Ibanomonde Ngema, a South African activist living with HIV, will take charge of Charlize Theron’s Instagram account on World AIDS Day today, 1 December.
This initiative, which has been announced by UNAIDS, aims to spotlight the experiences of young people living with HIV and to challenge the stigma surrounding the virus.
Amplifying voices
Ngema (21), who was born with HIV, has dedicated her life to advocacy, by focusing on breaking myths and reducing discrimination against those living with HIV.
Through the @charlizeafrica account, which currently boasts 7.6 million followers, Ngema hopes to share her powerful story and inspire change.
Theron’s commitment to the cause
Theron, a South African-born Oscar-winning actress and UN Messenger of Peace, has long fought to address systemic inequalities that disproportionately affect young women and girls.
‘Ending AIDS is within reach, but only if we dismantle harmful patterns of stigma and discrimination through protective laws, policies, and practices,’ said Theron, speaking on the initiative.
HIV’s impact on women and girls
The announcement coincided with a UNAIDS report that highlighted alarming figures: in sub-Saharan Africa, women and girls made up 62% of new HIV infections last year.
Rights violations and systemic inequities exacerbate their vulnerability to the virus even further.
‘I’ve always loved watching Charlize on the big screen and admire how she uses her influence to help others, especially in South Africa,’ said Ngema, expressing her admiration for Theron.
Theron’s platform and Ngema’s advocacy offer a unique opportunity to drive awareness and push for change in the global fight against HIV and AIDS.
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Picture: Monica Schipper / Getty Images
