Leda Health: Prevent. Empower. Educate.

Leda Health is focused on addressing the pervasive issue of sexual violence and harassment, particularly in vulnerable communities where individuals face significant barriers in accessing support and justice. The specific problem we are working to solve is the high prevalence of sexual violence and harassment, the underreporting of incidents, and the lack of accessible and comprehensive support services for survivors.

The scale of the problem is staggering, both globally and within the communities we are working in. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 3 women worldwide have experienced physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime, with rates of sexual violence against women ranging from 15% to 71% across different countries (WHO, 2021). Additionally, the United Nations reports that 1 in 6 women have experienced sexual violence or attempted sexual violence in their lifetime, with rates even higher for marginalized groups such as LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and indigenous communities (UN, 2021).

In addition to the significant impact on survivors' physical and mental health, sexual violence and harassment also have broader societal implications, including economic costs, reduced productivity, and social stigma. The WHO estimates that the economic burden of violence against women alone amounts to approximately 1.5% of global GDP (WHO, 2013).

Several factors contribute to the problem of sexual violence and harassment, including gender inequality, societal norms and attitudes that condone violence, lack of awareness and education, and systemic barriers to accessing support and justice. These factors intersect with other forms of discrimination and marginalization, exacerbating the vulnerability of certain groups to sexual violence.

Leda Health's solution directly addresses these factors by providing education, support, and resources to survivors and bystanders. By empowering individuals with knowledge and skills to prevent and respond to sexual violence, we aim to challenge societal norms and attitudes that perpetuate violence and create a culture of respect, accountability, and support.

Our solution is particularly relevant in communities where existing support services are limited or inaccessible. This includes rural areas, low-income communities, and regions with high rates of violence and conflict. By leveraging technology, we overcome geographical barriers and provide individuals with access to confidential support services and educational resources wherever they are.

Furthermore, our solution is designed to be inclusive and culturally competent, recognizing the diverse needs and experiences of survivors from different backgrounds. We offer content in multiple languages and incorporate culturally relevant materials to ensure that our solution resonates with diverse communities.

Overall, the problem of sexual violence and harassment is a significant and complex issue affecting millions of individuals worldwide. Leda Health's solution aims to make a meaningful impact by providing accessible, comprehensive support and education to survivors and bystanders, ultimately contributing to a safer and more equitable world for all.

Leda Health's solution is a mobile application designed to empower survivors of sexual violence and educate bystanders on prevention strategies. Our app serves as a comprehensive tool for both survivors and bystanders, offering support, education, and resources to address the pervasive issue of sexual violence.

For survivors, the app provides access to a 24/7 Care Team consisting of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs), Advocates, and Forensic Experts. Through secure video communication and real-time chat functionalities, survivors can receive confidential support, guidance, and resources whenever they need it. Whether they need medical assistance, legal advice, or emotional support, our Care Team is there to help survivors navigate their healing journey.

In addition to supporting survivors, our app places a strong emphasis on bystander education. Through interactive content, virtual reality simulations, and peer-led discussions, the app educates users on recognizing and addressing signs of potential sexual violence. By promoting awareness of consent, boundaries, and respectful relationships, the app empowers bystanders to intervene in situations where sexual violence may occur, thereby enhancing overall community safety.

Our app boasts an intuitive and user-friendly interface designed to accommodate diverse user preferences and needs. Users can easily navigate through the app to access educational content, support services, and resources. With features like personalized learning algorithms and language options, we ensure that our app is accessible and inclusive for all users.

To prioritize the confidentiality and security of user data, we implement advanced security measures such as encryption, secure data storage, and access controls. These measures ensure that sensitive information shared by users remains protected and confidential, giving survivors the peace of mind to seek support without fear of judgment or exposure.

To deliver engaging and impactful educational experiences, our app incorporates multimedia elements such as videos, interactive modules, and virtual reality simulations. These interactive features help to enhance learning outcomes and foster deeper understanding of complex topics related to sexual violence prevention and support.

In summary, Leda Health's mobile application is a comprehensive solution for survivors of sexual violence and bystanders alike. Through its support services, educational resources, and user-friendly interface, the app empowers survivors to navigate their healing journey and educates bystanders to play an active role in preventing sexual violence. By harnessing the power of technology, we aim to create a safer and more supportive environment for all individuals affected by sexual violence.

