values and commitments

Many negative sexual and reproductive health outcomes stem from limited access to care and resources, community-level risk factors, and negative experiences with health systems that lead to mistrust and avoidance. To make real progress in adolescent sexual and reproductive health, innovation must address these underlying influences—not just the symptoms.

We understand that not everyone identifies as an “innovator,” but we look for and encourage anyone with an idea that could help adolescents live healthy and fulfilled lives.

We use methods and approaches that are oriented toward adolescents, strengths-based, and meant to meet people where they’re at.

Innovation is messy and does not follow a linear path to success. We welcome pivoting in support of the iterative nature of innovation.

“We love that our project is not being micromanaged. We are able to be creative, pivot, and we are encouraged to be successful on our terms.”

We recognize that those who are building innovations have deep wisdom to share with their peers, beyond what any single expert or coach can provide. We bring innovators together to learn from each other and create collaborative networks that will stay with them as they continue their journeys.

 “It was very energizing to connect with other creators doing this work!”

We strive to be clear and honest about our goals, expectations, decision-making processes, and limitations. We communicate openly with teams, share what we’re learning with the field, and continually reflect on how we can improve our practices and partnerships.