hi,  I’m Basia

a Human-centered Researcher & Designer weaving together data & design and storytelling to create meaningful social change.





Journey Mapping Adolescent Sexual Health Needs in Lusaka, Zambia: A Human-Centered Design Perspective




Role:   UX Researcher
Project: CHoNGeTSa study
Tools:  Figma, Miro
Team:  2 Qualitative Researchers, 2 Data Scientists, 4 Lab Technicians
Timeline:  February 2024-Present
Stakeholders: Zambart, The Institute of Tropical Medicine (Antwerp),  London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine










Project Overview  
The CHoNGeTSa study, a collaboration between Zambart, the Institute of Tropical Medicine, and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, aimed to estimate the prevalence of curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among 15-24-year-olds in  a high-density, peri-urban community of Lusaka. As part of the qualitative research unit, we used interviews, focus groups, and journey mapping to develop user archetypes and outline the care-seeking pathways of adolescents, as well as the roles of medical and community-based providers along these pathways.




Stakeholders    



Problem Statement  












Research Question & Objectives





Research Design


Data Collection







User Feedback Workshop Facilitation


Following the completion of data collection, preliminary research findings detailing AYP care pathways, preferences and care seeking journey maps were presented to stakeholders for data validation and member checking to ensure data accuracy and resonance. 


Stakeholders in attendance included male and female aCAB members, as well as a high ranking official from the First Level Hospital. A THP CAB member representing THAPAZ was invited but unable to attend. 




Key Findings & Insights




Key Care Seeking Pathways Identified




Pathways & Touchpoints Identified
 


    • Adolescent Girls and Boys (15-17 years): The Youth-Friendly Space within health facilities emerged as their primary—and often only—point of care.

    • Young Women (18-24 years): Their care-seeking journeys are notably complex. These women often start with self-medication and consult various sources, including peers, community elders, family, and NGO-supported initiatives, before turning to pharmacies or traditional healers. Health facilities are typically viewed as a last resort, highlighting a reliance on self-management and community networks.

    • Young Men (18-24 years): This group’s pathways commonly begin with self-medication, followed by visits to pharmacies or health facilities, with traditional healers also playing a role.


    Factors Influencing Care Seeking Pathways & Behaviors
                                                 







    So, what’s next?




    Publishing
    Article Title: Navigating Care: The Role of Traditional Healers in STI Care Pathways for Adolescents and Young People in Lusaka, Zambia
    Journal: BMJ Journal - Sexually Transmitted Infections
    Authors:  Basia M. Diagne, Gracious Witola, Bernadette Hensen, Mwelwa Phiri, Gideon Phiri, Steve Belemu


    Gallery 


    Check out below a few selected snapshots from the research phase of the study!

    Me in the field, beside the Youth Friendly Space where focus group dicussions were held.
    A registered traditional healer demonstrates his registration certificate with the THAPAZ healers association in Zambia.
    Qualitative research unit colleagues in the field en route to interview a traditional healer.
    Presenting initial archetypes and journey maps got research validation and feedback to stakeholders.
    The CHoNGeTSa research team (data scientits, qualitative research unit, lab technicians, PI’s, etc).
    Focus Group Discussion with young women, journey map in the background.