Leda Health's solution primarily serves two main groups: survivors of sexual violence and bystanders. Our aim is to directly and meaningfully improve their lives by addressing the significant barriers they face in accessing support, justice, and prevention education.

The target population for our solution includes individuals of all genders who have experienced sexual assault, with a particular focus on marginalized communities and those historically underserved by existing systems. This includes but is not limited to women, LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, immigrants, refugees, and individuals with disabilities.

Currently, survivors of sexual violence often face numerous challenges in seeking support and justice. Many survivors are deterred from reporting their assaults due to fear, shame, stigma, and concerns about the complex and often lengthy legal process. Additionally, marginalized communities may encounter additional barriers such as discrimination, language barriers, and lack of culturally competent care. As a result, survivors are often underserved by existing support systems, which are fragmented, under-resourced, and not designed to meet their specific needs.

Similarly, bystanders may lack the knowledge, skills, and confidence to intervene effectively in situations where sexual violence may occur. Without proper education and resources, bystanders may feel powerless to intervene or may inadvertently contribute to a culture that condones or ignores sexual violence.

Leda Health's solution addresses these challenges by providing a holistic approach to support, education, and prevention. For survivors, our solution offers access to a 24/7 Care Team consisting of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs), Advocates, and Forensic Experts. This support team provides survivors with confidential support, guidance, and resources tailored to their individual needs. By offering accessible, trauma-informed care, survivors are empowered to navigate their healing journey and seek the support they deserve.

For bystanders, our solution offers comprehensive education on recognizing and addressing signs of potential sexual violence. Through interactive content, virtual reality simulations, and peer-led discussions, bystanders are equipped with the knowledge and skills to intervene safely and effectively. By promoting awareness of consent, boundaries, and respectful relationships, bystanders are empowered to play an active role in preventing sexual violence and fostering community safety.

Overall, Leda Health's solution directly impacts the lives of survivors and bystanders by providing them with the support, education, and resources they need to navigate the complexities of sexual violence. By addressing the specific needs of these populations and empowering them with knowledge and tools, we aim to create a safer and more supportive environment for all individuals affected by sexual violence.

Madison Campbell, the CEO and Founder of Leda Health, brings a unique perspective to the team, driven by her personal mission to empower survivors. Her own experiences with assault have fueled her dedication to creating meaningful solutions for survivors. Madison's background in epidemiology adds depth to her understanding of the challenges faced by survivors and informs her approach to addressing them.

Under Madison's leadership, Leda Health has evolved from pioneering self-use DNA collection kits to offering comprehensive survivor support services, including emergency contraception, STI testing, and support groups. Her commitment to survivor-centered care is evident in the company's expansion and development of innovative solutions tailored to survivors' needs.

Madison's previous experience founding Iyanu, a software development firm in Lagos, Nigeria, reflects her dedication to democratizing opportunities and connecting skilled labor with tech companies abroad. This experience has further shaped her approach to building inclusive and accessible solutions for survivors.

Guided by her motto "By thinking big. By thinking in orders of magnitude," Madison founded Leda Health in 2019 to address universal obstacles faced by survivors and provide a sanctuary for them. Her vision for the company is rooted in creating a safe and supportive environment where survivors feel empowered to seek the care and support they deserve.

In addition to Madison's leadership, Leda Health is supported by a 24/7 forensic specialized clinician team with over 35+ years of experience. This team is dedicated to providing survivors with personalized support and guidance, tailored to their individual needs and preferences. They offer a range of communication options to ensure survivors feel comfortable and supported throughout the process of self-collecting DNA and accessing care.

Overall, Madison Campbell and the team at Leda Health are well-positioned to deliver meaningful solutions to survivors of sexual assault. Their personal experiences, expertise, and dedication to survivor-centered care drive their commitment to creating a safer and more supportive future for all survivors.

Leda Health has made significant progress in building and testing its solutions, with a focus on establishing partnerships and conducting successful pilots across multiple universities and events. The company has demonstrated its ability to effectively implement a hybrid distribution model, enabling students to access time-sensitive resources such as the Early Evidence Kit, emergency contraception, and STI testing through delivery or discreet pick-up from secure lockboxes on college campuses.

Key achievements include:

1. Partnerships with Panhellenic organizations, student governments, and music festivals: Leda Health has successfully established partnerships with various organizations and events to reach a wide audience of potential customers and beneficiaries.

