Shining a light on shame through unique, interactive, and individualized holistic health and wellness education. Because the world's a little brighter without shame.
Overview
what we do, why we do it, and how we do it
A sensitive topic like sex education should only be taught by a qualified, experienced educator - otherwise the risk of harm is high. In Georgia, certified sex educators are few and far between. Sun Academy is owned and operated by one of the only Certified Holistic Sexuality Educators in Georgia. More about Jazmin here.
Goals
My primary goals in doing this work are to prevent sexual violence and eliminate shame. Research shows that comprehensive, holistic sexuality education can reduce and prevent shame, prevent sexual violence, and improve overall health and well-being. Unfortunately, most of us don't grow up with the tools we need to make this happen. This is where Sun Academy comes in. While I strive to take a proactive approach, I also take a reactive approach and work with survivors of sexual violence to provide sex education unique to their needs in way that helps heal from the harmful effects of sexual trauma.
Unique approaches
Taking unique approaches is important in helping people feel more comfortable with such a sensitive topic and addressing it holistically. The puberty escape room, crafting a consent castle, and health scavenger hunt are just a few examples of my unique approaches to sex education.
Healing first
When appropriate, I start most of my events by addressing the elephant in the room - shame. Depending on the audience, we might start by briefly discussing and calling out shame, why we may be uncomfortable in this class, the way we have experienced sex education in the past, how it impacts us, and how we can overcome it. I have found this piece to be essential for people to really take in information presented after that.
Tailored to you
For any workshop, especially those specifically requested by individuals, groups, or organizations, I start by speaking with you and gathering insights on the unique needs of those who i’ll be working with, what kinds of goals they have, and the most effective approaches for the group. Based on this information and along with evidence and research and my experience as a sex educator, I create an individualized curriculum specific to you and/or your group.
Trauma-informed
As an advocate for survivors and a crisis responder, I know how important it is to be trauma-informed, especially with a sensitive topic like this. I recognize that sex education can activate some tough feelings and traumatic memories for people, and I take steps to reduce the negative impact of this. A few examples of how I may do this are setting ground rules at the beginning, reminding people they are free to come and go as they please, and always having the option to participate (or not) in activities.
Collaborative
I view the curriculum-writing and designing process as a collaboration. I do NOT take the approach of “i know everything and you have to do it my way.” I take pride in transparency every step of the way. Some examples of how I do this are by sharing details of my curriculum with partners before final implementation to get feedback and offer parent info sessions.
Praise
Student Participant
College Birth Control Presentation
Health Educator (DPH)
Teaching Sex Education Webinar
Teen Participant
Adolescent Sex Education Course
Parent Participants
Sex Positive Parenting Class
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