From the moment I arrived, I was ready to dig in and see what ICASA 2023 had to offer. I was surrounded by incredible energy and excitement that filled the conference halls. With so many fascinating sessions to choose from, I was able to expand my knowledge on a variety of topics and had the opportunity to network with people from all over the world. The discussions on mental health, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), and LGBTIQ+ issues were particularly captivating and left me feeling inspired and informed.
As a Young Emerging Leader (YEL), I was joined by 12 other young people who graduated from the first cohort of the program. The program is supported by Love Alliance, which is backed by Aidsfonds and GNP+. At the conference, we introduced the MyReality campaign to the world, which is an ongoing campaign that showcases the lived realities of young key populations from various countries in Africa and aims to demonstrate how governments must act on their commitments to protect young people affected by HIV. This includes tackling the stigma and discrimination that so many young people still face today.
The campaign, which is funded by Love Alliance, provided me with a unique platform to expand my knowledge and skills in various aspects of advocacy. One of the highlights of the campaign was the opportunity to conduct community outreach activities. Throughout the year, I engaged with communities affected by HIV and conducted literacy sessions on HIV and its prevention. These sessions not only raised awareness but also fostered a sense of empowerment among the participants. Additionally, I facilitated advocacy and SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression) trainings, creating a safe space for individuals to learn and share their experiences.
Completing the YEL program was an incredibly fulfilling experience. One of the highlights was the opportunity to connect and engage with other young leaders from around the world. Through sharing our experiences, perspectives, and ideas, we formed a powerful network of like-minded individuals who are all committed to making a positive impact in our communities. The camaraderie and support we shared were truly inspiring and reinforced our belief in the power of collective action.
At the graduation ceremony, we took time to reflect on our personal growth and the valuable knowledge and skills we gained through the YEL program. It was a moment of celebration as we recognized the immense progress we had made in our journey as young emerging leaders. We felt a strong sense of accomplishment and pride in our achievements, which motivated us to continue our work and make an even greater impact.
Embarking on the next chapter of my journey as a young emerging leader, I carry the lessons learned, the motivation gained, and the connections made during the graduation ceremony with me. I'm excited to continue making a difference in my community and beyond, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity that has shaped me into the leader I am today.
