Bridging worlds of care

This research collaboration brings together researchers from LMU Munich and Stellenbosch University to strengthen collaboration in participatory and qualitative research on women’s health. It focuses on co-creation, equity, and transdisciplinary learning, and lays the foundation for a long-term international partnership.

The project explores how care can be understood not only as a topic, but as a guiding principle for research practice—methodologically, ethically, and relationally. It connects complementary traditions in qualitative and participatory research and links teaching, methodological exchange, and community engagement.

A central aim is to amplify women’s voices across different contexts and to create spaces for sharing experiences of care, resilience, and wellbeing. The project places particular emphasis on community knowledge, including perspectives on gender-based violence, trauma, and healing.

Activities include collaborative workshops in South Africa and Germany, online exchange formats, research stays, and joint teaching initiatives. Participatory and arts-based methods such as photovoice, body mapping, and storytelling are used to foster dialogue and co-analysis among researchers, students, and community partners.

The project aims to strengthen methodological innovation, support early-career researchers, and contribute to sustainable international collaboration in participatory health research.

This project is funded by the LMU-Stellenbosch University Research Cooperation Program.