participatory action research

Flier for "Every voice matters:" A photovoice study on the personal impacts of co-production in recovery colleges"
Team members at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) used photovoice to explore the impact of co-production in Recovery Colleges for people with mental health and substance use challenges. A strength of the project was its creative and multi-faceted approach to knowledge dissemination.
Two cats sitting inside staring outside at an open door
This photovoice study invited twelve Latin American migrants aged 54+ living in Adelaide — South Australia’s fifth largest city — to share their stories. Using photographs and narratives, they explored how they see and feel about connection and loneliness, bringing awareness to the meaning of culture and belonging in their everyday lives.
People getting food through a buffet line. In the corner, a note states "I don't have to eat alone - I get to eat with others"
Human Rights and Democracy lawyer Christian C. Carbonell writes, "My role as a facilitator before and after the PhotovoiceWorldwide training was profoundly different. Both projects were meaningful, but the latter had much more depth, structure, and reflection."
Erica Belli talking with participants during a training
In summer 2025, PVWW instructors hit the road with a series of in-person photovoice trainings. We interviewed one of them about the experience and her takeaways. The results may surprise you!
This is a photo of all the people spelling out OT. They are Occupational Therapists.
Participatory Action Research (PAR) is flexible and inclusive and can incorporate a variety of research methods. Its findings can be shared in diverse ways, including through art, performance, exhibitions, and public forums. Photovoice is one form of PAR.
Photovoice mentee Nagham Khalil (center) with Bedouin women coresearchers in Lebanon. Source: Nagham Khalil
Nagham received a grant from Ettijahat – Independent Culture to lead her first independent photovoice project, focusing on the cultural identity of young Bedouin women in Lebanon. This project has been deeply personal, shaped by her close collaboration with six young women who shared powerful stories about belonging, gender roles, identity and everyday resilience.
Hand holding a stamp and colorful beads
A random "found object" causes Dr. Lorenz to reflect on the power of photovoice to develop shared understandings and promote Democracy. “...I was cleaning out my beads as I prepared to move to Virginia. A small stamp had been hanging around, hidden among the random beads that somehow linger on my art table after I finish a necklace.”
Printed photos spread out on the ground and participants sitting in a circle around them
PVWW educator Erica Belli had the privilege of using arts-based methods with child refugees traveling the perilous Balkan Route. She came away humbled by their openness, trust, creativity, and resilience.
Blurred lights
Using examples from her vast experience, photographer, filmmaker, and participatory visual media practitioner Ingrid Guyon prioritizes placing participants and their community at the centre of the photovoice process.
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