A collaborative workshop and awareness initiative that explores how design can drive social impact, empower communities and create meaningful change through empathy-driven creativity.

Design for Dignity is a collaborative workshop and awareness initiative developed in partnership with Dana Al Sharif and Charity Schools, with creative direction from Zaro Architects. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the vital role of design in driving social impact and community development, bridging the gap between creative professionals and underserved communities. It explores how thoughtful design can uplift, educate and empower individuals in remote or disadvantaged areas through architecture, space-making and aesthetic interventions.

The concept centres on a hands-on design workshop where designers, students and enthusiasts collaborate to address real challenges sourced from Charity Schools projects. Participants will develop small-scale interventions such as activity or learning pavilions, playground and landscape enhancements, aesthetic upgrades for school façades and fences and modular furniture or shading prototypes. These outputs will serve as fundraising assets to attract donors, sponsors and collaborators for future implementation.

The initiative promotes empathy-driven design thinking, provides visibility to Charity Schools’ ongoing educational and social initiatives along with engaging the public in social responsibility through design. It also aims to create tangible, replicable models for future community projects, reinforcing the value of participatory design as a tool for empowerment.

Co-led by Dana Al Sharif, an active volunteer and advocate of Charity Schools, and guided by Zaro Architects, the programme combines community insight with professional mentorship to ensure an inclusive and impactful experience.

The event will conclude with an exhibition of proposals and the launch of a fundraising campaign to support implementation.

At its core, Design for Dignity carries a clear message: design is not a luxury—it is a language of dignity. When directed towards communities in need, it becomes an act of compassion that restores beauty, function and hope.

Location: Building 3, Office 336