Area 23 honours the spirit of Gavião Kyikatejê Futebol Clube

Developed by Brazilian creatives at the U.S.-based agency Area 23, with production by Balma Films and animation by Dirty Work, this striking mixed-media film celebrates the origins and energy of Gavião Kyikatejê Futebol Clube.  

Blending playful, stylised live-action scenes of the team, their supporters, and surrounding landscape with painterly and dynamic animated vignettes, the film highlights the resilience and power of the first professional Brazilian team founded within an Indigenous community.

Directed by Faga Melo, Gustavo Leal, and Luiz Whately, the campaign reframes the meaning of the phrase “time de índios” (“team of Indians”), combining strong artistic direction, visual craft, and cultural respect into a memorable celebration of identity and achievement. 

It also led to the team being officially shortlisted for “Team of the Year” at the Clio Sports Awards, marking a historic milestone for both football and Indigenous representation on the global stage.