New Zealand's 'Bureau of Nicknames' (ANZBON)

Product design and development platform Figma has launched Australia and New Zealand's 'Bureau of Nicknames' (ANZBON), with director Angie Bird from TRUCE and Hellions.

Acting as an entirely self-appointed authority, the Bureau was established to shine a light on the Aussie and Kiwi art of nicknaming. Born from Figma’s mission to help teams turn ideas into real products, the project functions as a playful department for the region’s most informal ideas, celebrating the everyday spirit of local creators.

Developed in collaboration with director, Angie “Birdie” Bird, Truce Production Co., and indie shop Hellions, the world of ANZBON unfolds through a series of narrative films, socials, and a microsite dedicated to ensuring every Australian and New Zealander can have their unofficial name officially recognised.

The ambitious product demo showcases Figma’s ability to take a thought from concept to reality by designing, prototyping and bringing an entire fictional organisation to life.
Yosub Kim, director of brand marketing at Figma, said the project was designed to showcase how effortlessly ideas can be built and shared.

“In Australia and New Zealand, nicknames aren’t just nicknames, they’re a love language. They’re given by friends, family, loved ones, and the people who know you well enough to turn a single moment into something that sticks for life.

“ANZBON was born out of that insight as a way to pay homage to the uniquely Aussie and New Zealand sport of nicknaming. It started as a dumb, playful idea, but that’s the whole point. At Figma, we believe the best ideas often start that way. It doesn't have to be perfect to be worth building.”