Zywa is the first payment app and card designed for the next generation (ages 10-25) in MENA. Backed by Y Combinator, the startup raised $3 million in seed funding and is now valued at nearly $30 million.

Targeting the UAE’s diverse Gen Z population, Zywa aims to empower teens by offering their own credit cards and exciting ways to earn, spend, and save, without relying on their parents. With 100,000 subscribers and 1,000 brands integrated, Zywa’s initial brand identity supported early market entry but now needed a refresh to reflect the vibrant, dynamic lifestyle of Gen Z.

We were tasked with revitalising Zywa’s brand and visual identity, refreshing its social media presence, and creating bold ideas to drive downloads and user growth. Using the Zywa ‘Z’ logo as a central element, we created a visual identity pulsing with energy and freedom, designed around characters representing UAE Gen Zs. This identity extended to social media with post templates for Instagram and TikTok, promoting Zywa’s rewards, gamified content, and teen credit card.

One standout campaign idea was “ECHO,” a virtual teen nightclub on Instagram Live. Since teens are a major influence on music culture but can’t enter clubs, ECHO provided an authentic experience that also highlighted Zywa’s focus on teen independence. Teens were invited to download the app for access to the event, exclusive content, and rewards on their first transaction, creating a fun, engaging way to increase downloads and build community.