Zakiyyah
Haffejee

Awardee

Country

South Africa

Zakiyyah Haffejee reexamines history through architecture.

Themes
Reexamining history
Indigenous rights
Racial justice
Disciplines
Design
Artistic Research
Other(s)
Awards
FELLOWS Award 2024
Moving Narratives

Profile

Zakiyyah Haffejee is an architect and researcher based in South Africa. Zakiyyah holds a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from the University of Johannesburg and a Master's in Architecture from the Royal College of Art in London. A recurring theme in her work is an exploration of gender, identity, spirituality and ritual. Zakiyyah navigates the intersections of these themes, uncovering layers of meaning through meticulous research and a keen understanding of language, history, and religion. She sees her architectural endeavours as more than structures but as conduits for telling stories, challenging norms, and fostering a deeper connection between people and their built environment.  

Currently, she teaches in the second-year architecture programme at the University of Cape Town and practices with Craig McClenaghan Architecture. She has previously contributed to Wolff Architects, Counterspace Studio and the Archive of Forgetfulness.