Jayson’s parents separated when he was five years old, leaving him all alone. As a result, he was forced to live on the streets in order to find food. The 22-year-old faced innumerable challenges before being referred to an orphanage, Ray of Hope, where he was taken to Alive Medical Services and tested positive for HIV. Even though Jayson faced stigma after learning about his condition, he knew he could rely on the Alive Medical Services family he was introduced to.

Jayson began attending regular adherence sessions and youth days whenever he was called, thanks to the various programs that engage young people at Alive Medical Services such as youth days, adherence sessions, music programs, and school outreaches. “Coming to my medical refill appointments became more exciting as a result of these sessions.”

“Through these sessions, I gained confidence, hope, and a sense of purpose in life, as well as encouragement to stick to my medication in order to live a happy and healthy life.” In 2019, I won a beauty pageant for young people living with HIV, and as a result, I became an HIV ambassador.”

Since then, Jayson has been assisting other young people in overcoming stereotypes and the challenges that young people living with HIV frequently face. He is currently involved in Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights advocacy, where he helps the community by providing information about safe sexual practices. Jayson also uses his story to change the lives of several young people in the community, and he believes that young people must be involved in HIV/SRHR prevention efforts in order to effectively help bring about an AIDS-free generation. Through his involvement in SRHR, he has discovered that digital communications tools such as social media have aided in reaching out to young people, teaching them about HIV prevention, treatment, and stigma, all while synchronizing SRHR information.

“Phones and other forms of digital communication, such as the Internet and social media, are powerful components that can be used to adapt models of health-care service delivery for people living with HIV in rural communities,” he said. “These platforms have the potential to foster communities in hard-to-reach areas around the world, and they are crucial in empowering young people like myself who are working to end HIV stigma while also fighting for an AIDS-free generation.”

We believe that through the various services Alive Medical Services provides to people living with HIV, such as Jayson, there can be a passion to advocate for and create spirit and hope in different young people so that they can share their stories with one another and wider audiences.

“I want to make a difference in the world by eradicating HIV stigma and inspiring other young people living with HIV in my community and around the world, I believe the streets cannot define my future” he says