Ali Raza Khan

Tag: Pakistan & Pakistani

  • The Impact of Climate Change on People Living with HIV, Men Having Sex with Men and Gay Communities in Pakistan: Insights from the AIDS 2024 Conference

    The Impact of Climate Change on People Living with HIV, Men Having Sex with Men and Gay Communities in Pakistan: Insights from the AIDS 2024 Conference

    Munich, Germany – At the AIDS 2024 conference, Ali Raza Khan, founder of Pride Pakistan, delivered a compelling speech on the intersection of climate change and its effects on people living with HIV, gay men, and men who have sex with men (MSM). His presentation highlighted the severe impacts of climate change on these vulnerable communities, particularly in Pakistan.

    The Devastating Effects of Floods in South Punjab

    In 2024, more than 100 people have died due to flood-related atrocities in Pakistan. Ali Raza Khan, hailing from South Punjab, one of the most affected regions, shared his personal experiences and the struggles faced by his community. He emphasized that the gay community members in Pakistan are significantly impacted by the changing climate, including extreme heat, heavy rainfall, and increased water pollution.

    Watch The Recording Below

    Ali Raza Khan founder Pride Pakistan spoke about climate and effect on people living with HIV, gays and men having sex with men during the AIDS 2024 conference in Munich.

    Community Insights and Statistics

    Khan presented data from studies conducted by Pride Pakistan, available on their website PridePakistan.org. He focused on the flood aspects, revealing that in the past five years, 100% of the community members surveyed reported being affected by flooding or heavy rainfall. This statistic underscores the pervasive nature of climate-related challenges in the region.

    When asked about their concerns regarding climate change, 82% of the community members expressed that they believe climate change has a significant impact on their lives. Only 17% did not consider it a priority. Furthermore, 100% of the respondents acknowledged that climate change poses a threat to their health and well-being.

    Beyond Climate: Additional Challenges

    Khan also highlighted other pressing issues in Pakistan, such as terrorist activities and conflicts in regions like Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), which cover more than 70% of Pakistan’s geographical area. These areas have limited healthcare services, exacerbating the struggles faced by the communities. For instance, in Balochistan, only one community-based organization serves a vast area, and access to services is further hindered by floods and security issues.

    Resilience and Adaptation

    Despite these challenges, the community continues to show resilience. In Pakistan, where gay men and MSM are criminalized, community services and healthcare remain crucial. Young people are actively engaged in mitigation measures, such as plantation projects, to counter the impacts of climate change. The community is also collaborating with stakeholders to ensure inclusive efforts for those living with HIV, gay men, and MSM.

    Khan concluded his speech by emphasizing the need for continued adaptation to the changing climate. He called for greater support and collaboration to address the multifaceted challenges faced by these vulnerable communities.

    Ali Raza Khan’s speech at the AIDS 2024 conference serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and its disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. His insights highlight the resilience and determination of these communities in the face of adversity. For more detailed information and studies, visit AliRazaKhan.com and PridePakistan.org.

    Link to program details on International Aids Society: https://programme.aids2024.org/Programme/Session/15

    Link to Recordings on International Aids Society Page:

    https://plus.iasociety.org/webcasts/resilience-rising-understanding-impact-emergencies-communities

    Rapporteur Summary

    AUTHOR

    Lucy Wanjiku Njenga

    SUMMARY

    Civil society has always been at the center of emergencies ensuring that their communities are able to overcome the challenges and impacts that are left behind when emergencies happen. The communities pull their resources together to address these issues and this is not an event rather a process.

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Whether it is floods in Pakistan, violence, unrest and natural calamities in Haiti, immigrants and refugees in Europe, UK, Columbia and Peru; the communities of people most affected come together to address the challenges head on. “Governments come and go but civil society is always there to work with communities,” shared Mary Ann Torres of ICASO who took the participants through Venezuela advocacy for Global Fund grant. As a country that did not fit what was required to get funded by the Global Fund, the civil society members organised and advocated relentlessly sharing their true lived realities and this saw the country become a recipient of the fund. “The location might be different but the experiences the same. If organisations and communities can share with each other, to learn from each other instead of reinventing the wheel, a lot can be achieved.” Shared Judy Otti of the African Advocacy Foundation. “It is important to understand emergencies last longer and have lasting impact…More resources are needed to ensure that the communities are not left on their own to figure it out.” said Mary Ann Torres

    CRITICAL ASSESSMENT

    Time and time again, civil society picks up the pieces of what is left of their communities after an emergency. When the rest of the world moves on to focus on the country and the next issue, they are the ones who have to figure out how to function in the new normal. For this to be possible and continue, there is need to invest continuously in these efforts.

