Princess Jauan Durbin

What inspires you to work in the HIV field?

My passion for working in the HIV field is deeply rooted in my commitment to health equity and community empowerment at a young age. Witnessing the disproportionate impact of HIV on my community, especially with LGBTQ+ young people and communities of colour, has galvanized my dedication to ending the pandemic. The resilience and solidarity shown by our community are inspiring.

From my educational background at Morehouse College, which instilled in me the values of leadership and service, to my professional and personal experiences in healthcare consulting and community engagement with the ballroom-house scene, I have seen firsthand the dire need for informed, compassionate advocacy and education in HIV prevention and treatment. Moreover, the dynamic advancements in HIV research, such as the development of PEP and PrEP and improvements in antiretroviral therapy, inspire hope and highlight the importance of staying at the forefront of the intersection of medical and social progress.

What are your goals as an IAS change maker?

As an IAS change maker, my goals are centred on harnessing the energy and innovation of young people, particularly within the Kiki ballroom-house community. I aim to bridge gaps in HIV education and advocacy among young adults, empowering new leaders from the ballroom scene and their house families. I aim to introduce fresh perspectives and collaborative strategies to the global response to HIV and AIDS, ensuring that our initiatives are deeply rooted in community-driven solutions. This role would mark a significant personal achievement and amplify our collective impact on HIV prevention and treatment worldwide, fostering significant advancements in health equity and leadership development in the process.