Birth in Color RVA
Using AI to Create a Web App for a Reproductive Justice Organization
Project Summary
Used artificial intelligence to design a web application for Birth in Color, a reproductive justice organization based in Richmond, VA.
Journey map and key insights from contextual inquiry and observation, findings from interviews with reproductive aides and users, and a progressive web app.
Deliverables
See the full project breakdown below. ⬇️
Key iframes from my web app are scheduled to be integrated into Birth in Color’s official statewide perinatal website.
Impact
Navigation Hub
Role
Researcher & App Designer
Stakeholder Input, Contextual Inquiry, Field Observation
Research Tools
Design Tools
Bolt, Netlify & Cursor
Birth in Color serves mothers and families in the Richmond, Virginia area, with a focus on supporting black and minority communities.
Since its founding in 2018, the organization has been on a mission to “bring cultural inclusivity to the forefront of Maternal Health Reproductive Justice narratives.” Through community events, workshops, and policy advocacy, Birth in Color has established itself as a key advocate for reproductive support in Virginia’s political hub, particularly in its capital, Richmond.
There is an opportunity for Birth in Color to strengthen its digital presence by developing a web app that would enhance user access to its services and support network.
The Context
The Ask
How might we create a web application for Birth in Color to better connect its users to their services?
Journey Map: My First Advocacy Experience with Birth in Color
To design the app, I began by learning how Birth in Color supports clients and runs its events.
I joined Birth in Color for Advocacy Day 2025, where advocates met with lawmakers at the Virginia General Assembly to push for reproductive health policies. The day began with a briefing alongside the Director of Birth in Color and partnering organizations, reviewing key policy goals.
We heard firsthand accounts from policymakers, including Congresswoman Jennifer Foy, who shared her experiences as a Black woman navigating reproductive care, and Governor Glenn Youngkin, who reflected on his mother’s work in women’s health.
Later, we met directly with political representatives and attended a General Assembly session where key legislation was introduced.
Explore my journey map below for a detailed breakdown of my experience and the insights gathered.⬇️
Main Insight
Aide-Outsider Interactions Are the Core of Impact
During a break, I spoke with fellow volunteers Kathryn, an advocate, and Iris, a Virginia-based doula.
Both emphasized the importance of reaching people outside the organization in different ways.
Kathryn highlighted the need for flexible advocacy that includes non-clinical caregivers like doulas.
Iris stressed the role of physical wellness in pregnancy, showing how care must extend beyond medical treatment to support the entire individual - especially leading up to labor.
My Birth in Color web app—built using Bolt, Netlify, and Cursor—is an ongoing project that I am actively refining in collaboration with the organization to enhance its impact and usability.
Solution
Progressive Web App Revisions Based on Feedback
After collaborating with the Creative Director for Birth in Color, we’ve realigned the project focus to better address the organization's long-term needs. This process has given me valuable experience with a real non-profit organization, especially with revising based on stakeholder feedback and navigating project challenges.
Check out my updated project plan below. As I make progress, tasks will be marked as complete. ⬇️
Project Reflection
I am proud of the primary research conducted for this project. Immersing myself in a type of political advocacy that I believe in and using my research skills to gather insights which directly shape the solution were the highlights of this experience.
Check out my other projects below. ⬇️