  • Connectedness & Community – Ali Raza Khan Journey with UNICEF Global Partnership for Adolescent and Young Key Populations

    Connectedness & Community – Ali Raza Khan Journey with UNICEF Global Partnership for Adolescent and Young Key Populations

    It was an honor to be invited by the UNICEF-led Global Partnership for Adolescents and Young Key Populations (Global ayKP Partnership) to speak at their recent event. The topic, “Connectedness & Community,” resonates deeply with the work we are doing on the ground in Pakistan for children and young people living with HIV and other vulnerable key populations, including gays, MSM (men who have sex with men), and sex workers. Here’s a summary of the insights I shared during the session.

    At HIV Voices, we define ourselves as a youth-led initiative working for young people living with HIV and adolescents from key populations. Our approach leverages digital and innovative methods to reach individuals who are often difficult to engage due to their circumstances and locations in Pakistan. Our group comprises a diverse array of young people dedicated to spreading awareness about HIV, prevention methods, and addressing the unique challenges we face, including security concerns and the impact of climate change.

    Engagement and Empowerment

    One of our core activities involves ensuring that adolescent and young key population (ykp) voices are heard. This includes:

    • Mobilizing our members
    • Conducting capacity-building training sessions
    • Utilizing various platforms and methods available on the ground
    • Making our voices heard at national and global levels through letter and story campaigns, particularly on digital and social media platforms.

    Fostering Reproductive Health and Rights

    We place significant emphasis on the reproductive health and rights of adolescents and young girls. Our efforts are not just about HIV prevention but also about creating a safe space where key populations can voice their concerns and work together to tackle issues that affect their well-being.

    Connectedness as a Core Theme

    The theme of connectedness is at the heart of our work, especially in a conservative country like Pakistan, where key populations are criminalized, and safe spaces are scarce. We often face pressure from various security-related entities and other stakeholders, which can hinder our efforts. However, understanding and navigating these conditions is our strength. As young people and peer mentors, we know how to deal with the issues we encounter on the ground, ensuring that young people from key populations and other stakeholders remain connected and that our voices are heard.

    Addressing Interconnected Issues

    When working with vulnerable key populations, we sometimes overlook interconnected issues. Our programs and activities aim to bridge this gap by raising awareness and fostering collaboration among different groups. For example, we’ve facilitated exercises that help participants understand how issues affecting one key population are linked to those of another, promoting a more unified approach to addressing these challenges.

    A Message of Empowerment

    Allow me to share a powerful message from Aslam, a young man living with HIV and a member of our group, Young Positive People of Pakistan:


    “Hello everyone, my name is Aslam, and I’m a young man living with HIV. When I was diagnosed through a community-based organization working for key populations, I felt the need for additional support and a desire to contribute to my community. Connecting with Young Positive People of Pakistan not only helped me feel supported but also empowered me in navigating HIV-related systems. Since becoming a member, I have expanded my knowledge about the global fund process in Pakistan, learned about the contributions of various stakeholders, and represented young PLHIV (people living with HIV) on national and international platforms. This involvement has enabled me to address our community’s issues effectively and advocate for our rights.”

    The work we do on the ground, driven by the theme of connectedness, is vital. It’s crucial for global organizations and partnerships to continue supporting these efforts at a global level. The empowerment and collaboration of young key populations are essential to creating an inclusive and effective response to HIV. Thank you to the Global Partnership for Adolescents and Young Key Populations for providing this platform and for recognizing the importance of our collective efforts.

    Together, we can make a difference.

    Read more about the session

    On ayKP website hosted by UNICEF here

    https://www.childrenandaids.org/aykp-partnership-webinar-series

    Watch the session on UNICEF YouTube channel here

  • Speaker Ali Raza Khan: From Ruin to Resilience: Harnessing Community Strength in the Face of Natural Disasters

    Speaker Ali Raza Khan: From Ruin to Resilience: Harnessing Community Strength in the Face of Natural Disasters

    Munich, Germany – The AIDS 2024 conference will feature a pivotal session titled “From Ruin to Resilience: Harnessing Community Strength in the Face of Natural Disasters,” highlighting the critical intersection of climate change and public health. This scientific symposium, accredited for Continuing Medical Education (CME), will take place on July 25, 2024, from 15:00 to 16:00 local time in Room 13a for in-person participation and on Channel 6 for virtual attendees.

    Spotlight on Ali Raza Khan

    One of the key speakers for this session is Ali Raza Khan, an HIV-positive gay activist from Multan, Pakistan. Khan is the founder of PridePakistan.org and co-lead of TheYouthPACT.org. His work focuses on advocating for the rights and health of marginalized communities, particularly those affected by HIV and climate change.