2. Successful pilots across more than 20 universities in Texas, Florida, and California: Leda Health has conducted pilots of its services and products at numerous universities, demonstrating the viability and effectiveness of its solutions in real-world settings.

3. Implementation of a hybrid distribution model: Leda Health has developed and implemented a hybrid distribution model that allows students to access essential resources discreetly and conveniently, whether through delivery or secure pick-up from lockboxes on college campuses.

4. Commercialization of services and products: Through its partnerships and pilots, Leda Health has demonstrated its ability to commercialize its services and products effectively, indicating readiness and competence in navigating similar endeavors in the future.

Overall, Leda Health's accomplishments showcase its progress in building and testing its solutions, as well as its readiness to scale and expand its offerings to serve more customers and beneficiaries in the future.

Leda Health is applying to Solve because we believe in the power of technology to address the systemic barriers that prevent equitable access to quality care for survivors of sexual violence. Our solution, rooted in and driven by survivor communities, leverages technology to increase access to essential resources and support services for survivors, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes and well-being.

As we continue to scale our solution, we face several barriers that we hope Solve can help us overcome:

1. Financial barriers: While we have successfully conducted pilots and established partnerships, scaling our solution to reach a broader audience requires additional financial resources. Solve's network of partners can provide funding and support to help us expand our reach and impact.

2. Technical barriers: Developing and implementing technology-driven solutions requires expertise in areas such as software development, data management, and cybersecurity. Solve can connect us with technical experts and resources to enhance our technological capabilities and ensure the effectiveness and security of our solutions.

3. Legal barriers: Navigating legal frameworks related to healthcare, data privacy, and intellectual property rights can be complex and challenging. Solve can provide legal guidance and support to help us navigate these issues and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

4. Cultural barriers: Addressing the cultural stigma and shame surrounding sexual violence is essential to creating a supportive environment for survivors to seek help and access care. Solve can help us engage with diverse communities and develop culturally sensitive approaches to support survivors' needs.

5. Market barriers: Despite the prevalence of sexual violence, there are still barriers to accessing quality care and support services for survivors. Solve can help us identify and overcome market barriers by connecting us with potential partners, customers, and stakeholders who share our commitment to addressing this critical issue.

By partnering with Solve, we hope to leverage their network and resources to overcome these barriers and accelerate the impact of our solution. Together, we can work towards making good health and access to quality care more equitable for all, including medically underserved groups such as survivors of sexual violence.

Leda Health's solution is innovative in its comprehensive approach to addressing sexual violence through education and support for survivors and bystanders. Grounded in evidence-based practices and insights from engagement with target populations, our theory of change outlines logical links between activities, outputs, and longer-term outcomes.

Our activities include education and training, support services, and advocacy and awareness efforts. Through our mobile application, we provide survivors and bystanders with accessible education, including interactive content, virtual reality simulations, and peer-led discussions on topics such as consent and respectful behavior. Additionally, our 24/7 Care Team offers survivors confidential support services, while our advocacy efforts aim to raise awareness and advocate for policy changes.

These activities lead to outputs such as increased awareness and improved skills among participants, as well as access to support services tailored to survivors' needs. Research findings have shown that education and training programs on sexual violence prevention can lead to positive changes in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors conducive to preventing sexual violence (Smith et al., 2017). Evaluation data from our pilot program further support the effectiveness of our solution in increasing awareness, improving skills, and providing accessible support to survivors.

The outcomes we aim to achieve include the prevention of sexual violence, increased reporting rates, and culture change. By equipping individuals with knowledge and skills, we strive to prevent instances of sexual violence and create safer environments. Empowered survivors are more likely to come forward and seek assistance, leading to increased reporting rates and access to support services. Additionally, through advocacy and awareness efforts, we seek to foster a culture of respect, accountability, and support, ultimately reducing the prevalence of sexual violence and promoting healthier relationships.

Stakeholder input, including feedback from survivors, bystanders, and advocacy groups, validates the importance and impact of our solution in addressing the needs of the target population. Through evidence-based practices, evaluation data, and stakeholder engagement, we are confident in the effectiveness of our approach to preventing sexual violence and creating a safer, more supportive environment for all.

Leda Health's mobile application is poised to have a profound impact on addressing sexual violence and empowering both survivors and bystanders through its comprehensive features and user-friendly design.

