In the first installment of Elevate Health's "Community Defines" video series, staff members and community partners delve into the concept of authentic engagement, highlighting how genuine connection can create more meaningful interactions. The video features a range of perspectives, each featuring insights on what it truly means to engage with others in an open and honest way.

The participants emphasize various aspects of authentic engagement, such as the importance of showing up as one’s true self, being present in the moment, and creating a space where others feel safe to express themselves. Listening and understanding others without judgment, spending quality time to build connections, and recognizing the value of vulnerability are key themes explored throughout the video.

Additionally, the video touches on the idea that authentic engagement involves reciprocity—relationships where both parties are invested and willing to learn from each other. One speaker highlights the necessity of empathy, describing authentic engagement as a practice that requires individuals to set aside their own perspectives in order to fully listen and integrate others’ experiences.

Through these diverse voices, the video offers a powerful reminder of the importance of cultivating genuine, empathy-rich relationships, where individuals can truly connect and grow together. Elevate Health encourages viewers to reflect on their own approach to engagement and consider how they can create more authentic connections in their communities.

Special thanks to the Elevate Health community partners who joined us for this video: Maura Kizito from Wakulima USA and John Levi from Community Health Care.