My name is Naome Turyasingular, a youth researcher with a hearing impairment. I am attached to the Disability Research Group from the Unit’s Non-Communicable Diseases research theme. I embarked on a transformative journey using the peer-to-peer (P2P) approach in our Disability Youth Investigates research study. This study aimed to investigate the inclusion of youth with disabilities in social participation and research. This experience not only expanded my horizons but also profoundly impacted my personal and professional life.

While applying to be part of the project, I was paired with a peer who had skills in sign language interpretation due to my hearing impairment. Although we were interviewed together, my peer was not allowed to interpret for me during the interviews. This was to assess my knowledge and capability without the support of my peer.

Our journey began with a five-day research training program which equipped us with qualitative and quantitative research skills. We were trained in coding and data analysis using programs such as NVivo. Additionally, we received training in Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and Principles and Procedures for Research (PPR) guidelines to ensure we adhered to research ethics. This enabled us to understand the significance of respecting participants’ privacy and obtaining their informed consent.

Following the training, we were attached to different research projects, providing us with great mentorship opportunities. These experiences offered practical skills and insights for our main research project.

While in the field, we discovered that research participants with disabilities appreciated the P2P approach. They felt comfortable expressing themselves to researchers with disabilities, whom they identified with, sharing sensitive stories and challenges they faced. This connection significantly contributed to the success of our research project.

The P2P approach has had a profound impact on my personal and professional development as a researcher. It has boosted my confidence and self-esteem and enhanced my public speaking and knowledge-sharing abilities as I was able to present amd share the study findings at AFRiNEAD conferene in Cape Town, South Africa. The P2P approach also improved my training skills; for example, I trained other peers with disabilities on how to interview individuals with different disabilities.
Generating new ideas  with my peer and learning from each other was a rewarding experience that has helped me become more open-minded and collborative team player.

During the study, we met several challenges that required innovative solutions. For example, obtaining consent from participants with visual impairments was time-consuming as the forms had to be typed in Braille. In such cases, we would read the consent form aloud while the participant felt the Braille-typed form to ensure they clearly understood. We also provided detailed explanations when clarification was needed.

Another challenge was supporting a person with a hearing impairment and no writing skills to sign a consent form. We solved this by using video recordings to document their consent, thus maintaining their autonomy.

Collaborating on data coding and analysis presented its own set of challenges. Every peer was eager to contribute their ideas, which sometimes led to disagreements if one’s idea was not considered. However, our supportive supervisor always intervened to guide us toward the best decisions. This fostered a collaborative and respectful environment for everyone.

Reflecting on my experience, I strongly advocate for the adoption of the P2P approach in future studies. This method not only makes persons with disabilities more comfortable participating in research but also gives them hope and courage to step out of their shells. While PWDs can conduct research independently, teamwork is essential. “Peers should be given complementary responsibilities to maximize their contributions,” I advise.

My journey in the Disability Youth Investigates research project exemplifies the power and potential of the P2P approach. This experience showcased how inclusive research methods can lead to personal growth, improved career prospects and a richer, more collaborative research process. By embracing and advocating for the P2P approach, I hope to pave the way for more inclusive and impactful research in the future.