    Session Overview

    Moderated by Mary Ann Torres from ICASO, the session will delve into the dire impacts of emergencies caused by pandemics, war, the climate crisis, and other catastrophic events on vulnerable and marginalized communities. The discussion will cover a range of critical issues, including:

    • Continuity of Care: Ensuring ongoing care for children and young people born with HIV.
    • Access Disruptions: Addressing interruptions in HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services.
    • Challenges for Migrants and Refugees: Highlighting the specific difficulties faced by these groups.
    • Increased Vulnerability to Co-Infections: Focusing on diseases such as diarrhoea, lung infections, and TB.
    • Impact of Food and Water Shortages: Examining how these shortages increase vulnerability to illness.
    • Inequalities in Social Protection: Discussing disparities in access to social safety nets.
    • Risk of Violence and Exploitation: Addressing the heightened risk of violence and exploitation in crisis situations.
    • Gender Inequality and Gender-Based Violence: Exploring the exacerbation of these issues during emergencies.
    • Forced HIV Testing of Migrants: Highlighting the ethical and health implications.
    • Funding Challenges: Discussing the impact of dwindling resources in the face of multiple crises.
    • Link to program details on International Aids Society: https://programme.aids2024.org/Programme/Session/15

    Ali Raza Khan’s Contribution

    Ali Raza Khan will share insights from his extensive work in Pakistan, where he has witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of climate change on communities living with HIV. His presentation will focus on the resilience and strength of these communities in the face of natural disasters. Khan will highlight the innovative strategies employed by community organizations to mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as plantation projects and collaborations with stakeholders to ensure inclusive efforts for those living with HIV.

    Other Speakers

    The session will also feature contributions from:

    • Juddy Otti from the Africa Advocacy Foundation, United Kingdom
    • Sophia Charles from Caris Foundation International, United States

    These speakers will provide a global perspective on the challenges and solutions related to the health of vulnerable communities during emergencies.

    Ali Raza Khan’s participation in this session underscores the importance of community-led initiatives and the need for global solidarity in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by natural disasters and other crises. His work with Pride Pakistan and The Youth PACT exemplifies the power of resilience and the critical role of advocacy in safeguarding the health and rights of marginalized populations.

    Link to program details on International Aids Society: https://programme.aids2024.org/Programme/Session/15

  • Advancing Religious Equality: Ali Raza Khan’s Groundbreaking Research on Youth Behavior in South Punjab

    Advancing Religious Equality: Ali Raza Khan’s Groundbreaking Research on Youth Behavior in South Punjab

    As a dedicated minorities rights activist and researcher, Ali Raza Khan has been at the forefront of advocating for religious equality and peace in South Punjab, Pakistan. With a deep commitment to fostering understanding and inclusivity, Ali recently conducted a research project titled “The impact of the curriculum and interaction with diverse groups of people on youth behavior towards people from religious minority backgrounds in South Punjab, Pakistan.” This research was supported by JLIFLC.com and sought to address critical issues related to youth behavior and religious equality in the region.

    About the Research Project
    Ali Raza Khan’s research aimed to analyze youth behavior towards people of other religions, focusing on their interactions and learnings. The project involved a comprehensive review of previous research and a new survey, conducted both in person and online, to gather data from 366 young individuals from diverse backgrounds in South Punjab, primarily the Multan region. This approach allowed for a nuanced understanding of the current attitudes and behaviors of youth towards religious minorities.

    Key Findings
    The research revealed several significant insights:

    • Backlash Against Conversations on Religious Minority Rights: The survey results indicated that discussions about the rights of people from religious minorities continue to face resistance from the young community. This highlights the deep-seated prejudices that persist within society.
    • Polarization in Society: The findings also showed that society remains polarized, with many young people believing that the educational curriculum still requires substantial improvements to advocate for religious equality effectively.
    • Lack of Educational Data on PVE: The research underscored the need for more comprehensive educational data on peace and violent extremism (PVE) in South Punjab, which could be used to enhance the curriculum and promote religious equality.

    Ali Raza Khan’s Perspective
    Ali Raza Khan, who resides in the South Punjab region, has witnessed numerous sectarian violent incidents throughout his life. This lived experience has fueled his passion for working towards peace and PVE. Since 2015, Ali has collaborated with multiple national, international, and global organizations, where he identified a significant gap in educational data on PVE in his region. This realization motivated him to undertake this research and collect relevant data to address these issues.

    “I live in the South Punjab region of Pakistan which has seen a number of sectarian violent incidents throughout history. This lived experience inspired me to start working for peace and PVE. Since 2015, I have been working for multiple national, international and global organisations and I found that there is a lack of educational data on PVE in my region that could be used in curriculum that advocates for religious equality. This overall situation encouraged me to start my research and collect data relevant to these issues.”

    – Ali Raza Khan, Researcher


    Ali Raza Khan’s research project is a testament to his unwavering dedication to promoting religious equality and understanding in South Punjab. By shedding light on the attitudes and behaviors of youth towards religious minorities, Ali’s work contributes to a broader effort to create an inclusive and equitable society. His findings underscore the urgent need for educational reforms and more comprehensive data on PVE to address the challenges faced by religious minorities. Through this research, Ali aims to inspire change and encourage policymakers, educators, and communities to work together in fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of their religious background, can coexist peacefully and with mutual respect. Ali Raza Khan’s efforts serve as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and harmonious future in Pakistan. By highlighting the importance of religious equality and the need for educational reforms, Ali Raza Khan’s research paves the way for meaningful progress in South Punjab. His dedication to peace and advocacy for marginalized communities continues to inspire and drive positive change.

