Ravel Gatoto

WWhat inspires you to work in the HIV field?

As a young survivor from Burundi, a country where economic hardship, limited opportunities, unemployment and social stigma deeply affect the well-being of my community, I am inspired by the urgent need to amplify the lived experiences of young people living with and affected by HIV, especially in low-income countries. My work is driven by a strong commitment to advocate for holistic support, including economic empowerment, access to research, inclusive HIV and SRHR services, mental healthcare and digital innovation.

I believe that young people must not only survive, but also thrive with dignity, purpose and equal opportunity. I am also motivated by the global goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat and achieving the 95-95-95 targets. My purpose is to ensure that no one is left behind and that our voices are not only heard, but also lead meaningful change.
 

What are your goals as an IAS change maker?

As an IAS change maker, my goal is to support the sustainability of community-led organizations, particularly in the face of shifting donor priorities and the rise of digital transformation.

I envision a future where young people, in all our diversities, are no longer struggling due to a lack of economic opportunities, high unemployment and limited access to empowerment opportunities. I also aim to ensure that young people from low-income countries like Burundi are meaningfully included and engaged in HIV research, especially in advocacy for HIV cure research, and are not left behind. My ambition is to create spaces where young people can lead, innovate and drive meaningful, lasting change in the global HIV response.