THE DIRECTOR’S MOTIVATION
How and when did you first start working with HIV/AIDS education and specifically?
Yolanda: I started working with HIV education in 2005 in a company where we had to set up a training component. Within that training component, I had to introduce HIV awareness. This is when I discovered where my passion is and I fell in love with HIV education. I soon extended my services to other organizations.
What have you learned personally during your time with HIV/AIDS education?
Yolanda: I have learned that through this intervention a platform for behavioral change and self discovery has been created to the respective beneficiaries. I have also learned that through knowledge, motivation and perseverance change is possible. My personal growth and development have moved to a higher level in a very short space of time.
What do you enjoy particularly about your work?
Yolanda: I really enjoy the fact that I am having a positive impact on people’s lives. My best moments are when beneficiaries realize what HIV does to our bodies, how it is transmitted and then they get motivated to get tested and also start to realize the importance of protecting their bodies. It’s also wonderful to be working with different people on a daily basis.
What makes your work special?
Yolanda: I would say the fact that it is about saving lives and encouraging self-responsibility. It focuses on various aspects that relate to a person and also focuses on the relationship between the body and HIV. The structure and approach of learning is very exciting. But really it is the passionate, dedicated and supportive team. It would not be possible to go out there and do my best had it not been for the unity of team.
Tell us a bit about the challenges that different communities in South Africa in general, but also specifically with regard to HIV & Aids education.
Yolanda: Communities are currently packed with women and children that have experienced some form of sexual abuse. There are members of the community that are aware and at times it happens that these groups of people do not get any assistance. Teenage pregnancy is another challenge faced by our communities. We also find that in certain areas, perhaps because of cultural beliefs, there is resistance to HIV education. This prevents the learners from sharing knowledge about HIV with their families.
