Amandla Wethu: an empowerment centre for women who have suffered trauma

Abstract

There has been a rise in gender-based violence around the world. In South Africa, the rate of gender-based violence is 5 times higher than the global average. This study aims to examine the question of spaces of healing and empowerment for GBV victims in South Africa. It will investigate what kind of architectural typology can attempt to mitigate and address the complex and multifaceted problem of GBV to both heal and empower victims through the study of literature, interviews with experts and government reports. It will also critique the existing institutions that help victims of GBV or the lack thereof. The report will include a proposed design of an Empowerment Centre for women who have suffered trauma. The building will act as a place of healing, a place of empowerment and a place of learning. The facility will aim to enhance the experience of certain types of physical space to promote different types of psychological feelings. Victims of abuse and gender-based violence need a facility with specialized spaces to heal and reclaim their power. This project aims to create a facility that centralises the services provided to victims of GBV. This will allow a single representative to be assigned to the victim who will lead the victim through the various processes thus making it easier for survivors of GBV to seek assistance