We’re on a mission to provide teens with intersectional, comprehensive, and affirming sex education

Every day, youth receive messages about sex and relationships through the media, friends and family, religion, etc. Unfortunately, most young people lack supportive spaces and resources to process, question, and discuss these topics.

Papaya Project’s goal is change this.

Relationship, Identity, and Sexuality Education (RISE) is a comprehensive curriculum, designed for teens ages 12 to 18 to provide them with the tools they need to make healthy choices for their bodies, sexual health, and relationships.

RISE workshops cultivate a safe learning environment for youth to engage at the level they feel most comfortable. Each workshop includes a variety of lecture, reflection, and discussion, and students always have the opportunity to ask questions anonymously.

Course content is comprehensive, medically accurate, age-appropriate, and centers LGBTQIA+ identities. Check out some of the topics we cover below.

Relationship, Identity, and Sexuality Education (RISE)

  • Identity, Gender, & Sexuality

    Students learn about the intersections of identities, including gender, sex-assigned at birth, and sexual orientation. Students are invited to investigate their own identities and consider the power and privileges that their identities do or don't afford them.

  • Anatomy

    Students learn the anatomy of female, male, and intersex genitalia. Using cartoon drawings and playdoh, participants sculpt genitals and learn about the similar structures that make up all bodies.

  • Reproductive & Sexual Health

    A look into reproductive anatomy and health, including menstruation, pregnancy, contraceptives, and STI prevention. Youth learn how to engage in informed and safe sexual relationships with others.

  • Consent

    Communication, boundaries, and consent are key to healthy relationships of all types. Students learn how to ask for and provide consent (verbally and non-verbally) and discuss the power and nuances that can affect one's ability to consent.

  • Healthy Relationships

    Focusing on healthy communication and boundaries, this course provides youth with the tools to engage in more positive and healthy relationships (of all types). We also discuss how to identify and assist peers who are in unhealthy relationships.

  • Body Image & the Media

    Media has a large impact on how youth learn to feel about their bodies. Using a body-neutrality and liberation framework, we discuss the impact of media messaging and identify ways to work towards healthier body image (for ourselves and others).

  • Porn Literacy

    It is critical that youth learn how to navigate online sexual media. In this lesson, we define porn, discuss the potential impact of porn on viewers, and learn how to navigate sexual media in a way that is legal, safe, and healthy.

  • Abortion

    An overview of abortion history and current policies in the USA. Students are invited to consider differing perspectives on abortion and to identify resources for abortion services in the area.

  • Vulva Cupcakes

    As a celebration for completing the RISE program, youth get to decorate cupcakes with art inspired by sex ed topics (e.g. vulvas). This is a great way to wrap up a multi-week program in a body positive manner!

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Youth Testimonials

“I joined this program because I felt that it would be good to learn more about myself, my sexuality, how to handle relationships, my body confidence, and my body in general. Throughout the program, I learned signs of toxic/healthy relationships, about female genitalia, and different sexualities. I think I will pay more attention to the relationships I get in and what my body needs/desires."

— Thania, 14 years old

“Ms. Naomi gave us clear insight and information on our bodies - and not just how they function, but how our bodies feel pleasure. This is important for many teens/adults, as they are limited in their sources of knowing what happens and what is to come from sexual interactions. I think it’s important to know about everything that comes with sex and to be knowledgable about any outcomes that might arise.”

— Skyleen, 16 years old