Organization: Centre for youth of hope (CEYOHO)
Region: Africa
Nationality: Botswana
Country: Botswana
Interests & expertise: Ageing with HIV
Profession or occupation: Advocate/activist
What inspires you to work in the HIV field?
As an HIV activist, I am deeply inspired every day by the resilience and struggles of those ageing with HIV, including myself. My commitment as a treatment literacy trainer is driven by a profound urgency to end the HIV pandemic. Through targeted education and persistent advocacy, I strive to alleviate the burden of HIV and champion health equity. My work is not just a job; it is a testament to the incredible power of resilience and the collective effort required to end this pandemic.
By uniting our voices and resources, I firmly believe that we can create a future free from the pain and challenges imposed by HIV. This mission is at the heart of everything I do, pushing me to inspire, educate and lead in the HIV response with every tool and opportunity available.
What are your goals as an IAS change maker?
As an IAS change maker, my primary goal is to enhance the global HIV response through advocacy, aiming to influence international policies for equitable access to HIV services, especially for marginalized communities. I plan to increase education and awareness, promoting treatment literacy and reducing stigma through extensive campaigns and outreach. Strengthening research collaborations is essential, fostering partnerships between researchers, healthcare providers and policy makers to innovate in HIV prevention and treatment. Empowering affected communities is central to my objectives, ensuring that people living with HIV, particularly in resource-limited settings, are involved in decisions affecting their lives.
Finally, I am committed to implementing sustainable practices in the HIV response, adapting strategies to meet evolving challenges and ensuring long-term effectiveness. Through these focused efforts, I aim to contribute significantly to the HIV response, paving the way for a future where the pandemic no longer poses a significant public health threat.