If you swing through a McDonald’s and spot a tall, fuzzy Grimace with a milkshake goatee grinning back at you, chances are you’re looking at the work of a Vancouver Island teenager.
A creative teenager from Mill Bay is being recognized for her artwork after it was selected to appear on McDonald’s Canada packaging as part of a new campaign celebrating employee talent.
Kaitlynn, an employee at the Mill Bay McDonald’s location, is one of 17 team members from across the country chosen to take part in Made at McDonald’s—a campaign that highlights the artistic talents, personal stories, and passions of staff working behind the counter.
Her submission features a playful interpretation of Grimace, the beloved purple character from McDonald’s lore, drawn in her signature style.
“One of my favourite things to draw is tall fuzzy characters that manifest warmth and whimsy,” Kaitlynn told Victoria Buzz. “Drawing Grimace was the perfect opportunity for me, and it was super enjoyable.”
The campaign turns everyday customer experiences into what the company calls “vibrant celebrations of individuality,” showcasing designs on product packaging and in-restaurant displays across Canada.
Kaitlynn described the approval process as a series of exciting milestones, culminating in a moment of celebration.
“When I officially won, I jumped for joy in my bedroom,” she said.
Although she enjoys mixing up her McDonald’s order, one item remains a consistent favourite. “I always enjoy an Oreo McFlurry with added fudge,” she said.
“I believe Grimace would love it!”
When asked what her artwork might look like as a Happy Meal toy, Kaitlynn suggested a squeezable Grimace fidget toy—complete with a milkshake goatee.
Her coworkers at the Mill Bay location have rallied behind her success.
“Everyone is super excited about the campaign,” she said. “But no one has asked for my autograph. Not yet anyway!”
Despite her artwork now appearing nationwide, Kaitlynn remains humble. “Oh, nothing could make me famous,” she said.
“I am a very simple person.”
Outside of her job and creative pursuits, Kaitlynn stays active in the community by volunteering at her local church and with the Brain on Wheels Rehab Society.
She recently took part in a scooter rodeo event, which she said was “just as fun as it sounds.”
If given the opportunity to paint a mural at McDonald’s, Kaitlynn said she’d design a cheerful scene featuring Grimace walking with an ice cream cone under an umbrella as French fries rain from the sky.
And when asked what McDonald’s item she would turn into a piece of art, she didn’t hesitate: “I would totally make a castle made out of French fries.”
McDonald’s says approximately 60% of its workforce is under the age of 25, and the Made at McDonald’s campaign is part of its ongoing effort to be recognized as one of Canada’s top employers for youth.