    Read more about research on Joint Learning Initiative on Faith & Local Communities JLIFLC website Here

    https://jliflc.com/the-impact-of-the-curriculum-and-interaction-with-diverse-groups-of-people-on-youth-behaviour-towards-people-from-religious-minority-backgrounds-in-south-punjab-pakistan

  • First Meeting of the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets: A Robust Start

    First Meeting of the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets: A Robust Start

    On May 10th, 2023, the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets convened for their first meeting. This group, composed of global stakeholders dedicated to advancing the fight against HIV, gathered to discuss the development of a monitoring framework for the ambitious 30-80-60 targets set in the 2021 Political Declaration on HIV and AIDS. The meeting brought together diverse voices, including Ali Raza Khan, an HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan, who represents young HIV-positive gay individuals and sex workers from the EMRO region. The meeting began with opening remarks from key UNAIDS representatives, highlighting the importance of the 30-80-60 targets. The targets aim to prevent 3.6 million new HIV infections and 1.7 million AIDS-related deaths by 2030 through community-led efforts.

    Overview of the 30-80-60 Targets:

    1. 30 per cent of testing and treatment services, focusing on HIV testing, linkage to treatment, adherence, retention support, and treatment literacy.

    2. 80 per cent of HIV prevention services for populations at high risk of infection, including women within those populations.

    3. 60 per cent of programs supporting societal enablers to reduce stigma, discrimination, punitive laws, and gender-based violence.

    The advisory group discussed the need for a robust monitoring framework to track progress towards the 30-80-60 targets. Existing data collection and reporting mechanisms used by community-led organizations were explored. Ideas to strengthen and build on these mechanisms to inform national and global monitoring were shared. The group expressed the need for more discussion and engagement to ensure everyone is on the same page. Participants were encouraged to provide feedback and suggest amendments to the proposed process for developing the monitoring framework. The importance of agreeing on principles and critical success factors to ensure the framework’s effectiveness was highlighted.

    Conclusion: The first meeting of the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets set a strong foundation for future efforts. The diverse perspectives and insights shared by members, including Ali Raza Khan, emphasized the importance of inclusive and community-led approaches to achieve the ambitious 2025 targets. As the group moves forward, their collaborative efforts will be instrumental in shaping a monitoring framework that drives meaningful change in the global fight against HIV. 🌍❤️

    Read more about 2025 targets and 30-80-60 targets on UNAIDS site Here: https://crossroads.unaids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/GAU-2024-Annex-1-En.pdf

  • Ali Raza Khan Joins UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets

    Ali Raza Khan Joins UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets

    Ali Raza Khan, an HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan, has been invited to join the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets. This esteemed group comprises global stakeholders dedicated to advancing the fight against HIV. Ali’s involvement marks a significant step towards ensuring the voices of young HIV-positive gay individuals and sex workers from Pakistan and the EMRO region are heard and represented in global HIV initiatives.

    Background on the 30-80-60 Targets:

    The 2021 Political Declaration on HIV and AIDS, adopted by United Nations Member States, set forth ambitious targets to be achieved by 2025. The goals are to prevent 3.6 million new HIV infections and 1.7 million AIDS-related deaths by 2030. Three specific targets emphasize the role of community-led organizations in delivering HIV-related services:

    1. 30 per cent of testing and treatment services, focusing on HIV testing, linkage to treatment, adherence, retention support, and treatment literacy.

    2. 80 per cent of HIV prevention services for populations at high risk of infection, including women within those populations.

    3. 60 per cent of programs supporting societal enablers to reduce stigma, discrimination, punitive laws, and gender-based violence.

    Community-led organizations are pivotal in the HIV response, reflecting the experiences, perspectives, and voices of their constituencies. These organizations operate independently of government, commercial, or donor influences, ensuring they are truly representative and accountable to their communities.

    Ali Raza Khan brings a wealth of experience and passion to the advisory group.

    As the founder of Pride Pakistan and an advocate for HIV-positive gay individuals and sex workers, Ali’s insights are invaluable. His participation underscores the importance of including marginalized voices in global health strategies. The advisory group aims to develop a robust monitoring framework for the 30-80-60 targets. This involves exploring existing data collection and reporting mechanisms used by community-led organizations and identifying opportunities to strengthen them. Ali’s involvement will ensure that the unique challenges and needs of key populations are considered in the framework. Ali’s membership in the advisory group highlights the recognition of the crucial role that young HIV-positive gay activists play in the global HIV response. His advocacy efforts will contribute to the development of effective strategies to achieve the 30-80-60 targets and improve the lives of those affected by HIV. Ali Raza Khan’s inclusion in the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets is a testament to his dedication and leadership in the fight against HIV. His unique perspective and experience will be instrumental in shaping the future of HIV prevention, treatment, and support services. 🌍❤️

    Read more about 2025 targets and 30-80-60 targets on UNAIDS site Here: https://crossroads.unaids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/GAU-2024-Annex-1-En.pdf

  • Ali Raza Khan Selected for Prestigious PVE, Youth & Interfaith Research Capacity Building Project

    Ali Raza Khan Selected for Prestigious PVE, Youth & Interfaith Research Capacity Building Project

    I was thrilled to share some exciting news

    I was selected as a participant in the “Preventing Violent Extremism (PVE), Youth & Interfaith: Research Capacity Building Project.” This initiative, jointly organized by the Joint Learning Initiative on Faith & Local Communities (JLI) and Interfaith Dialogue on Violent Extremism (iDove), aimed at empowering young researchers from around the world to contribute to the critical field of PVE.

