Jumo Health, a global provider of age-appropriate, culturally relevant medical education resources, is proud to celebrate International Youth Day by reflecting on the invaluable insights gained from young people around the world. Our long-standing partnership with the iCAN (International Children’s Advisory Network) Summit, where we have been the lead sponsor for the past six years, has continually shaped and guided our mission. The iCAN Summit is more than just an annual event; it is a vibrant, living testament to the power and importance of youth voices in healthcare.

This year’s iCAN Summit, held in Bari, Italy, provided a unique platform for children and young adults, many of whom live with chronic conditions or rare diseases, to engage directly with medical professionals, community leaders, and advocates. Listening to their stories, challenges, and aspirations is not only an inspiration but also a critical component of our work at Jumo Health. The insights we gather from these young participants ensure that our medical communications are not only theoretically sound but also practically relevant and deeply empathetic.

 

One of the primary focuses at this year’s summit was improving the clinical trial Consent/Assent process. Through interactive sessions, we explored how different media—such as video, animation, and personal discussion guides—affect comprehension and engagement. The clear preference for video and in-person discussions reaffirmed our commitment to using these mediums in our products. This commitment is driven by the understanding that young people learn best when the information is presented in ways that resonate with their experiences and preferences.

The power of storytelling and the theme of self-advocacy emerged as central pillars during the summit, highlighting the profound impact that sharing personal experiences can have on understanding and navigating complex medical information. Hearing the stories of other children not only made participants feel less alone but also empowered them to take charge of their health. This realization continues to drive our efforts at Jumo Health to create relatable, story-driven content that resonates with young audiences. 

 

 

During the summit, we had the privilege of capturing over 20 personal stories from young people and adults, which have already been developed into compelling videos to be shared across multiple online platforms. By incorporating these real-life experiences into our educational materials, we make complex medical concepts more accessible and relatable, while also fostering the self-advocacy that is crucial for young people to become active participants in their healthcare journeys. This approach ensures that the next generation is equipped with the knowledge and confidence they need to make informed decisions about their health.

Another critical insight from the summit was the importance of building digital trust. In a session focused on this topic, both parents and children emphasized the need for transparency and trustworthiness in online medical information. This feedback has helped us refine our digital strategies, ensuring that our content not only educates but also builds trust with the families who rely on it. In today’s digital age, trust is paramount, and we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and transparency in all our communications.

Our time at iCAN serves as a constant reminder of the importance of centering young people in everything we do. Their insights shape our strategies, influence our product development, and ultimately help us create better health outcomes for all. As we reflect on International Youth Day, we are more committed than ever to continuing this vital work, inspired by the incredible young voices we are privileged to hear at iCAN. Together, we are building a brighter future for healthcare—one where young people are not only heard but also empowered to lead the way.