I recently took part in my first community diagnosis in Seriki Sotayo, and it reminded me why listening is at the heart of public health.
During our first visit, we gathered as a team and opened the floor by introducing ourselves and explaining why we were there. It was important for the community to understand our purpose—not as outsiders, but as learners. We then carried out community mapping, observing the environment, resources, and daily realities that shape health outcomes.
On our second visit, we moved from observation to conversation. We went door to door with questionnaires, asking questions, listening carefully, and documenting experiences shared with trust and honesty. Each interaction added depth to what data alone can never capture.
This experience was humbling. It showed me that community diagnosis is not just about collecting information it is about connection, respect, and understanding people within their own context.
Sotayo taught me that real change begins when we listen first.
