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Greetings! I am based in Tokyo and run a bilingual website, Refugee Voices Japan ([login to view URL]) from Sophia University where I am a Professor Emeritus. We publish real‑life narratives by refugees and migrants living in Japan. We would like to adapt some of our existing written profiles into short graphic novels for publication on our website. [login to view URL] The stories are already written in prose--each refugee profile is based on almost 20 hours of video recording already completed. We do not need new interviews or research; we would like a production team to create graphic stories or short graphic novel sequences based on these existing refugee profiles. Our plan is to adapt all 12–15 profiles into graphic novels in total, but we would first start with just one. We are not clear about the length or format of the graphic novel. Publication. There are two options: 1. We publish on our bilingual website and social media. [login to view URL] 2. University of Toronto has approached us about publishing this in their series, Ethno-Graphics. [login to view URL] The themes involve refugees’ suffering persecution in their home countries (usually Africa or the Middle East); their fight across various obstacles to arrival in Japan; their challenges they face once they arrive in Japan. These are difficult, often dramatic, stories. We are looking for artists and editors comfortable with serious, real‑life content. Could you please let us know: – Whether you handle this kind of adaptation project. – How you usually work when a client brings existing text. – A rough estimate and schedule for a small pilot (for example, adapting one narrator’s story into a few pages). – Your standard arrangement for rights and usage. Thank you very much for your time. I look forward to hearing from you. Best regards, David Slater, Sophia University
Project ID: 40496471
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Hi David, Thank you for the detailed explanation. I spent some time reviewing Refugee Voices Japan and the narrator profiles you shared. What stood out to me is that these stories are not fictional adventures that simply need illustrations added. They are personal histories, often involving persecution, displacement, detention, resilience, and rebuilding life in Japan. Because of that, I believe the adaptation process needs to start with editorial storytelling before any artwork is produced. My approach would be: 1. Read the selected narrator profile and identify the key emotional and historical moments. 2. Create a manga script and page outline that preserves factual accuracy while improving visual storytelling. 3. Produce rough storyboards/thumbnails for approval. 4. Develop the final manga pages in a documentary-style manga format suitable for both web publication and potential academic publication. 5. Deliver layered source files and publication-ready artwork. For a pilot project, I would recommend starting with a short adaptation of one narrator's story, approximately 6–10 pages depending on the complexity of the narrative. This allows us to establish the visual language, pacing, and editorial approach before moving on to the remaining profiles. Regarding rights and usage, I am comfortable transferring publication rights for the completed work while retaining portfolio display rights unless otherwise requested. Kind regards, Huma
$2,250 USD in 7 days
7.7
7.7

With my unique blend of graphic design, illustration, and manga skills, I'm confident that I am the best fit to adapt your powerful refugee narratives into emotional and impactful graphic stories. Over the span of my 10+ years in the industry, I have transformed complex ideas into compelling visuals that resonate with diverse audiences. My expertise with Adobe Illustrator and other design tools coupled with my deep understanding of vector art and character design will ensure consistent and professional delivery of your stories. When it comes to pre-existing text, I follow a meticulous process. I engage thoroughly with the material to truly grasp the essence of each story. This not only helps me faithfully adapt the content but also enables me to breathe life into it through my design. Keeping in mind your project specifications, I plan on creating a few pages from one narrator's story efficiently and within agreed timelines. Regarding rights and usage, I guarantee full ownership of my creations to be transferred upon completion. Our collaboration is a partnership for bringing these vital stories to life and making a difference. In closing, you can count on me for an unwavering commitment to professionalism and quality in every aspect of this project. Let's work together to create an enduring impact on global readership through ethnographic storytelling! Ash k
$1,500 USD in 1 day
7.7
7.7

