“A picture is an invitation to a conversation.”

As I look over the visual notes I created for the YMCI fellows’ focus group sessions, I cannot think of a better way to capture these conversations. Would a meeting transcript contain the same information? Yes – even more, actually. But, one thing is for sure: it would not do the focus group participants’ brilliance and energy any justice.

Visual notetaking is a practice of deep listening. I listen and capture the words of speakers, especially when they express something with strong emotion(s). If the speaker says something that generates a visual in my mind, I draw it. When all is said and done, my notes visualize, clarify, and organize the group’s wisdom. Not only is the resulting chart way more appetizing than a text-heavy transcript, but research suggests that people are more likely to remember information connected with visuals more, over time, than they would with only text.

So, visual notes are more inviting AND more memorable in the long-term? What better way to share the gospel of youth peer support?! Personally, my mind was blown away by these conversations, as I had never heard of youth peer support. I can only imagine how these visual notes will be received by people who also were not aware that it is a (crucial!) thing.

In that way, I see my work as revolutionary. I am equipping these fellows with powerful information-sharing tools that will invite people to these important conversations. In turn, this increased awareness will lead to more advocacy and funding for high-quality youth peer support for Black and brown LGBTQ+ youth. May that be the “rising tide that lifts all boats”, such that everyone gets the support they need to thrive and flourish in this world!