Fostering Health Equity Through Creativity and Collaboration

text: Nicala Zeeman, Dr. Chanelle Mulopo, Ameera Crew & Gwynneth Louw photos: Supplied

Creativity, artistic performances, intentional manifestos, community engagement. These are not the typical things you think of when attending a conference. However, the inaugural CREATE Conference was anything but ordinary. Taking place from 30 Sept - 2 Oct 2025 at the Biomedical Medical Research Institute (BMRI) at Tygerberg Campus, the Creative and Engaged Transdisciplinary Research for Health Equity Conference (CREATE) was a unique and inspiring gathering of activists, community leaders, researchers, artists, and students with one aim in mind: use creativity, innovation, and collaboration to address issues of health equity and revolutionise how we think about research on health equity.

Below we share reflections from CERI team members who attended the conference.

Nicala Zeeman, Public Squares Project Administrator & member of CREATE Conference organising committee

Having the opportunity to attend the CREATE Conference 2025 was an inspiring and thoughtprovoking experience. Unlike traditional academic gatherings, this conference centred around creativity, inclusion, and collaboration as essential aspects for health equity. Something which stood out to me was the manifestos which were created throughout the conference. These manifestos focused on the voices of artists, researchers and community members. The phrases included in these manifestos were led by “We need …” – assisting researchers in including the needs of all in their research.

Having these manifestos in collaboration with the different types of data collection methods – such as storytelling, theatre, photovoice, and participatory designs –showcased art as a powerful source of data and dialogue.

Taking into consideration the context of the conference, it showcased alternative ways to have voices heard whilst also creating a space for inclusion between academics, artists, and community members. Overall, the conference stood apart as it incorporated live poetry, live musical items, immersive art therapy activities, and fashion as a means of expression.

Gwynneth Louw (pictured, left), Research Administrator at the Centre for Epidemic Response & Innovation (CERI) & volunteer at the CREATE Conference

The CREATE Conference was an inspiring event that blended science and creativity in meaningful ways. Attending as a delegate, artist, and volunteer, I found every session rich with insight and connection. My main motivation was to explore how creativity could enhance scientific engagement within communities, and the experience exceeded all expectations.

Among the most memorable moments was sharing my poetry alongside Associate Professor Nicola Plastow, who accompanied me on the drum, creating a shared story that embodied collaboration and spontaneity. Each session I attended was engaging and filled with innovative ideas about community engagement in academia. The DRUMBA session stood out as particularly dynamic and uplifting, reminding me how art and rhythm can foster unity and learning. What struck me most throughout the conference was the emphasis on community, particularly being seen, heard, and included. I left with a renewed appreciation for the balance between science and art, realising that collaboration is not only powerful but essential for progress. The experience has inspired me to bring these lessons back into my community projects and to continue building spaces where creativity and research coexist harmoniously.

Dr Chanelle Mulopo, Researcher at the Centre for Epidemic Response & Innovation (CERI)

The CREATE 2025 Conference was exceptionally well organised and offered a fresh arena of ideas that sparked a great deal of creativity. The sessions and interactions challenged me to think beyond conventional research approaches, particularly in how I engage with communities and incorporate more creative and participatory methods.

A key highlight for me was the body mapping workshop facilitated by Lynette Rademeyer-Bosman. The practical and reflective nature of the session encouraged me to reimagine how I can integrate creative visual methods into my research practice. It was both inspiring and empowering, and I left with a renewed sense of curiosity and motivation to experiment with innovative approaches that make research more inclusive and expressive.

Ameera Crew, Public Squares Intern & member of CREATE Conference organising committee fellows,

The CREATE Conference was a truly inspirational gathering that gave a breath of fresh air to research on health equity. In the opening statement, the conference chair, Prof Lynn Hendricks, encouraged delegates and presenters to embrace creativity and authenticity in research. This was a golden thread throughout the conference as showcased in the unique ways people were conducting research whether through play, music, and theatre, or by going beyond academia and involving religious leaders, community pioneers, and youth.

For me, the highlight of the conference came on the final day. I attended a workshop on the importance of breastfeeding for babies, mothers, and society. The presenter addressed common misconceptions regarding breastfeeding versus bottle-feeding and uncovered some of the practices that are deemed as normal but are actually rooted in systems of inequality. Breastfeeding is a holistic approach to nurturing that extends beyond nutrition, connecting various aspects of well-being. I left the session feeling both enlightened and empowered to consider how small, intentional acts in research and practice can contribute to broader systems of equity and care.

Below: Business Development Manager at Lasec, Naledi Plaatjies, presenting at the second seminar.