Project to increase the knowledge and awareness of adolescents and young people (13-24 years of age) on HIV prevention, risk, vulnerability and sexual responsibility.

Who's involved? 

Project coordinators: Dahina Odeisy Delgado, Teresa Medina

 Lead organisation: Alianza Solidaria Para La Lucha Contra El VIH/SIDA (ASOLSIDA) and La Red Jóvenes Por Siempre (JPS)

Other organisations: Fundación Cultural Cayenas

Timeframe: February - November 2009

Objectives: 

• Increase the knowledge of young people from 13 to 24 through identifying forms of prevention for HIV and promoting sexual responisbility, 
• Use theatre shows on HIV and AIDS to raise public awareness, identifying forms of stigma and discrimination,
• Discuss openly issues relating to HIV and AIDS, respecting freedom of thought, sexual orientation and religious beliefs,
• Dispel myths and misconceptions through real life testimonies from people living with or affected by HIV or AIDS
• Strengthen the knowledge of young people with regards to their rights, transmission, prevention and the services available to them

Activities: 

The group collectively developed theatre scripts which identified forms of stigma and discrimination on HIV and AIDS and clarified myths and misconceptions. The theatrical pieces were performed in 10 schools in different neighbourhoods as well as in community centres and hospices. Each show involved a survey to identify how informed the audience was on HIV and AIDS. This survey was carried out before and after each performance to evaluate their success. At the end of each performance, the audience also had the opportunity to interact with the educators in order to clarify and emphasize the themes represented in the plays.

Results:

The project was a success and proved to strengthen the knowledge and skills of young people relating to HIV and AIDS, risk and prevention. They were encouraged to discuss the issue of HIV and AIDS openly amongst their peers.

Downloads:

Project proposal [PDF – 222 KB]
Work plan [PDF - 47 KB]

Progress reports:
25 August 2009 
Progress report [PDF - 206 KB] 
Photos [PDF - 3.9 MB]