    About the Project

    The PVE, Youth & Interfaith: Research Capacity Building Project took place from September to December 2022. The primary goal of this initiative was to involve local community members, especially young people and faith actors, in decision-making processes regarding the prevention of violent extremism. Often, these key stakeholders were excluded, despite their invaluable insights and experiences on the ground.

    To address this gap, JLI, in partnership with iDove, supported 12 young individuals from diverse backgrounds to develop evidence-based research on youth, faith, and PVE. Over several months, we received comprehensive training in research methods, analysis, and communication. This not only enhanced our skills and experience but also boosted our credibility in knowledge production.

    My Journey and Experience

    Being selected for this project was an incredible journey. Throughout the program, I had the opportunity to conduct an independent research project in my country, focusing on the intersection of youth, faith, and PVE. The support and guidance from JLI and iDove were instrumental in navigating this complex and sensitive topic.

    One of the highlights of the project was the chance to publish our research. Additionally, we organized and participated in a global, public webinar to share our experiences and showcase our work. This platform allowed us to reach a wider audience, including policymakers, practitioners, and donors working on PVE, conflict, and peacebuilding.

    Key Learnings and Reflections

    The project emphasized the importance of inclusive and collaborative approaches in preventing violent extremism. By involving young people and faith actors, we ensured that PVE initiatives were more effective and sustainable. Our collective research highlighted the need for social cohesion, justice, and peace, while also addressing potential risks and harms to communities.

    Challenges Faced

    Working on such a sensitive topic as interfaith dialogue in the conservative society of Pakistan posed several challenges. There were cultural and societal barriers that made conducting research difficult. Additionally, finding participants who were willing to openly discuss these issues required building trust and ensuring confidentiality. Despite these hurdles, the project provided invaluable insights and underscored the importance of addressing these challenges to create a more inclusive and peaceful society.

    The final webinar in December 2022 was a fitting conclusion to this enriching experience. We presented our research findings, shared challenges and successes, and reflected on the lessons learned. You could watch the online event on YouTube here to learn more about the challenges we faced.

    Moving Forward

    As I continue my journey in this field, I am committed to applying the knowledge and skills gained from this project to contribute to meaningful change. I am grateful to JLI, iDove, and all the participants for this incredible opportunity. Together, we can build a more just and peaceful world.

    Stay tuned for more updates and insights from my research on AliRazaKhan.com.

    Read more on Joint Learning Initiative on Faith & Local Communities (JLI)

    website here

    https://jliflc.com/pve-youth-interfaith-project

    or Twitter X account here

  • World AIDS Day 2021 an interview with Ali Raza Khan : HIV HERO Award Laureate 2021

    World AIDS Day 2021 an interview with Ali Raza Khan : HIV HERO Award Laureate 2021

    HIV HERO

    Supported by APCOM Community Partner – APN+

    Ali Raza Khan

    Pakistan

    My name is Ali Raza Khan and I’m a 28-year-old PLHIV activist working for my community. I live in Multan, a small but culturally rich town of Pakistan also known as the City of Saints. I come from a poor family living in the red-light area of the town that led me to adopt risky behaviors without protection. I grew up facing stigma and discrimination because of my identity, status and being from a minority group. Because of my status and identity, I faced bad times when trying to access health services or for exercising my rights. Facing and dealing with these bad times encouraged me to work for my community that is still suffering around Pakistan. I always look for opportunities to learn, catch positive skills and knowledge from other expert people, or try to learn new things on my own. I’m doing all this to empower other PLHIVs so that that they can also raise voices for their health and rights collectively.

    Please briefly let us know about your work

    I started working for HIV awareness and prevention in 2015 from my university days as volunteer of HYPE national youth group of Rutgers in Pakistan. I continued my volunteer work for the community along with different organizations including FDI, Aahung, ACT, ISYD, YAN, KSS and APLHIV. I started my full-time job for PLHIV withTrans Welfare Organization, a CBO working for HIV among the TG community. TWOCBO provided me the opportunity to speak about the PLHIV community. Later, I joined Wasaib Sanwaro, a CBO working for MSM and amplified my efforts by representing PLHIVs at international platforms. I started my own initiative “Hi Voices” due to the lack of any dedicated platform for the empowerment of YPLHIVs and because many PLHIVs lack the required skills and knowledge to raise their voices. Currently, at national level, I’m organizing capacity building training for YPLHIVs under the Young Positive People of Pakistan Program. Apart from these efforts I’m empowering PLHIVs at the regional and global level with The PACT and YPEER. I’m also trying to influence stakeholders and policy making via Youth LEAD and as a member of Communities Delegation to the board of The Global Fund.

