Organization: Young People +
Region: Europe
Nationality: Belarus
Country: Poland
Interests & expertise: Co-infections (TB, hepatitis, STIs, etc.)
Profession or occupation: Advocate/activist
What inspires you to work in the HIV field?
Every person living with HIV has a unique story. Being able to support them in their journey, whether through advocacy, education or access to treatment, gives me huge inspiration. Seeing the positive impact of my efforts serves as a constant reminder of the importance of this work and motivates me to continue pushing forward. Also, I am one of the few activists in Belarus who acts to support people living with HIV, especially young people. In addition, the authorities have liquidated about 800 NGOs in Belarus. But I want to continue improving the lives of people living with HIV so that in a future democratic Belarus, there is no place for discrimination against people living with HIV.
What are your goals as an IAS change maker?
It is very important for me to raise the visibility of the problems faced by young people living with HIV in Belarus, reduce stigma and discrimination in society, raise awareness about HIV, and support and strengthen the community of people living with HIV. I believe that today, the best way to engage with young people living with HIV and improve their quality of life is to introduce technological innovations into our activities. My goal is to create the first interactive chatbot in Belarus for informational, psychological and legal support for young people living with HIV.