The 2023 Global Stigma Index report revealed that an alarming 85% of people living with HIV experience internal stigma, leading to emotional distress and impacting treatment adherence. Despite its widespread prevalence, effective interventions to combat this issue have been scarce. Wakakosha bridges this gap by empowering young people through a 16-session programme that blends Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (IBSR) techniques with activities like songwriting, meditation, and art therapy. Originally developed in Zimbabwe, the programme has already demonstrated success and is now expanding across Rwanda, Zambia, Ghana, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
According to Deirdre Ní Cheallaigh, our Head of Programmes here in Beyond Stigma, "Internal stigma is a silent struggle that too many young people living with HIV face every day. At Beyond Stigma, we believe that everyone deserves to live with self-worth and dignity. Through creativity, connection, and evidence-based techniques, we are not just addressing stigma—we are empowering lives and building a future where everyone can thrive."
At its core, Wakakosha provides safe spaces for emotional healing and peer connection. “Sometimes I used to feel ashamed and bad about myself,” shared one participant, “but after the session, I realised that I don’t need to feel bad. I need to give information about internal stigma to adolescents out there living with HIV.”
The programme's impact is tangible. In 2024 alone, 102 participants across Rwanda, Zimbabwe, and Ghana completed Wakakosha’s intensive six-day residential training. Qualitative feedback highlighted profound improvements in self-worth, stress management, and emotional resilience. Participants praised the programme’s supportive atmosphere, with activities like meditation and group discussions proving particularly transformative.
In addition to these workshops, Wakakosha has rolled out "Internal Stigma, Self-Love" experiential workshops in Rwanda, Ghana, Zambia, and at the International AIDS Conference in Munich. These sessions, led by young peer educators, reached over 70 participants, fostering open discussions and encouraging personal storytelling. A peer-support guide has also been developed, providing tailored resources to meet the unique needs of those affected by HIV.
This year, Wakakosha will further expand its reach, with digital resources set to increase accessibility and tailored materials being piloted in Cambodia. The vision is clear: to create a global movement that uplifts vulnerable communities, challenges stigma, and fosters self-empowerment.
As the Co-founder and CEO of Beyond Stigma, I have witnessed firsthand the power of advocacy to change lives. My journey in this space began years ago with the co-founding of the Key Correspondents Team which enabled communities to tell their own stories about HIV and TB. These experiences laid the foundation for the work we do today, including Wakakosha. Beyond Stigma also continues to amplify voices through partnerships, ensuring that the stories of resilience and change are heard worldwide. By tackling internal stigma, Wakakosha is not just improving individual lives but also strengthening global efforts to eliminate HIV-related discrimination and achieve health equity.
Nadine Ferris France - CNS
(Citizen News Service)
10 October 2024