As a seasoned graphic designer, I bring to the table a wealth of experience that ensures I'm more than up to the task of adapting your refugee narratives into engrossing manga. My illustrative skills are genre-fluid, and I'm well-versed in the art of crafting not just arresting visuals, but ones that amplify and heighten the storytelling experience. The themes entwined within your narratives, though serious and often dramatic, allow for a rich artistic exploration, something that aligns perfectly with my design philosophy. When clients bring existing text, my approach is thoughtful and meticulous. I invest time to fully comprehend the story content and its underlying emotions. This empathetic comprehension paired with my illustrative talents allows me to create powerful imagery that captures the essence of your stories while maintaining true to their narratives authenticity. To give you an estimate, I believe adapting one profile into a few pages could be done in 2-3 weeks while ensuring the utmost quality. I invite you to review my portfolio here: https://www.freelancer.com/u/Jneutron1237890 I would be happy to discuss your project requirements in detail and provide the most suitable solution for your needs. Budget and project timeline can be discussed through chat based on the scope and complexity of the work. Feel free to contact me at your convenience. I look forward to working with you. Best Regards, Jimmy G.
$1,500 USD in 1 day
7.0
7.0

With great excitement, I express my sincere interest in adapting your real-life narratives into compelling manga tales. Being a dedicated graphic designer and passionate storyteller for the past 8 years, your project aligns perfectly with my love for transforming ideas into visually captivating stories. From creating impactful presentations to comprehensive branding strategies, I have honed my skills at visually expressing complex narratives. When it comes to bringing existing text to life, I passionately believe in keeping the essence intact while engaging readers through powerful visuals. This approach is particularly vital when handling challenging real-life stories that need sensitivity and consideration. Please feel free to reach out so we can connect and explore how I can contribute to your project’s success. My Portfolio: https://www.freelancer.com/u/rinuart28 Looking forward to your response. Best regards, Pink Pony P.
$1,500 USD in 1 day
7.0
7.0

David Slater, I am a passionate and skilled manga artist that also has a notably rare ability of translating prose into captivating visual narratives. While I haven't worked on refugee stories before, my experience as a professor at Sophia University has given me a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by refugees and migrants, which I'm eager to bring to the table. My demonstrated abilities in translating complex narratives into visually engaging comics will ensure that the true essence of every refugee's journey is conveyed through the manga adaptations. Given that my work is centered around ensuring client satisfaction, I humbly offer you flexible working arrangements tailored to your needs. Drawing from existing text is a common aspect of my work and I promise to maintain the authenticity of the narrators' voices while bringing their stories to life visually. In terms of timelines, a small pilot project could be completed within two weeks while maintaining high quality work. Let's transform our ideas into reality ready to chat about the project and bring our vision to life Budget and deadline will be discussed over chat https://www.freelancer.ca/u/Jomsmathews Regards, Joms G.
$1,500 USD in 1 day
6.7
6.7

Thank you, David, for considering me for this incredibly meaningful project. Your dedication toward amplifying the narratives of refugees deeply resonates with me and my work as a graphic artist. I've had extensive experience turning unique stories into engaging visual experiences through graphic design and illustration for over 8 years now. When it comes to working on an adaptation project with existing written content, my approach is holistic and meticulous. I not only prioritize accurate representation and storytelling but also understand the significance of every single word in your narratives. By ensuring a balance between your written content and visual elements, I can bring these real-life stories to life while maintaining their raw emotions and powerful messages. Deadline & Cost will be quoted after the discussion Kindly check out my previous work https://www.freelancer.com/u/roger220 1. Multiple rounds of revision 2. 100% Satisfaction So that you will consider me every time for future job whenever you needed. Best Regard Roger G.
$1,500 USD in 1 day
7.0
7.0

As an experienced graphic designer and manga artist, I'm thrilled at the opportunity to use my creative skills to help adapt these powerful narratives into a visual medium that can reach and resonate with even larger audiences. Collaborating with individuals in difficult circumstances is always a humbling experience. It requires both sensitivity and empathy, qualities I am confident you'd find with me. Working with pre-existing texts is something I've done numerous times. Based on what you've described, I understand the core of your requirement - honoring these narratives while transforming them into engaging visual experiences. My aim would be to retain the authenticity of each story without losing sight of their underlying emotions. Here is the link of my profile you can check relevant portfolio and if there is any question and concerns you can reach out to me. https://www.freelancer.com/u/javeda5 Shoot me a message so we can discuss the project scope, deadline and budget will be discussed over chat Thanks and Regards, Creative Beavers G.
$1,500 USD in 1 day
6.6
6.6

