The Urban Labs are a community-centred methodology developed by Sibikwa that uses arts-based and creative approaches to strengthen public participation in local governance and development. Bringing together community members, young people, civil society organisations and local government, the Urban Labs create accessible spaces for dialogue, civic learning, collaborative problem-solving and collective action. Through participatory theatre, storytelling, creative mapping and other applied arts methods, participants explore local challenges, build their understanding of governance processes and develop recommendations that can inform public policy and municipal planning. The Urban Labs champion cultural democracy, active citizenship and inclusive decision-making, demonstrating how culture and creativity can help communities exercise agency and contribute to shaping the places in which they live.