World AIDS Day: Panel Recap

World AIDS Day provides an important opportunity to reflect on the progress made in the fight against HIV and to acknowledge the advancements in support for individuals living with the virus. In a recent panel hosted by Harriet Lunney, Senior Customer Success Manager at myGwork, experts from diverse backgrounds came together to discuss the ongoing work needed to combat stigma and discrimination surrounding HIV. The panelists emphasized the significance of celebrating World AIDS Day as a critical step towards achieving the goal of eradicating HIV transmission by 2030.

Harriet Lunney opened the discussion by sharing her personal connection to HIV. She spoke about how a family member contracting HIV had a profound impact on her journey of allyship and advocacy. Lunney's opening remarks set the stage for the panelists to delve into their own experiences and insights.

Phil Samba, Strategic Lead for PrEP4QueerMenofColour at Prepster, highlighted the importance of World AIDS Day in combating stigma and raising awareness. He emphasized that while progress has been made, it is crucial not to become complacent, urging the HIV and sexual health sector to recognize that HIV stigma still exists and that efforts to reduce stigma must extend to all communities.

“World AIDS Day acts as a reminder that this stigma still exists and that there's still more work to do,” he said. “I think sometimes in the HIV and sexual sector we can get a little bit complacent and think that we've reached these numbers, or say the stats are going down in one group, but it doesn't mean it affects everyone. World AIDS Day is a constant reminder that there's still work to do, and that we also need to stick together in order to reduce some HIV stigma amongst all different communities."

Sue Hunter, Positive Voices Coordinator at Terrence Higgins Trust, shared her pride in being connected to people living with HIV. She spoke candidly about her own HIV status and how openly discussing it has become an integral part of her life. Her empowering words demonstrated the power of advocacy and the importance of normalizing conversations surrounding HIV.

“I am privileged and proud to be connected to 36 amazing people that are living with HIV who are positive voices speakers,” she expressed. “I'm honored to say now I have some of the most amazing people in my life as a woman living with HIV and I speak very openly about my status.”

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Adam Cartledge, Director of Global Sales Enablement at RX Global, and Kurt Macher, General Manager at Shangri-La At The Shard, both shared deeply personal perspectives, describing their own stories relating to HIV. Adam spoke about how receiving his diagnosis forced him to reevaluate his priorities and focus on self-care. Cartledge stressed the importance of prioritizing your own health and embracing the journey to happiness and personal growth.