Digital Video Animator for Step-by-Step (SbS) – Adolescent Adaptation

Background on Step-by-Step

Step-by-Step (SbS) is an evidence-based, self-help digital mental health intervention developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) at the Ministry of Public Health in Lebanon. It is implemented in Lebanon in partnership with Embrace. SbS aims to support individuals experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety through a five-session self-help program that is available through a mobile app or website.

The program uses a guided storytelling format along with illustrations to introduce users to practical techniques such as behavioural activation, stress management, and problem-solving. The original adult version of SbS features a cartoon-character story divided into an introduction and five sessions, each including around the narrative follows a relatable character’s journey and challenges, making psychological techniques more engaging and easier to apply.

As part of the adaptation of Step-by-Step for adolescents aged 14–17, the project requires the production of animated video content to visually present therapeutic techniques and story-based interactions in an engaging, developmentally appropriate, and culturally sensitive way.

Objective of the Position:

The Video Animator will be responsible for animating a series of videos for the adolescent version of the Step-by-Step intervention, based on pre-existing illustrated characters and backgrounds.

The objective of the animated videos is to:

• Enhance adolescents’ understanding of therapeutic techniques through visual demonstration
• Increase user engagement and retention within the application
• Ensure consistency and continuity between illustrations, characters, and animated content
• Provide both short and extended versions of key exercises to accommodate different user needs

Animation Scope:

The animator will be responsible for producing the following animated content:

1. Session-Based Story Animations

• 6 animated videos, one per session
• Approximate duration: 1.5 minutes per video
• Videos will feature interactions between 5 main adolescent characters and one adult character already designed
• Animations will follow the approved storyline and session objectives

2. Psychoeducational Technique Animations (images, texts and sign language)

For each of the following techniques:

• Breathing exercise
• Grounding exercise

The animator will produce:

• One short version (~2 minutes)
• One long version (~4 minutes)

Characters and Settings

Characters

• A total of 6 main characters interacting throughout the animations
• Character illustrations are already available and must be strictly adhered to

Backgrounds / Locations

Animations will be set within pre-approved backgrounds, including but not limited to:

• Bedrooms and other rooms in the home
• Staircases and living areas
• School playground and classroom
• Green spaces
• Workplace
• Roads, sidewalks, and outdoor urban settings

Backgrounds will be reused across scenes to ensure visual consistency and efficiency.

Coordination and Collaboration

• The animator is expected to coordinate closely with the existing illustrator to ensure visual consistency between static illustrations and animated content
• Ongoing coordination with the SbS Project Coordinator is required throughout the assignment
• The animator may be asked to make revisions based on feedback from:
  • Project team
  • NMHP Committee
  • Advisory board members
  • Adolescent focus group discussions

Specs:

Video specs:

• Resolution: For Vertical  1080 × 1920 px (Full HD, 9:16)
• For Horizontal 1920 × 1080 px (Full HD, 16:9)
• Format: MP4 (H.264 codec)
• Frame rate: 25 fps
• Orientation: Horizontal and Vertical 
• Max file size: ≤ 30 MB per animation
• Sign Language to be included in 1 animation video + Breathing and Grounding Videos 
•  

Audio:

• Subtitles required for both English and Arabic
• VO required in both English and Arabic

Responsibilities:

The Video Animator is required to:

1. Animation Development

• Review session content and psychoeducational scripts provided by the project team
• Animate characters and scenes using the existing illustrations and approved backgrounds
• Ensure animations are developmentally appropriate, culturally sensitive, and aligned with therapeutic goals

2. Technical Requirements

• Deliver animations in formats compatible with mobile application integration
• Ensure smooth transitions, clear pacing, and accessibility-friendly visuals

3. Communication and Revisions

• Develop and follow an agreed-upon work plan and timeline
• Participate in regular check-ins with the project coordinator
• Implement a story board for each animation and up to two rounds of revisions per video based on consolidated feedback

Minimum Qualifications and Professional Experience:

Education

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in animation, multimedia design, graphic design, or a related field

Experience

• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in animation and video production
• Proven experience producing animated content for adolescents or youth
• Experience in health, mental health, or educational content is a +

Skills:

• Strong 2D animation skills
• Ability to animate existing illustrated characters
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Cultural sensitivity and understanding of the Lebanese context
• Ability to work under tight deadlines

Digital Literacy:

• Advanced knowledge of animation and video editing software (e.g., After Effects, Premiere Pro, Toon Boom, or equivalent)
• Proficiency in cloud-based collaboration tools (OneDrive, Google Drive, etc.)
• Comfortable working with remote teams and virtual meetings

Tools:

The animator is expected to use their own equipment (laptop, software, licenses) to complete the assignment.