It’s incredible how dreams can come true when we least expect them to. For years, I held onto the hope that one day, I would attend an AIDS conference in person. However, as time passed, it seemed like an unattainable dream. Receiving news that I didn’t receive a scholarship to attend this year’s conference left me feeling disheartened, but I refused to give up.
I’m Elina Mwasinga from Malawi, and I’ve dedicated myself to advocating for HIV and sexual reproductive health and rights (SRHR). As the AIDS 2024 conference approached, I reached out to various partners, hoping that someone would support my attendance. To my joy, Tumie Komanyane from Frontline AIDS came through with the incredible news that I would be able to go and represent the READY movement. I was over the moon. Shortly after, Y+ Global contacted me to handle the travel arrangements, and before I knew it, I was already packing my bags.
Navigating my way from Munich Airport to my hotel was a challenge, especially since it was my first time in Europe, but I managed to find my way. Once I arrived at the conference venue, I was instantly energised by the passion and enthusiasm that filled the air. With so many sessions happening simultaneously, I had to be strategic in choosing which ones to attend, knowing I couldn’t keep up with everything.
During the conference, I presented a poster titled “Effective Strategies for Operating Youth Support Groups for Adolescents Living with HIV”. The poster featured case studies from Mangochi and Chikawa districts in Malawi, highlighting how, with the support of COWHLA and Y+ Malawi, we established a platform and safe space for young people. Through this initiative, we provided psychosocial support to help young people achieve better health outcomes. As a result of these interventions, we saw increased enrollment of young people in ART programs and greater awareness about HIV issues.
I was involved in two panel discussions where I shared my insights on effective strategies for collaborating with youth-led organisations in global health. I emphasised the importance of empowering young people, expanding decision-making spaces, and providing more capacity-building opportunities. It was so inspiring to discuss the successful scaling-up of the READY+ model in Malawi, a milestone that has significantly advanced advocacy for young people living with HIV.
In addition, I had the pleasure of recording a podcast at the Youth Pavilion, where, together with Ivy Jebet and Maxwell Changombe, we discussed the challenges of balancing personal well-being while advocating for and supporting others affected by HIV. We also talked about personalising the concept of self-care and advocating for greater investment in self-care interventions tailored to youth. You can listen to the recording here.
One key moment during the conference was attending a session on innovative approaches to HIV prevention and treatment, which was truly eye-opening. One concept that really resonated with me was the Undetectable=Untransmittable (U=U). It became clear to me that U=U is not just a slogan or a campaign, but a powerful reminder of hope. It has the power to eliminate stigma and change the way people living with HIV approach their lives, encouraging them to live life to the fullest, which can improve overall mental health and well-being.
At other sessions, I learned about some groundbreaking research and new strategies that could completely change the way we approach the HIV epidemic. As someone deeply passionate about HIV cure research, it was incredible to meet two individuals who have been cured of HIV through complete cell transplants or bone marrow procedures. Their stories were beyond inspiring.
What’s more, I got to make some special earrings from ART bottles, which led to some exciting new partnerships with other delegates. Moments like these remind me why I’m so dedicated to this movement.
I had the chance to participate in an international advocacy experience by joining a youth demonstration advocating for improved visa outcomes for young people who were denied visas to attend the AIDS 2024 conference. The conference offered a significant platform for sharing progress and sparked new movements and interventions toward the response.
Reflecting on this experience fills me with renewed hope and determination. The conference was a strong reminder of why we need to keep advocating for change, supporting research, and working toward an HIV-free generation. I cannot find a single word to sum up AIDS 2024, but overall, it was an unforgettable experience that has left me feeling more inspired and motivated than ever. I am eager to see where these new connections and insights will take me next.
I am deeply grateful to Frontline AIDS and Y+ Global for this amazing opportunity, which has given me valuable experience in learning and growing. Thank you for this experience and for continuously supporting young people in these spaces.