The Challenge:
In Marawi, Philippines, the community still feels the impact of the siege that destroyed many local sports facilities and community centers. This loss has deeply affected the community’s social and physical activities, leaving residents, especially the youth, without places to gather, play, and heal. Click here to verify
"After the siege, it wasn't just our buildings that were lost, but our meeting places where friendships were made and energy was spent," - Amina (Community Leader)
The Solution:
In response, Rayan, an urban planner dedicated to rebuilding Marawi, collaborated with Gaza999 to develop sports facilities that are not only functional but also sustainable and adaptable. His vision was to create facilities that would respect the environment and serve the community’s diverse needs.
"Integrating sustainability into our new sports centers means we're building smarter, not just for us but for future generations," - Rayan (Urban Planner)
The Implementation:
Rayan initiated the project by engaging with the community to understand their needs and preferences, which guided the overall design. Working closely with architects and designers, he planned facilities that utilized eco-friendly materials and integrated energy-efficient systems, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting.
The construction focused on sustainability and accessibility, ensuring that the new facilities would be inclusive for all community members, featuring ramps and tactile surfaces. The design also included multipurpose areas that could host various sports and community events, enhancing their utility and integration with the surrounding community.
To raise awareness and promote the new facilities, Rayan orchestrated a community-wide campaign that highlighted the sustainable aspects and benefits of the new sports centers, encouraging their active use and care.
"The community's input was invaluable in shaping the vision of these facilities. Everyone felt a part of this transformative project from the start," – Layla (a local resident)
The Impact:
Within the first year after opening, the sustainable sports facilities in Marawi facilitated the return of over 30 community sports leagues and hosted more than 50 community events, directly benefiting over 1,000 local residents. This revival not only restored the physical venues but also rekindled the community spirit that had been stifled by the siege. The facilities became a beacon of hope and a testament to resilience, empowering residents, especially the youth, to reconnect, rebuild, and look forward with optimism.
"Seeing our community come together in these new spaces, where sustainability meets sport, has been incredibly uplifting,"- Jamal (a sports coach)
Lessons Learned:
- Incorporating Sustainable Design: Using sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems proved essential for minimizing environmental impact and reducing operational costs.
- Ensuring Accessibility: Designing with accessibility in mind ensured that everyone in the community could benefit from the new facilities.
- Community-Based Planning: Engaging the community in the planning process helped tailor the facilities to their needs and fostered a sense of ownership.
- Promotion and Engagement: Effective promotion was crucial in maximizing the use and appreciation of the new facilities, highlighting their benefits to ensure sustained engagement.
