Starting the journey toward a more approachable service path
Sparring session: A first step toward making support easier to access
Empact facilitated a sparring session with Nuoret Lesket ry to help the organization take the first steps in developing a clearer, more accessible service path for people who have lost a partner and become widowers. In just 90 minutes, we built a shared understanding of the current state, identified pain points, and gave the team tools to continue the work on their own.
What we did
We designed and facilitated a remote workshop using Miro to help participants visualize and reflect on the different steps people take, from hearing about Nuoret Lesket to joining and engaging in peer support.
Using structured facilitation, we helped the team:
- Bring their collective knowledge into one shared journey map.
- Pinpoint specific moments that may be difficult, unclear, or emotionally overwhelming.
- Generate practical ideas to make the journey feel more approachable.
The visual tools and collaborative exercises created space for reflection and sparked new ways of thinking about the member experience. Our goal wasn’t to finish the journey design—but to kick it off with clarity and energy.
”The session clarified ideas and helped to crystallise the core of our work. Your work was positive, forward-looking and inspiring.”
– Sini Leppänen, Communications specialist Nuoret Lesket ry
Methods used
Making the invisible visible: We created a shared visual map of the current service experience, helping the team externalize what they already knew and spot gaps.
Tools to move forward: We left the team with concrete tools, recommendations, and next steps they can use to continue the work independently, whether through member interviews, co-creation, or iteration.
Structure for complexity: We guided the group through a focused process: from mapping to challenge identification to light ideation—all within a 90-minute session.
Sensitivity and clarity: The topic of young widowhood is emotionally complex. We approached the facilitation with care, supporting participants navigate heavy topics in a clear, constructive way.
Feedback from participants
“You’re inspiring.”
“You have a really nice way of approaching things.”
“Ideas really took off.”
“A top-notch duo.”
“Thank you, this was inspiring :)”
“An inspiring way to work.”
“We spoke the same language—you really understood us.”
“Big plus for the visual approach.”
“Really got me thinking.”
“Your empathy really comes through in what you do.”
“Gave a real boost to our work.”
“You’re truly skilled.”“Clear and easy to understand overall.”
“Too short a time.”“Miro is great and easy to use.”