Co-creation of youth-focused health research and interventions: lessons from a Research Institute in a rural district, South Africa
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Drawing on institutional experience from the Africa Health Research Institute in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, we examine Thetha nami (‘Talk to me’), a youth-led, community-based health intervention model. We demonstrate that co-creation with adolescents recalibrates traditional research dynamics, thereby enhancing both methodological rigor and intervention acceptability. By actively engaging adolescents as co-creators of their own healthcare solutions, the model utilizes trained peer navigators to provide targeted mentorship, health advocacy, and improved access to youth-friendly services. Through peer-driven outreach, Thetha nami translates complex health topics into accessible messaging, securing targeted counselling and care referrals for hard-to-reach populations, including young men. The conclusions presented in this paper derive from critical reflection and applied institutional practice and is therefore a potential limitation.
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,226
OpenAlex ID: W7213342759