Throughout history, migrants have left their homes in search of a better life, making sacrifices along the way in hopes of one day seeing their descendants experience things they never could. These stories often pull at our heartstrings, as we learn of the struggles of migrant families and are inspired by how far they’ve come. 

A new Olympics ad from Air Canada pulls at these same heartstrings, as it tells the story of a Jamaican father who struggles to scrounge up cash in Trelawny to move to Canada for a better life. 

An emotional spot by agency FCB Canada titled “Ticket to Dream” follows two journeys across time: a young couple trying to move to Canada from Jamaica for a brighter future, and an athlete living in Canada determined to achieve her Olympic dreams. The two narratives run in parallel before revealing a twist: the athlete is the young couple’s daughter, and her dream was made possible through her parents’.

A father recalls his struggles to make his dream happen before her birth as he watches her compete in the Olympics. 

Also read: British Airways’ new cabin safety video plays like an episode of ‘Bridgerton’

The campaign kicks off Air Canada’s wider Olympic and Paralympic campaign, which will premiere on TV, cinema and online on July 26.

“Starting over in a new country requires hard work, determination and strength—the very same qualities needed to become an Olympian or Paralympian,” said Jeremiah McNama, executive creative director at FCB Toronto. “Both travel and the Games are about pursuing dreams, and through this spot we’re showcasing Air Canada’s role in both of those journeys.”

“Ticket to Dream” will run in 30-, 60- and 90-second versions on TV during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, while the 90-second spot will run in cinemas between July 26 and Aug. 11. All formats, including a two-minute (above) and 15-second, will be available to stream online and on social media. Canadians can also see the spot at the airport, in-flight and at the Canada Olympic House in Paris.  

More Creativity coverage from Ad Age:

• Nike’s Olympics campaign explores the winner’s mindset.
• See this week’s top 5 campaigns.
• Channel 4 made a hard-hitting Paris 2024 Paralympics ad.
• 15 hidden gems among the Cannes Lions winners.
• Meet the interns who won gold in Cannes for a poop joke.
• Nick Cohen looks back at Mads Dogs & Englishmen.

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