and fostering genuine connections. The magazine is built on the idea that storytelling, shared knowledge, and creativity can bring people together in meaningful ways.
Word of Mouth is a community-driven, cooperative publication that gives contributors—from writers and visual artists to everyday people—a platform to share their stories, art, and insights without the influence of algorithms or corporate agendas. Our goal is to create an inclusive space where content is shaped by the very people it serves.
The magazine operates as a co-op, meaning that everyone involved—whether as readers, contributors, or community members—has a voice in its direction. We blend the best of both worlds by offering print editions for those who love tangible content, alongside digital formats and social media interactions. Through tools like Instagram polls and community feedback, we ensure our content reflects the interests and needs of our audience.
Think of it like a 90s/2000s lifestyle magazine, but with contributions from community-centered individuals. Each feature includes QR codes linking directly to the creator’s digital content or website, offering an interactive experience that goes beyond the page. We also spotlight local events and opportunities, encouraging readers to connect with their communities in person.
Ultimately, Word of Mouth is more than a magazine—it’s a cooperative hub where stories are shared, ideas are explored, and everyone benefits from the exchange. We will achieve this project by having a social media campaign that brings people from socials, using funding to make the website , print the magazines , and operational cost.
First Editions Cover
First Editions Cover
With the Imagination Fund’s support, we can complete our first editions, build a solid foundation for future growth, and ensure that every voice is heard and every story is told with the depth it deserves.
With the Imagination Fund’s support, we can complete our first editions, build a solid foundation for future growth, and ensure that every voice is heard and every story is told with the depth it deserves.
How do you want to grow as a designer, artist and maker?
How do you want to grow as a designer, artist and maker?
I hope to enhance my skills in videography and storytelling to become a more effective interviewer and content creator. I would love to learn to video edit . The Fund could support this growth by providing resources for operational expenses like editor staff , upgrading our technology, including new mics, cameras, and lighting equipment, which will improve our digital content quality. Access to tools like Wix for our website and Adobe Cloud for design work will ensure our magazine’s visual and digital elements are of the highest standard. Additionally, learning advanced videography techniques through courses and workshops will refine my storytelling abilities, making our content more engaging and impactful.
Example of Magazine Pages
Example of Magazine Pages
Chuyan
Chuyan
Chuyan owns a boutique that specialize in finding historically accurate and approachable Chinese attire sourced from smaller and indie brands. She has given us permission to use her research and powerpoint on traditional chinese fashion to be added in the culture section of the magazine . These pages will have small facts and information and a QR codes directing them to Chuyan research ,ITS FREE, why not direct them right to where you found your information. Thats the point of Word of Mouth Co-Op. It's somewhere between a fun quirky directory and a general interest magazine
Zena Toxine
Zena Toxine
Zena, the owner of a bi-annual community zine called FrankenZine, has graciously donated several pages from her latest edition, Coping in Community. Across our social media, we’re sharing her call for artists, encouraging submissions for upcoming issues. In our community, there’s no competition—just collaboration. We hope readers will see Zena’s featured pages, and those who are interested will be inspired to explore the full FrankenZine. The goal of our magazine isn’t for everything to cater to personal preferences, but for everyone to find at least one page that sparks their interest, helping them discover something new simply for the joy of exploration.
We have the content , we just need the tools to do it right
We have the content , we just need the tools to do it right
Over the last 8 months, I have been creating a diverse digital and print media platform with one goal: to bring people together, ask questions, and learn how to build community. Word of Mouth Co-op Magazine aims to be the voice of the global community, free from advertising bias and sponsor influence. It celebrates everyday experiences and social issues through a lifestyle magazine format, featuring word searches, recipes, and individual responses. We all say we want this kind of community, but now it’s time to show it.
Community means participation—experiencing new things, giving back when you can, sharing tips or resources, going to concerts, living life.
Over these past months, I’ve been working on a project that’s become deeply personal—creating a platform that invites people from all walks of life to share their stories and perspectives. We've gathered content for the first few editions, but the truth is, we’re struggling with the technology to bring it to life. This magazine’s mission is about more than just publishing. It’s about you—your stories, your recipes, your experiences. Whether you’re sharing a tip, a piece of art, or a personal story, you are part of this community.
Word of Mouth Co-op Magazine is a space where everyday voices come together to create something beautiful—without the noise of corporate advertising. But community means more than just belonging; it’s about contributing, sharing, and being actively engaged.
Right now, our biggest hurdle is a lack of updated technology and ethical labor practices. Everything has been volunteer-based, and we’re working with a 10-year-old Macs, a donated microphone, and minimal storage space. As a result, editing video and content has slowed to a crawl, making it hard to properly showcase the incredible work our contributors have submitted. Previously, co-op tasks could be completed on a very part-time basis, but the demands of editing now require a more substantial time commitment. While we rely on volunteers, we are committed to ethical practices and believe in fairly compensating our editing staff and artists for their hard work, Community is mutual.
To build something meaningful, we need participation, and that means coming together to support each other—whether by contributing content or helping us secure the resources we need to keep moving forward.
