Unsere Vielfalt. Kölns Stärke.

The Campaign

There was great excitement when our boss, Fabienne, arrived with the news that we had been commissioned to implement a diversity campaign for the City of Cologne. The campaign was titled “Unsere Vielfalt. Kölns Stärke” – a name that reflects not only the heart of the city but also the core values ​​of our own team.

Diversity is, in fact, one of the key strengths of the Allround team; the subject resonated with us more than any other. For years, Fabienne has been a passionate advocate for the recognition of “otherness.” As an Ethiopian who grew up speaking six languages ​​and possesses a profound understanding of intercultural communication, she consistently demonstrates that diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences are not grounds for exclusion, but rather an enrichment for any community. Her commitment extends well beyond the day-to-day operations of our agency – whether through her work with the Cologne Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK), the “Charta der Vielfalt” (Diversity Charter), or the German Diabetes Aid gala – Fabienne brings a clear stance, extensive experience, and a great deal of heart to social discourse.

This perspective also shaped the conceptualization and execution of the campaign. Through a series of workshops, Fabienne guided around 20 participants – drawn from various segments of Cologne’s population – through intensive, thematic sessions. People of diverse backgrounds, religions, sexual identities, age groups, and life experiences came together to co-create a campaign designed not to divide, but to unite. The focus remained firmly on our commonalities – on the very elements that define Cologne as an urban society.

It became clear as early as the first workshop that the identification with Cologne is both strong and emotional. So, why not integrate the city itself into the campaign as a unifying element? Cologne Cathedral – a symbol of home, history, and social cohesion – served as the background motif for the five poster designs. In the foreground: a park bench where genuine encounters took place. Various residents of Cologne were photographed there, engaged in conversation – natural, authentic, and unposed.

The shoot was a real highlight. The atmosphere on set was warm, open, and full of energy. The participants not only had fun, but also felt that they were part of something significant. The resulting images capture precisely this atmosphere – they convey diversity, closeness, and authenticity. It was moving to see how quickly trust developed and how each individual was able to contribute their own unique strengths.

The campaign sends a clear message in support of lived diversity in Cologne. It demonstrates that inclusion is not merely a political goal, but a human need. And it proves that creative work is most effective when it is rooted in real stories, real people, and genuine conviction.

We are proud to have been part of this project – and grateful for the opportunity to contribute, through our work, to an open, respectful, and diverse urban society.

Information about the campaign on the City of Cologne’s website