What the project is about!

In this small, qualitative study we are going to use photovoice as a participatory action research method (PAR) to explore the experience of orphaned, HIV sero-positive children living in a group home setting in Fort Portal, Uganda. Very little research has been done on the psychosocial health of this population. The little literature that exists suggests that orphaned, HIV-sero positive children experience significant challenges to their psychosocial well being due to multiple losses and due to stigma and discrimination (Culver & Gardner, 2007, Bikaako-Kajura, Luyirika, Purcell, Downing, Kaharuza, Mermin, Malamba & Bunnell, 2006, Stein, 2003, Atwine, Cantorl-Graae & Bajunirwe, 2005, Nyamukapa, Gregson, Lopman, Saito, Watts, Monasch & Jukes, 2008).
Photovoice is a PAR data collection tool that provides the participants in the research the opportunity to create and discuss photos as a way to share their views, ideas and experiences, and to record, reflect, critique and take action on personal and community issues (Wang & Burris, 1997). The participants are active in every stage of the process. PAR impacts the participants through the process of reflection, finding a voice, personal growth and impacts the community by increasing their awareness of issues, inviting them to engage and potentially to be a part of social change. The results of this study will be used to guide future research on the psychosocial health needs of this population, and to provide recommendations for policy, programs and interventions to support the needs of these children.

I'll be working with about 8 children/youth aged 12 -18. They are supported by a local, non-governmental, charitable organization called YES Uganda (Youth Encouragement Services Uganda) and they live at the Manna Rescue Home. You can check out their website at http://www.caroladamsministry.com/manna_rescue_home.html

There is a registered charity in Edmonton that helps to support the work they do at YES Uganda. You can find out more, or how to donate at the HEAL International website http://www.healinternational.ca/index-5.html