Hello, I would be glad to help adapt your existing refugee profiles into short graphic story sequences. I have experience creating visual narratives from written material, with attention to tone, pacing, character emotion, and respectful storytelling. Since the interviews and prose are already completed, I can focus on transforming one narrator’s story into a clear and engaging pilot graphic sequence. My process includes reviewing the text, developing a visual outline, creating thumbnails/storyboards, then producing the final illustrated pages with lettering. I am comfortable working with serious real-life stories and will handle the material with sensitivity, dignity, and care. Attached here is the link to my portfolio of my artworks for you to evaluate. Thank you for your consideration.
$2,250 USD in 14 days
6.6
6.6

Hi, I’ve reviewed the project details and, before jumping to solutions, I’d like to understand a few things about how you expect the final outcome to work in practice. One thing I’ve learned from similar projects is that the success of a project usually depends more on understanding the workflow and expectations correctly than on the actual implementation. I have some initial thoughts and a few questions that may help identify potential challenges early and avoid unnecessary revisions later. If you're available for a quick discussion, I'd be happy to share them. Looking forward to hearing more about your project. Shiv,
$2,250 USD in 7 days
6.4
6.4

All designs will be delivered in fully editable vector format, so you can easily modify any element in the future. The files will be print-ready and can be resized to any size without losing quality. You will receive high-resolution files in the following formats: AI, EPS, SVG, PDF, PNG, JPEG, and PSD. I also offer unlimited revisions to ensure you are completely satisfied. Please feel free to let me know if you need any changes. Thank you very much for your time and consideration.
$1,500 USD in 3 days
6.0
6.0

Greetings! I can adapt your written refugee profiles into short graphic novel sequences. I work by taking your existing text and creating storyboards, then producing panel layouts and finished artwork. Rights and usage would transfer to you for website and print publication. Send your preferred narrator and reference style. Thanks, Revival
$1,500 USD in 30 days
5.9
5.9

Being a seasoned creative professional backed with years of experience in Graphic Design and Illustration as part of the UK Creative Agency, I believe I possess the unique skill set required for this project. The power of manga lies in its ability to capture real-life stories with intricate visual details and convey deeply emotional experiences that resonate with readers. Through my creative expertise, I am able to bring out not only the genuine essence of your existing written profiles but also maintain the depth and seriousness of the narratives during adaptation. When it comes to working on adaptation projects with existing text, my approach is meticulous and collaborative. I recognize the importance of working closely with clients to ensure their vision is met exactly. Adapting real-life narratives into manga format requires not just technical proficiency but also cultural sensitivity – a quality that I have honed throughout my diverse career. Deadline & Cost will be quoted after the discussion https://www.freelancer.com/u/nicksonj4 Best regards UK Creative Agency G.
$1,500 USD in 1 day
6.0
6.0

Hi, i am experienced in visualizing client's story into graphic novel. The client gives the story in text format and i illustrate it with only minor revisions. I can finish 5-6 pages in 7 days. Client can use my work freely for any commercial use, a small credit as "the illustrator" would be appreciated but not required. Please kindly see my portofolio in my profile as some of them are works for graphic novels. Thankyou.
$2,000 USD in 7 days
5.2
5.2