    What one achievement you’ve accomplished that you’re most proud of

    I’m proud of training other PLHIVs who wanted to raise their voices. One of our alumni participated in our capacity building training and was volunteering in our campaigns all the time. He contacted me and said he learned a lot from my organization and is going to start a platform related to PLHIVs issues. It was the moment when I felt that I may be succeeding in my mission to empower other PLHIVs. I am proud of him and his work because I dedicated my time to PLHIVs with the only one objective of empowering them.

    What do you find most challenging about your work

    Working for PLHIVs in a conservative humanitarian setting of Pakistan was most challenging. It is still challenging because a PLHIV activist must face multiple obstructions every day. One does not only struggle with the issues that he or she is working for, but also struggles with society, norms, policies and opposition that stops others from accessing and practicing their basic health and rights. These things make my efforts and work more challenging in a conservative humanitarian setting of Pakistan.

    What do you do to recharge your battery

    I connect with people from the PLHIV community and spend time with them. I share and talk with people who are working for a similar cause. I get re-energized when I work for the PLHIV community in a way that saves their life. I listen to the stories of people how they were able to bring some positive change in the lives of PLHIVs. I try to make them happy and smile. A smile and happiness on their faces brings smile on my face too.

    What is your vulnerability and how do you overcome it

    I sometimes indulge into things related to the PLHIV community and I forget to make sufficient time available for myself and my family. I try to overcome this be ensuring specific days and specific times dedicated to my family and community work. Also scheduling my work helps me overcome this issue.

    What was your reaction to being named one of the honourees for the HIV Hero category

    I felt happy to be nominated for the HIV HERO award. I see this as an appreciation and encouragement to continue my work for the community, irrespective of how harsh the conditions on the ground are. I felt excited about this award because there are very few people and platforms to support and appreciate the work of PLHIVs as HERO Award is doing.

    Despite the fact that the COVID-19 is still with us, what is a message that you would like to share with the communities in the Asia Pacific

    We learned a lot from the COVID-19 crisis, including supporting each other and the marginalized communities. Together we learned how to fight these pandemics and find the cure and access to treatment for all, irrespective of power gaps.  My message to all the communities in Asia and the Pacific is to work collectively to end discrimination associated with people affected by diseases. 

    Read more on Asia Pacific Coalition of Men Having Sex with Men APCOM

    Facebook Page Here

    https://www.facebook.com/apcom.org/posts/an-interview-with-ali-raza-khan-the-heroawards2021-hiv-hero-honourees-from-pakis/6468091943265287

    Website Here

    HERO Awards 2021 Community Partners APN+, APTN and ILGA Asia Unveil much anticipated honourees list
  • From Pakistan to The Youth PACT: Ali Raza Khan Joined the Global Movement

    From Pakistan to The Youth PACT: Ali Raza Khan Joined the Global Movement

    Good to have you talk to us, and welcome to The PACT interview series: can you tell us about yourself, maybe the ones we do not know yet.

    My name is Ali Raza Khan, a young person living with HIV community member working for sexual and gender minorities and people living with HIV and gay in my local community and for gay and HIV positive people around the globe. I’m simple introvert guy who speaks less but shows his worth via my actions and work. I have been working as a volunteer, part time or full time for HIV and AIDS prevention since 2015 with multiple local, national, regional and international organisations including local community based organisations, Regional Networks of key populations and Communities Delegation to the Global Fund Board. Currently, I’m leading an organisation called Pride Pakistan and Institute of HIV Education and Research which is working for education of HIV and AIDS among young key vulnerable populations.

    Why are you passionate about HIV, SRHR ? How did the passion spring up?

    I started working for HIV awareness in 2015 as a volunteer. After knowing my positive status, I devoted myself for betterment of young people living with HIV in my community. The motivation to work for my community came from my life experiences in conservative society of Pakistan.
    I had faced what a young people living with HIV and sex workers had to face in accessing and practicing their health and rights. I have raised voice for my gay and HIV positive community fellows that was suffering due to negligence of health system towards people living with HIV from gay and sex workers community.
    I have seen young community members in front of me losing their life due to AIDS. I believe many of such lives can be saved with little more efforts and improvements. There are lots of things which needs to be improved to prevent our future generations from HIV epidemic. That is why I want to be part of this life force so that I can make my work more impactful via this platform.

    Why did you join The PACT?

    I joined The PACT to work for my global young gay and HIV positive community beyond borders, language, cultures, and any other differences just for this one cause of ending new HIV and AIDS infection by 2030.

