A City programme is helping women affected by gender-based violence rebuild confidence, process trauma and find support through creative arts-based workshops.
Women affected by gender-based violence (GBV) are finding healing, confidence and connection through a City of Cape Town programme that uses art as a tool for recovery and empowerment.
Known as She Paves Her Path, the initiative is led by the City’s Arts and Culture Development Branch in partnership with a qualified psychologist. Since August 2025, the programme has supported 65 participants through a series of workshops designed to create safe spaces for reflection, learning and personal growth.
The most recent workshop took place at the Durbanville Rose Garden and brought together participants from Delft and Eerste River. Attendees included both GBV survivors and individuals who work closely with survivors.
The programme combines guided discussions with interactive arts-based activities, including “river of life” exercises and grounding techniques that encourage participants to explore their experiences, emotions and future aspirations.
Through these sessions, participants gain a deeper understanding of gender-based violence, its root causes, the psychological impact of abuse and the cycle of violence. The workshops also focus on empowerment, awareness and planning for positive change.
Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham, said the programme offers a unique approach to healing.
“Gender-based violence leaves deep emotional scars, and recovery looks different for every person. What makes this programme special is that it creates a safe and supportive space where women can connect and begin rebuilding confidence through creativity.”
She added that art provides an outlet for emotions that are often difficult to express through words alone.
“Art offers a creative outlet that holds benefits for our physical and mental well-being, but also allows us to express complex emotions that we aren’t necessarily able to verbalise. The workshops also provide a safe space for shared experiences and new bonds.”
Participants described the programme as transformative, saying it helped them recognise patterns of abuse and better understand the cycle of violence.
One participant said: “I didn’t realise I was in a cycle of abuse until today. This workshop gave me knowledge and helped me see things differently.”
Another participant said the experience provided valuable knowledge and confidence.
“It equipped me with the knowledge to identify gender-based violence and gave me the confidence to educate others in my home and community.”
First introduced on Women’s Day in 2024, the programme continues to expand its impact through partnerships with organisations that support GBV survivors, ward councillors and the City’s Community Arts and Culture Development Department.
By combining creativity, education and emotional support, She Paves Her Path is helping women move from survival to healing while building stronger, more informed communities.
