Media Release

Bengaluru, Apr 6: A historic milestone in the community-led public health movement was reached as the Ashirvad Centre hosted a three-day youth leadership enrichment programme. The event served as a powerful demonstration of community peer-led monitoring, transforming youth living with HIV from participants into the advocates and changemakers of tomorrow.

The initiative was organized by the Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS), Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with the Karnataka Network for People Living with HIV/AIDS (KNP+). The programme received additional support from the Centre for Social Concern Ashirwad, Dhayabhavan, Summanhalli Society, and the Swamy Vivekananda Youth Movement.

A collective movement for change

From March 9 to 11, young leaders from across all 30 districts of Karnataka gathered at the Jesuit-run Ashirvad centre in Bengaluru. The programme focused on a people-driven revolution in health, where youth voices directly shaped the dialogue and action plans.

Participants explored critical challenges through the lens of lived experience, including:

HIV awareness and treatment adherence.

Combating stigma and gender inequality.

Human rights and legal literacy under the HIV Prevention and Control Act, 2017.

Empowerment and self-reflection

The programme emphasized personal growth alongside technical skills. Fr Joyson Vas SJ, a psychotherapist, led participants through a deep self-exploration session titled ‘Nanu Yaru?’ (Who am I?), encouraging honesty regarding personal strengths and struggles.

One of the most resonant moments of the event featured Rashmi, who shared her journey of resilience in overcoming family struggles and mental health challenges to become self-reliant. Her story served as a catalyst for hope, urging youth to challenge discrimination and promote dignity for all, including the LGBTQAI community.

Commitment to the future

The valedictory ceremony was chaired by Padma Basavanthappa, IAS, project director of KSAPS. Addressing the young leaders, she stated, “You are the strength of the ministry. We will fight for ourselves and for the oppressed together for the better and healthy government that the Government of Karnataka and we envisioned.”

Following the address, youth leaders took a solemn ‘Pramana Vachan’ (Oath) to serve their communities with compassion. The ceremony also honored outstanding youth for their selfless service during the COVID-19 pandemic.