As we gear up to end AIDS by 2030 as a public health threat, the International Community of Women Living with HIV Eastern Africa (ICWEA) orchestrated an intergenerational meeting under the FIERCE campaign, focusing on addressing a critical issue: AGYW engagement in HIV advocacy and leadership roles. Empowering and putting women and young women at the center of the HIV response is crucial for eliminating this threat. By having older women engage with young women, ICWEA aims to empower the latter to stand up and take leadership positions in HIV spaces. The meeting brought together both generations to discuss, identify, and address the gaps hindering them from taking up leadership roles.
The meeting began with ICWEA’s Deputy ED, Dorothy Namutamba’s powerful words, highlighting the urgent need to celebrate women’s contributions to the HIV response during their lifetimes. Dorothy spoke passionately about the recent losses of two country coordinators in Kenya and Rwanda, underscoring the importance of recognizing and honoring women’s efforts while they are still with us. This sentiment laid the foundation for the day’s events, emphasizing that mentorship and empowerment are crucial for sustaining the HIV response.
The Challenge of Disclosure
A key theme that emerged during the session was the challenge of disclosing one’s HIV status, a significant barrier preventing many AGYW from engaging in HIV advocacy and leadership roles. The fear of stigma and rejection often keeps young women from stepping forward, leaving their potential untapped.
Beatrice Were, a FIERCE Winner from Uganda, addressed this issue head-on with her personal story. “Growing up, I was a quiet person, hindered by the stigma surrounding HIV,” Beatrice began. “I feared that my HIV status would overshadow my capabilities. But I realized that HIV should not define me. Each of you has untapped potential within, waiting to be discovered.”
Changing the Narrative
The session aimed to change the narrative around HIV, fostering a supportive environment where young women could thrive. Discussions focused on the complexities of disclosing one’s HIV status, setting personal boundaries, and navigating the modern challenges posed by social media. Beatrice and other speakers stressed that disclosure should be a personal choice, made with careful consideration of one’s circumstances and support systems.
One young woman shared her fears, “Growing up, I was stigmatized. I used to hide from my mother at night, fearing mosquitoes would infect us with HIV. Today, we need to change this narrative and support each other.”
Barriers to Engagement
The reluctance to disclose HIV status not only affects personal lives but also creates barriers to engagement in HIV spaces. Many AGYW fear that their status will overshadow their contributions and that their members of family will face discrimination and rejection from peers and communities. This fear prevents them from taking up leadership roles and participating fully in advocacy efforts.
Passing the Torch of Leadership
A significant part of the session was dedicated to passing on advocacy and leadership skills. The evolution of media engagement was highlighted, with a shift from local meetings and newspapers to social media and international conferences. Young women were encouraged to build social capital, avoid materialism, and effectively package their advocacy messages.
Beatrice’s recommendations were practical and empowering: “Stay calm, understand organizational dynamics, and be creative. Document your journey, practice self-care, and engage with fierce women who can guide you.”
Action Plan for Sustained Impact
The session concluded with a concrete action plan to ensure the sustainability of the mentorship initiative. This included creating a WhatsApp group and TikTok account for young women, developing social media graphics with key messages, building capacity in proposal writing and advocacy, and conducting social media campaigns guided by ICWEA.
A Bright Future
As the day ended, the energy in the room was palpable. The FIERCE Mentorship Session had reaffirmed the commitment to empower young women in the fight against HIV. Through intergenerational engagement and skills transfer, ICWEA aims to ensure a sustained and effective HIV response, with young women stepping into leadership roles and driving change.
Final Reflections
Beatrice Were’s final remarks echoed in the hearts of all present: “Let’s keep the passion alive and support each other in this journey. Understand your value, document your journey, and practice self-care. Together, we can lead the next phase of the HIV response in Uganda.”
The FIERCE Mentorship Session was more than just an event; it was a journey of empowerment, a testament to the strength and potential of young women living with HIV in Eastern Africa. By addressing the challenge of disclosure and fostering a supportive environment, ICWEA is paving the way for a new generation of leaders ready to take up the mantle and make a difference in the HIV response.
