Organization: Ireme Initiative Rwanda
Region: Africa
Nationality: Rwanda
Country: Rwanda
Interests & expertise: Co-morbidities (NCDs, mental health, etc.)
Profession or occupation: Advocate/activist
What inspires you to work in the HIV field?
What inspires me to work in the HIV field is deeply personal. I grew up in a rural community where access to accurate health information was scarce, stigma was strong, and many young people silently carried burdens they did not understand. I witnessed how HIV could steal not only lives, but also dignity, opportunities and hope.
That experience planted a fire in me. Today, through the Ireme Initiative, I turn that pain into purpose – creating safe spaces, spreading knowledge and giving rural youth the voice and support I once wished existed for us. My inspiration comes from knowing that every young person deserves to live informed, empowered and free from the shadows of stigma.
What are your goals as an IAS change maker?
As an IAS change maker, my goal is to amplify the voices of young people, especially those in rural communities, who are often left out of conversations around HIV and SRHR. I aim to use this platform to build bridges between young people, mentors and decision makers, ensuring that lived experiences inform real solutions. Through the Ireme Initiative, I want to scale up digital engagement – using WhatsApp mentorship and online video content – to break down stigma and deliver accurate information where it is needed most.
Beyond awareness, my goal is to cultivate youth leadership, empowering peers to not only protect their health, but also to advocate for their rights. By connecting with other change makers, I hope to create a collaborative network that transforms knowledge into action, and action into lasting impact for communities affected by HIV.