When I returned home from Nairobi, Kenya, after attending the International Workshop on Adolescence, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), and HIV, I found myself asking, “What did I really learn from this experience?” It took some time to process everything, but one thing became clear: calling this event impactful would be an understatement. It was eye-opening in ways I hadn’t anticipated, and it’s an experience that will stay with me for life.
As I sat down to write this blog, the first thought that crossed my mind was, "Where do I even begin?" This workshop wasn’t just another conference—it was a demonstration of meaningful youth engagement in action. The people, the sessions, and the program covered many real issues and, most importantly, what real inclusion looks like. It gave me the space to reflect, build meaningful connections, and share insights that have already influenced my journey as an advocate for HIV and SRHR. Looking back, I realise how much this experience reignited my passion for driving change. As a young advocate from Burundi with limited opportunities to participate in spaces like this, I knew I had to make the most of it. And I came back feeling that I truly did.
Before the main event began, I had the privilege of attending a Youth Networking Dinner hosted by the UNITED! Movement and the Youth Reference Group. It was a reunion with friends and fellow youth advocates from around the globe—India, Kenya, Namibia, Thailand, South Africa, and more. We discussed the work we were doing and the initiatives we were involved in. I shared the progress of the UNITED! Movement to inspire others to join and get involved.
As a member of the Steering Committee for the UNITED! Movement, I am fortunate to be part of something special that is in its early stages of growth. This experience has given me a voice, and I genuinely feel heard. I've been able to apply my engagement in the committee to my advocacy, which has empowered me as a leader and as someone who can make a difference.
This workshop didn’t just inform me; it reminded me why I am in this space but also fueled my energy and passion. These opportunities are so rare, and I can’t express that enough. This is why I am very grateful to Y+ Global, the UNITED! Movement and UNICEF Eastern and Southern Africa for making this experience possible. Connecting with young advocates from different regions gave me new perspectives and challenged how I’ve been approaching the intersection of HIV and SRHR. I realised that real growth happens when you step out of your comfort zone and learn from people with different experiences.
I’m most proud of the session we led: ‘Reimagining Youth-Led Programming 2.0.’ Building on the success of last year’s session, this time, it was organised by the UNITED! Movement and I had the privilege of being a part of it. I facilitated and helped lead discussions and enjoyed the interactions with fellow advocates on the intersections of HIV and SRHR and other critical social and economic issues, such as gender, technology, and power dynamics between younger and older generations. It was powerful to see and hear how deeply these issues are connected and to recognise that meaningful youth engagement is essential to addressing them effectively.
One of the highlights for me was serving as the rapporteur for a group discussion with decision-makers, PhD-level professionals, and fellow advocates. It wasn’t just a learning experience; it pushed me to rethink my advocacy strategies in ways I hadn’t considered before. I’m excited to bring these new ideas back to my community and my work at RNJ+ (Young People Living with HIV in Burundi), especially as we push for more youth-friendly services.
On a personal note, I feel fortunate to have met Nicky, a long-standing committee member from Thailand who has been organizing this workshop for years. He offered me valuable guidance to help enhance my advocacy efforts, and I hope to apply what I learned in my future work.
As a young advocate for HIV and SRHR—and as someone who has personally walked this journey—I know how important it is for youth to be at the table, shaping the decisions that affect our lives. We need to be heard. We need to be respected as equals. That’s the only way we’re going to create lasting change.