For survivors, the app serves as a lifeline, offering access to a dedicated 24/7 Care Team comprising experienced professionals like Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs), Advocates, and Forensic Experts. Through secure video calls and real-time chat, survivors can receive confidential support, guidance, and resources tailored to their specific needs. This immediate and personalized assistance is crucial in helping survivors navigate their healing journey, whether they require medical aid, legal counsel, or emotional support.

In parallel, the app places a strong emphasis on educating bystanders. By leveraging interactive content, virtual reality simulations, and peer-led discussions, it equips users with the knowledge and skills to recognize signs of potential sexual violence and intervene effectively. Promoting awareness of consent, boundaries, and healthy relationships empowers bystanders to play an active role in preventing sexual violence, thereby contributing to a safer community environment.

The app's intuitive interface is designed for inclusivity and accessibility, accommodating diverse user preferences and needs. Personalized learning algorithms and multilingual options ensure that users can navigate the app comfortably, fostering a sense of inclusivity and reaching a wider audience.

To safeguard user privacy, the app implements robust security measures such as encryption, secure data storage, and access controls. These measures uphold the confidentiality of user data, assuring survivors of a safe and judgment-free space to seek support and resources.

Furthermore, the app's multimedia elements, including videos, interactive modules, and virtual reality simulations, enhance the educational experience and deepen understanding of complex topics related to sexual violence prevention and support. These engaging features facilitate impactful learning outcomes, promoting informed decision-making and proactive intervention among users.

In essence, Leda Health's mobile application represents a transformative solution in the fight against sexual violence. By empowering survivors to access comprehensive support and educating bystanders to become proactive allies, the app contributes to creating a more empathetic, informed, and safer environment for all individuals affected by sexual violence.

Our impact goals for Leda Health's solution are centered around creating a transformative impact on the lives of survivors of sexual violence and the broader community. 

We aim to achieve the following impact goals:

1. Reduction in instances of sexual violence: Our primary goal is to contribute to a significant reduction in instances of sexual violence by equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to prevent and respond effectively to assault. We measure progress towards this goal by tracking changes in reported incidents of sexual violence within communities where our solution is implemented.

2. Increase in reporting rates: We aim to increase reporting rates of sexual assault and harassment by reducing barriers to reporting and providing survivors with access to confidential support services. Progress towards this goal is measured by monitoring changes in reporting rates within target populations and assessing the utilization of support services offered through our solution.

3. Shift in organizational culture: We seek to foster a culture of respect, accountability, and support within organizations and communities by promoting values of dignity, integrity, and inclusivity. We measure progress towards this goal by conducting surveys and assessments to evaluate changes in organizational culture and attitudes towards sexual violence prevention and support.

4. Empowerment of survivors and bystanders: Our goal is to empower survivors to come forward and seek assistance while equipping bystanders with the ability to recognize signs of potential sexual violence and intervene effectively. Progress towards this goal is measured through qualitative assessments, interviews, and feedback from survivors and bystanders who have engaged with our solution.

• Increase in awareness and education: We aim to enhance awareness and education among individuals regarding the prevalence and impact of sexual assault and harassment. Progress towards this goal is measured by tracking changes in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to sexual violence prevention and support through pre- and post-program assessments and surveys.

To measure our progress towards these impact goals, we employ a combination of quantitative and qualitative indicators. Quantitative indicators include changes in reported incidents of sexual violence, reporting rates, utilization of support services, and shifts in organizational culture as measured by surveys and assessments. Qualitative indicators include feedback from survivors, bystanders, and stakeholders regarding changes in attitudes, behaviors, and perceptions related to sexual violence prevention and support.

By regularly monitoring and evaluating our progress towards these impact goals, we ensure that our solution remains effective, responsive to the needs of the community, and aligned with our mission of creating a safer and more supportive environment for all individuals affected by sexual violence.

Leda Health's solution harnesses the power of advanced technology to address the pervasive issue of sexual violence and harassment. Our core technology revolves around the development and implementation of a mobile application that serves as a comprehensive tool for education, support, and prevention efforts.

The mobile application is built on a robust technological infrastructure, leveraging various features and functionalities to deliver a seamless user experience and drive positive impact. Some key components of our core technology include:

1. User-Friendly Interface: The mobile application boasts an intuitive and user-friendly interface designed to accommodate diverse user preferences and needs. Through simple navigation and clear design elements, users can easily access educational content, support services, and resources.

