Hello! Nice of you to drop by, we hope we get to meet you one day.

Working Progress

Founded on the belief that animation can be a force for positive change, we help mission-driven organisations tell their stories with clarity, empathy and impact.

What we do

Short animations, visual explainers and narrative films that make complex ideas clear, relatable and memorable.

Who we work with

  • Charities & foundations
  • Health & wellbeing organisations
  • Research teams & community groups
  • Purpose-led companies, including B Corps and social enterprises

Why it works

  • We translate complexity into empathy without flattening meaning.
  • We design with intention so visuals strengthen — not overpower — the message.
  • We focus on reach and usability: shareable, culturally sensitive, and audience-first.

Get in touch

If you’re exploring a new project or want to test an idea, we’d love to talk. Please contact Fiona to find out more: fiona@workingprogress.studio

Meet the founders:

Fiona Lishman

Before Working Progress was set up, Fiona worked at charity specialist agencies, delivering some of the largest charity direct marketing programmes in the sector. Previous clients have included Stroke Association, Plan International and Marie Curie and she has led account management teams through pitches, campaigns and the everyday running of very busy charity accounts.

After years of working in agency settings, Fiona decided it was time to take control of her own destiny. At the same time, Merlin was thinking of setting up a new animation studio working with not for profits, so there was a natural fit. Without further ado, Working Progress was born and is growing into a mighty force for good.

As Managing Partner, Fiona looks after all things production, client services and new business, making sure jobs run smoothly and that clients are happy. Feel free to get in touch fiona@workingprogress.studio if you have a project in mind or you’d just like a chat. She might even make you a cup of tea.

Merlin Nation

Merlin — Creative Director & Co-Founder

Merlin is a designer, creative director and animator with 25+ years’ experience. His work has won an interactive BAFTA, Promax BDA Gold and Design Week Best in Show.

Inspired by Greenpeace’s Save The Arctic campaign, he co-founded Working Progress with Fiona in 2016 to apply creative work mission-driven organisations making positive change.

Selected highlights

  • Judged animation at D&AD (2019) and is an annual judge for Creative Conscience.
  • Mentors emerging creatives and has spoken at events including GoodFest and Creative Conscience.
  • Experienced at turning complex ideas into clear, empathetic storytelling for positive change.

Outside the studio

  • Enjoys cycling, wild swimming, making art, growing veg and playing music with family and friends.

He’s grateful to do this work and excited about the studio’s future as it builds on its founding purpose.

merlin@workingprogress.studio