Evidence that creates change.
We are committed to conducting peer-reviewed research as an integral part of our programmes. Everything we do is grounded in research, shaped by lived experience and continually evaluated. Our evidence doesn't sit on a shelf, it informs programmes, strengthens communities and helps shape global understanding of internal stigma.
Our Research Areas
Advancing understanding of internal stigma.
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HIV & Internal Stigma
Understanding how internal stigma affects health, wellbeing, treatment adherence, disclosure and quality of life for people living with HIV.
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Obesity-Related Self-Stigma
Working with Trinity College Dublin and primary care partners to explore how Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction can reduce internalised weight stigma and improve wellbeing.
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Young People & Self-Worth
Evaluating peer-led programmes such as Wakakosha that support adolescents and young people to recognise internal stigma, strengthen self-worth and build resilience.
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Migrant Women's Mental Health
Co-designing creative, community-led interventions combining storytelling, music and evidence-based psychosocial support to strengthen mental health and wellbeing.
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Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (IBSR)
Exploring the use of Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction across different communities and health contexts to support people in challenging stressful beliefs and rebuilding self-worth.
Published Research
Our work has contributed to the growing evidence base on internal stigma, self-worth and Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction.
2026 Highlight:
Why Research Matters
For decades, global efforts focused on reducing discrimination, changing policies and improving access to healthcare.
Yet while working alongside communities affected by HIV in Zimbabwe, our co-founders recognised something important.
Even when external stigma was reduced, many people continued to carry shame, self-blame and deeply held beliefs that they were "not good enough."
This was internal stigma.
It remained largely overlooked despite its profound impact on health, wellbeing, treatment adherence, relationships and opportunity.
At Beyond Stigma, research is how we understand this invisible barrier, and how we develop evidence-based solutions to address it.
Our Research Principals
Every programme is co-designed with people who have lived experience.
Our work is informed by research and developed alongside universities and healthcare partners.
Programmes are piloted, adapted and strengthened through continuous learning.
Knowledge gained in one community informs work across countries and populations.
We evaluate outcomes to understand what works and improve future programmes.
Measuring Impact
Evidence driving change.
10+ Years of Research & Innovation
Advancing evidence-based approaches since 2012.7 Countries
Programmes, research and partnerships worldwide.525+ Young People Supported in 2025
Community-led programmes across seven African countries.5,130+ Secondary Participants Reached in 2025
Peer-led community activities8,500+ Global Stakeholders Engaged in 2025
Our research, conferences, webinars and knowledge-sharing activities reached more than researchers, practitioners and policymakers worldwide.15+ Peer-reviewed articles & resources
Contributing to the global evidence on internal stigma.International Recognition
Research shared at leading global conferences and events.
Research Partners
Our work is strengthened through collaboration with universities, healthcare providers, community organisations and international partners.
Help Create Lasting Change
Together, we can help more people move from self-stigma to self-worth.
Choose how you'd like to support our work.