Addressing the Triple Threat in Kenya through Sensitive, Human-Centered Methodologies

Description:

Kenya faces a complex challenge—the interconnected nature of HIV, unintended pregnancies, and sexual and gender-based violence. Firsthand developed a human- and equity-centered curriculum and facilitated a 4.5-day workshop aimed to equip practitioners and adolescents from across the country with the skills to conduct participatory research for sensitive subject, identify the drivers behind harmful practices, and develop community-led interventions. Adolescents from seven priority populations were actively involved, sharing their perspectives and helping to create new solutions. The first three days focused on training participants in HCD methodology, including rapid inquiry, idea generation, and prototyping, with field visits to communities affected by these issues. The remaining days were dedicated to regional groups, led by adolescents, developing HCD project plans to outline future research and intervention design. Firsthand's co-creation process involved human-centered design and social behavior change research methodologies, curriculum design, field research, synthesis, tool and capacity building, and mentorship sessions. In addition, a peer to peer, day long training was provided to the same adolescents, providing a space to hear about their own community progress and initiatves, as well as to refresh key concepts and tools from the original training.