Nurse, researcher, and songwriter Martie Hauptfleisch is transforming the findings of her master's research on adolescent sexual health into a public awareness music campaign. The campaign aims to encourage young people to think about their future before making decisions that could affect their lives.
The research, conducted by Hauptfleisch as part of her master's program at Stellenbosch University, surveyed 453 11th and 12th-grade students in the Stellenbosch area. Although many students demonstrated knowledge of sexual health, the study indicated that having this knowledge does not always lead to safer behavior.
Hauptfleisch reported that approximately 39% of respondents reported sexual activity, but only 26% of those who were sexually active stated that they always use condoms. In Hauptfleisch's view, this data underscores the need to look beyond simply providing information about contraception.
As part of a partnership with Stellcare, a charity dedicated to child protection and family welfare, Hauptfleisch plans to present the song 'Hey Brain' at the Stellcare venue in Stellenbosch on Thursday, September 17th. The event is scheduled from 10:00 to 11:00. The campaign uses music as a tool to motivate young people to pause and consider their choices. Attendance at the event is free, and tickets are available through Hauptfleisch's website, Knock Knock.
Hauptfleisch believes that preventing teenage pregnancy requires a comprehensive approach involving families, schools, healthcare workers, social workers, artists, and community organizations. She states: 'We cannot just tell teenagers what not to do. We must help them envision where they are going, who they can become, and what choices will help them achieve that goal.'
The campaign also marks Hauptfleisch's return to creative work after several years dedicated to academic pursuits. She describes her new artistic persona as Woman on Fire / The Singing Nurse and previously released the musical piece 'The Red Moon Rises,' which explores menstruation, the female cycle, reproductive autonomy, and the choices facing young women on the threshold of adulthood.
Hauptfleisch questions: 'Sexual desire is not a short-term problem. So why do we expect people to manage it with only short-term solutions?' The next phase of the initiative will focus on studying reproductive health issues and access to contraception. Hauptfleisch hopes that the song 'Hey Brain' will serve as a starting point for a model where research stimulates dialogue, music attracts attention, and community organizations connect people with practical support.