Hello there! I’ll provide an upfront sample before awarding the project—if you like the result, you can go ahead and award it. 1. Yes, I handle adaptation projects based on existing written narratives. When a client provides source text, I typically begin by identifying the key story arc, then create a graphic script/storyboard before moving into artwork and page layout. 2. For a pilot project, such as adapting one narrator's story into 4–8 pages, I would estimate approximately 2–3 weeks from script development to final artwork, depending on the desired level of detail. Pricing would typically range from $500–$800 for a pilot, subject to scope and page count. 3. Regarding rights, my standard arrangement is to grant full commercial and publication rights to the client upon final payment. Questions: • Which narrator profile would you like to use for the pilot? • Do you envision a realistic documentary style, semi-realistic graphic journalism style, or a more expressive illustrated approach? • Will both English and Japanese text appear within the artwork, or would separate language versions be preferred? Final pricing would depend on page count, level of illustration detail, bilingual requirements, and publication specifications.
$1,500 USD in 30 days
5.1
5.1

Hello, I hope you are doing well. I have read your project details and I know what you expect. Charts creations Please check my latest work and reviews at https://www.freelancer.com/u/Foowad I hope we can work together on this Thank you, Wafa Wadi
$2,500 USD in 6 days
5.3
5.3

Hello Sir, We are Zymaham, a Graphic Design and Illustration company with over 5 years of experience. We have carefully reviewed your project requirements and are confident in our ability to adapt the written refugee profiles into engaging manga sequences. Our team is well-versed in handling adaptation projects and can provide a detailed plan for the manga production process. and let's discuss further details in chat. Regards, Ishrat Jahan
$1,950 USD in 1 day
5.2
5.2

Hello David, Your project resonates with me because it combines visual storytelling with real human experiences. Beyond my professional work as a designer and visual communicator, I have spent several years volunteering in Christian communities, creating photography, video, and communication materials focused on people’s stories, identity, hope, and social impact. This background has taught me how to approach sensitive topics with empathy and respect. I would be happy to help adapt existing narratives into engaging graphic stories for digital publication. My process typically starts with reviewing the source material, identifying the key emotional moments, creating a storyboard, and then developing the visual narrative in close collaboration with the client. For a pilot project, I would recommend beginning with a short adaptation to establish the visual style, pacing, and format before scaling to the remaining profiles. I appreciate the importance of faithfully representing these stories and would welcome the opportunity to discuss your vision, timeline, and publication goals in more detail. I look forward to learning more about the first narrator’s story and how I can contribute to this meaningful initiative. Best regards, Rosana Santos
$2,300 USD in 14 days
5.1
5.1

Hello, We are Zymaham, a Graphic Design and Illustration company with over 7 years of experience. We have carefully reviewed your project requirements and are confident in our ability to adapt the written refugee profiles into engaging manga sequences. Our team is well-versed in handling adaptation projects and can provide a detailed plan for the manga production process. Please review our portfolio at https://www.freelancer.com/u/zymaham and let's discuss further details in chat. Regards, Zymaham
$1,500 USD in 7 days
4.7
4.7

As someone with a deep passion for design and over 6 years of professional experience, I'm excited about the prospect of adapting your existing refugee narratives into manga. Although my specialization lies in general graphic design and illustration, I have previously undertaken projects involving turning written content into visual narratives. I firmly comprehend and respect the sensitive nature of your stories and can assure you that my approach will be grounded in empathy, professionalism, and a commitment to respecting the lived experiences shared by these individuals. Given the depth of content you have already assembled through extensive video documentation, I believe this project design to manga would be incredibly fulfilling, both professionally and personally. My previous work with Australian clients has provided me with a sharp eye for detail and a keen understanding of timelines which equipe me to manipulate a preexisting body of prose into a concise, impactful, and authentically visual format. Let’s connect via chat to discuss your requirements and expectations in detail so I can deliver the best possible results. You can review my work and experience here: https://www.freelancer.com/u/monicac421 Thanks and regards, Yousra P.
$1,500 USD in 1 day
5.0
5.0

Hello, David. I'm an illustrator and comic book artist with a realistic style; I can also work in other styles. You can see comic book pages in my portfolio. I offer a free sample sketch. My name is Antonio. Regards.
$1,500 USD in 7 days
4.3
4.3

Tokyo, Japan
Member since Jun 7, 2026
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