    A portrait of Ali Raza Khan

    What motivates you to keep pushing and working for the benefit of young people?

    The small appreciations from my community. The words of appreciation for saving one’s life or improving lives or feedback from community after sharing information related to sexual, reproductive health and rights. I myself face these community issues everyday, and as long as they are here they push me to continue.

    What are your hopes for the future of the youth HIV movement?

    I want to see young gay and HIV positive people raise their voices without any fear of discrimination or stigma. I want to see a day where they will not only work for their own selves but for other vulnerable people as well, becoming ideals for others that can follow them in future.

    What would be your message to young people all over the world working to end AIDS by 2030?

    Stay strong, work together to make your voices heard at each and every level of the society.

    Read more on The Youth PACT website here

    From Pakistan to The PACT: Ali Raza Khan on Joining this Global Movement

    And on The Youth PACT Facebook here

    https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1183674622090697

  • THE DAY I WAS DIGNOSED HIV AND STARTED MY ARV TREATMENT

    THE DAY I WAS DIGNOSED HIV AND STARTED MY ARV TREATMENT

    19th April 2019: THE DAY I WAS DIGNOSED HIV AND STARTED MY ARV TREATMENT

    Hi, I’m Raza, a young non-binary from Pakistan. I have completed my post-graduation and planning for a PhD from a PLHIV friendly country because I am from the YPLHIV community and I’m not shy to tell that however It wasn’t always like that.

    There were bad times when I was not well mentally and physically. I remember that it was a kind of normal thing for my family to take me to emergency because of high fever even after getting medications. Sometimes it disappears for a few days and sometimes for months. It was not just the fever there were also other complications like bloody diarrhea. I was afraid of eating or going to the toilet as medications were not helping for long.

    I remember the day I was diagnosed with HIV in April 2019. I wasn’t afraid of it at first until I witnessed a 15-year-old young boy dying of AIDS in the HIV/AIDS department of the hospital during my first visit to get ARVS. His body was dark, dried and lean on a bench 3 feet to where I was sitting. I did not want my life to end up like that nor the lives of other young people. The death of this boy can be prevented if diagnosed and treated on time with support of the community. I spent months thinking from where I might have contracted HIV but never got the answer. Thinking about that was a burden on mental health as there were multiple instances where I might have contracted it so I left thinking about it.

    I came to know after 4 months that my ARV formula wasn’t working because of high viral load in my reports. These were the days when I told about my status to my close ones. Unlike my expectations they were supportive. Here in my city it takes almost a month to get viral load results as the ART center sends blood samples to the capital city and reports come back after 15 to 30 days. I don’t like these delays not only for my own but also for other YPLHIV for whom this time can be critical. I still have marks of blisters I got on my body due to high viral load and reaction of my 2nd ARV formula which I have to leave after a week. This was the time I needed support from my family and friends and so I got unlike other YPLHIV people who ask for support on online support groups. Becoming part of online PLHIV community groups gave me deep insight of how difficult it is for PLHIV especially young people to get support. I tried my best to support other YPLHIV by talking to them using online platforms.

    Most people believe that people living with HIV just have to take one tablet a day but that’s not true as I have to take six tablets a day 3 in morning and 3 In evening. This is the 3rd ARV formula. I have been taking this for more than 9 months. It seems to be working as I have gained my lost weight and there are no more complications. However, I’m not sure because the viral load test report can prove that but in this COVID-19 situation ART center delayed my viral load test which they were supposed to take after six months. Now after situation came back to normal I was able to receive viral load test and got my report with undetectable viral load. I’m happy and so want others YPLHIV members to stay happy by achieving undetectable.

    I had worked part time as a SRHR young advocate before knowing my status but devoted my full time and changed my field of work after knowing my status. As my previous workplace didn’t have a friendly environment for people with special needs. Now I’m working for HIV/AIDS prevention in my town. I’m working in a community-based organization openly as PLHIV to contribute my part to stop new HIV cases among young people. I openly talk about HIV and AIDS and how we can end discrimination and stigma associated with PLHIV on which many SRHR activists also feel shied to talk. I believe my open discussion can help directly or indirectly to prevent a new HIV case. As the 1st day on my ARV I made my mind to work to prevent any other young people from dying of this preventable disease I started to make my work more sustainable by using online digital and social media for advocacy of HIV/AIDS among young people. I’m writing blogs and starting conversations among young groups as it may prevent a death in future as close as 3 feet to me.

    The original article was posted on Live Now Togteher campaign page

    Read the blog on LiveNowTogther.com here

    ALI with Art (blog)

  • I AM NOT MORE SHY TO TELL AND SPEAK ABOUT MY HIV STATUS AND JOURNEY

    I AM NOT MORE SHY TO TELL AND SPEAK ABOUT MY HIV STATUS AND JOURNEY

    Hi, I’m Ali Raza Khan 27 years old young boy from Pakistan. I am from PLHIV community and I’m not shied to tell that however It wasn’t always like that.

