Octavia Roodt, Designer-Researcher

Octavia is a South African designer-researcher whose work grew out of her practice as a comics artist. She uses visual storytelling, drawing and hands-on creative methods to help people share and reflect on lived experiences, especially in contexts where language can be limiting. Her approach is rooted in participatory and inclusive ways of working, creating spaces where people can connect, make sense of experiences together and express what is often difficult to put into words.

She is currently a PhD researcher (2025–2028) at KU Leuven and LUCA School of Arts, where she works with people living with dementia and their wider care networks. Through comics and multisensory co-creation, she explores how experiences of dementia can be expressed in more humane and everyday ways, opening alternative perspectives on care, dignity and relationships. Alongside her research, she collaborates with care organisations, contributes to teaching, and continues to develop her artistic practice.