The YAM web application is a vital tool designed to connect various stakeholders, including universities, network partners, and research fellows, with the Youth Aware of Mental Health (YAM) program. YAM is a school-based program that engages students in 8th through 12th grade in learning about and exploring mental health through role-play and student-led discussions. The web application enables the sharing of publications, program details, and information across different entities, facilitating collaboration and knowledge dissemination among participants. By providing a centralized platform for communication and resource sharing, the YAM web application plays a crucial role in promoting mental health awareness and education among young people worldwide.
The YAM Web Application project highlighted the importance of flexibility in managing user roles and permissions, particularly in a global educational context. We learned that a scalable and secure architecture is crucial for supporting the expansion of programs like YAM. The project also underscored the need for user-centric design in educational tools, ensuring that the platform not only meets functional requirements but also engages and supports users effectively. Additionally, the experience reinforced the importance of global accessibility and compliance with data security regulations when developing applications that handle sensitive information. These insights will inform our approach to future projects, particularly those involving educational programs and international collaboration.