    There were bad times when I was not well mentally and physically. I remember that it was a kind of normal thing for my family to take me to emergency because of high fever even after getting medications. Sometimes it disappears for few days and sometimes for months. It was not just the fever there were also other complications like bloody diarrhea. I was afraid of eating or going to toilet as medications were not helping for long.

    I remember the day I was diagnosed HIV. I wasn’t afraid of it at start until I witnessed a 15-year-old young boy dying of AIDS in HIV/AIDS department of the hospital during my first visit to get ARVS. His body was dark, dried and lean on a bench 3 feet to where I was sitting. I did not want my life to end up like that nor the lives of other young people. The death of this boy can be prevented if diagnosed and treated on time with support of community.

    I came to know after 4 months that my ARV formula wasn’t working because of high viral load in my reports. These were the days when I told about my status to my close ones. Unlike my expectations they were supportive. Here in my city it takes almost a month to get viral load results as ART center send blood sample to capital city and reports comes back after 15 to 30 days. I don’t like these delays not only for my own but also for other PLHIV for whom this time can be critical. I still have marks of blisters I got on my body due to high viral load and reaction of my 2nd ARV formula which I have to leave after a week. This was the time I needed support from my family and friends and so I got unlike other PLHIV people which beg for support on online support group. Becoming part of online PLHIV community groups gave me deep insight of how difficult it is for PLHIV especially young people to get support. I tried my best to support other PLHIV by talking to them using online platforms.

    Most people believe that people living with HIV just have to take one tablet a day but that’s not true as I have to take six tablets a day 3 in morning and 3 In evening. This is 3rd ARV formula. I have been taking this for almost 9 months. It seems to be working as I have gained my lost weight and there are no more complications. However, I’m not sure because viral load test report can prove that but in this COVID-19 situation ART center delayed my viral load test which they were supposed to take after six months.

    I had worked part time as SRHR young advocate before knowing my status but devoted my full time and changed my field of work after knowing my status. As my previous workplace didn’t had friendly environment for people with special needs. Now I’m working for HIV/AIDS prevention in my town of Multan. I’m working in a community-based organization openly as PLHIV to contribute my part to stop new HIV cases among young people. I openly talk about HIV and AIDS and how we can end discrimination and stigma associated with PLHIV on which many SRHR activists also feel shied to talk. I believe my open discussion can help directly or indirectly to prevent a new HIV case. As the 1st day on my ARV I made my mind to work to prevent any other young people die of this preventable disease I started to make my work more sustainable by using online digital and social media for advocacy of HIV/AIDS among young people. I’m writing blogs and starting conversations among young groups as it may can prevent a death in future as close as 3 feet to me.

  • Youth Activism on World AIDS Day 2016 : Ali Raza Khan’s Message of Awareness

    Youth Activism on World AIDS Day 2016 : Ali Raza Khan’s Message of Awareness

    On World AIDS Day 2016, the Hamqadam Youth Participation for Empowerment (HYPE) team in Multan came together to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS. With the support of Rutgers WPF Pakistan, this passionate group of young activists aimed to educate their community and combat the stigma associated with HIV. Among them was Ali Raza Khan, a 24-year-old youth activist and member of the Rutgers ASK youth alliance. Holding a playcard with a powerful message, Ali emphasized the importance of safe sex practices and the use of condoms for a healthy life.

    • The HYPE Multan team organized a special event on World AIDS Day to engage the local community.
    • Their goal was to spread awareness about HIV prevention, encourage safe practices, and challenge misconceptions.
    • Ali Raza Khan, a dedicated youth activist, played a central role in the event.
    • As a member of the Rutgers ASK youth alliance, he understood the urgency of addressing HIV-related issues.
    • The Playcard Message: “AIDS is no joke, wrap before you poke”
    • Ali held a playcard with this impactful message.
    • The phrase cleverly combined humor with a serious reminder: practicing safe sex is essential to prevent HIV transmission.
    • By advocating for condom use, Ali aimed to empower individuals to make informed choices.
      • The entire team participated actively, each holding their own playcard.
      • Their messages included:
        • “Spread the knowledge, not the virus”: Encouraging education and awareness.
        • “Be aware, take care”: Highlighting the importance of self-care and health.
        • “People with HIV positive are still stigmatized”: Addressing the harmful stereotypes surrounding HIV.
        • “Let’s aid each other to combat AIDS”: Promoting solidarity and support.
        • Through their creative and eye-catching playcards, the HYPE Multan team captured attention.
        • Passersby, community members, and social media audiences took notice and engaged in conversations.
        • Ali’s message resonated with many, emphasizing that safe sex practices are not only responsible but also contribute to overall well-being.

    Ali Raza Khan and the HYPE Multan team demonstrated the power of youth activism on World AIDS Day 2016. By boldly addressing HIV prevention and stigma, they paved the way for open dialogue and positive change. Their playcards served as visual reminders that small actions—like using condoms—can make a significant difference in the fight against AIDS. 🌟🔴🌍