2. Advanced Security Measures: We prioritize the confidentiality and security of user data by implementing advanced security measures such as encryption, secure data storage, and access controls. These measures ensure that sensitive information shared by users remains protected and confidential.

3. Multimedia Content: Our solution incorporates multimedia elements such as videos, interactive modules, and virtual reality simulations to deliver engaging and impactful educational experiences. These interactive features help to enhance learning outcomes and foster deeper understanding of complex topics related to sexual violence prevention and support.

4. Personalization Features: The mobile application offers personalization features that allow users to customize their experience according to their preferences and needs. From selecting preferred languages to tailoring content preferences, these personalization features ensure that users receive relevant and meaningful information and support.

5. 24/7 Support Services: One of the key features of our solution is the integration of 24/7 support services provided by a Care Team consisting of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs), Advocates, and Forensic Experts. Through secure video communication and real-time chat functionalities, users can access confidential support and guidance whenever they need it.

6. Data Analytics and Insights: We leverage data analytics and insights to continuously monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of our solution. By analyzing user engagement metrics, feedback, and usage patterns, we gain valuable insights that inform iterative improvements and enhancements to the mobile application.

7. Blockchain Technology (optional): For added security and transparency, we explore the integration of blockchain technology for secure data storage and transaction tracking. Blockchain ensures the integrity and immutability of user data, enhancing trust and accountability within the platform.

Overall, Leda Health's solution harnesses the power of advanced technology to create a safer and more supportive environment for individuals affected by sexual violence. Through the innovative use of mobile technology, multimedia content, personalized features, and 24/7 support services, we aim to drive positive change and empower survivors and bystanders to prevent and respond effectively to instances of sexual violence.

Two full time employees, thirteen part-time employees.

5 years.

At Leda Health, diversity, equity, and inclusivity (DEI) are integral to our mission and core values. We recognize the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture that reflects the communities we serve and enables us to better address the needs of sexual assault survivors from all backgrounds. 

Here's how we approach DEI in our work:

1. Diverse Leadership Team: Our leadership team embodies diversity in various aspects, including gender, race, ethnicity, and professional backgrounds. Madison Campbell, our CEO and founder, brings a unique perspective as a tech trailblazer and sexual assault survivor. Gilad Rom, our Lead Senior Software Engineer with 10+ years of experience in enterprise SaaS and consumer product development. He's the Founding Engineer of successful startups like Bottleneck, Huan, and On Deck. Samantha Escobar, Head of Sales, Executive VP of The Latino Caucus, representing over 3,000 Latin American students across 20 organizations on campus and leading the mission and focus to serve the Latinx community with access and care.

2. Commitment to Equity: We are committed to addressing disparities and inequities in sexual assault care and support services. Our partnership with STAR exemplifies this commitment, as STAR focuses on addressing unfairness and gaps in service delivery for historically underserved communities. By providing culturally sensitive and linguistically appropriate services, we aim to ensure equitable access to care for all survivors, regardless of their background or identity.

3. Inclusive Practices: We strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees, partners, and stakeholders. We promote open communication, active listening, and mutual respect within our team and with the communities we serve. Our approach to survivor care and support is centered on inclusivity, recognizing and respecting the diverse experiences, identities, and needs of survivors. We actively seek feedback from survivors and community members to ensure that our services are responsive and inclusive.

4. Continuous Learning and Improvement: We are committed to ongoing learning and growth in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We provide training and development opportunities for our team members to deepen their understanding of DEI issues and enhance their cultural competency. We also engage in regular self-assessment and reflection to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to promote diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our work.

• Community Engagement: We actively engage with diverse communities and stakeholders to ensure that our services are responsive to their needs and preferences. We collaborate with community-based organizations, advocacy groups, and cultural institutions to amplify the voices of survivors and promote inclusive practices in sexual assault care and support. Through these partnerships, we aim to foster trust, build relationships, and co-create solutions that promote equity and justice for all survivors.

In summary, our approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion is grounded in our commitment to serving sexual assault survivors with compassion, empathy, and respect. By fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, collaborating with community partners, and prioritizing equity in our practices, we strive to create a more just and supportive environment for survivors and contribute to positive social change.