Participatory architecture for community empowerment – Joana Dabaj

About: Joana Dabaj, is an architect, urban designer and researcher. She is co-founder of CatalyticAction a charity registered in England and Wales that works to empower communities through strategic and innovative community-led spatial interventions. She has valuable experience in architecture in development, sustainable design, cultural heritage, migration and human rights in the Middle East. Her recent work revolves around working closely with displaced and host communities in Lebanon to develop inclusive educational spaces; this includes participatory planning, design and implementation of playgrounds, public spaces and schools.