A Movember Origin Story: Skateboard Trophy
Every year as a token of our appreciation, we send a skateboard deck trophy to our top US fundraisers and supporters. This skateboard deck trophy represents how Movember was started – from a conversation after an afternoon skate session. Our community members hang their deck on their wall, put it up in their office to show visitors, give it to their highest donor as a thank you, and some have even thrown some wheels on it to practice their best Tony Hawk impression.
This year we wanted our trophy to be extra special, so we sent out a call of action to our community to submit their best skateboard artwork to be featured on the 2022 skateboard trophy. We had over 30 submissions, all of which were incredibly unique, fun, striking, and outstanding works of art that showcased Movember's values. Unfortunately, the Movember Team and the US Community Ambassadors could only pick one winner - we are thrilled to announce Andrew Franklin as the winning artist of the 2022 Movember Skateboard Trophy! We asked Andrew what inspired him to create this specific artwork, and here's what he said:
" Ignoring mental health and other men’s health issues is the typical male response, but not talking about it is no longer an option. "
"Movember really resonates with me as someone who has made that phone call or text that helped keep a friend alive and who has struggled with their own mental health issues. Ignoring mental health and other men’s health issues is the typical male response, but not talking about it is no longer an option. That is why Movember’s initiatives are so important. I look forward to fundraising for Movember every year and using it to help spread awareness. Every one of us has some male figure in their lives that is special to them and for the skateboard deck design, I wanted to create something to showcase all of the different roles men play in all of our lives. When someone suggested that I include other languages as well is when I thought I really had something that would resonate with all of the Mo Bros and Mo Sisters out there. I am very happy to have my design chosen and be able to contribute to Movember in this way. I would like to extend an early congratulations to all of those who will be top donors this year and receive one of these decks, I hope you like it!"
To everyone who submitted their artwork - we honestly can't thank you enough for taking the time to create such powerful and inspiring works of art. We are honored to have you as part of our Movember community. Our community is at the center of everything we do - and we appreciate each and every one of you.