Celebrating unsung heroes: Gilead partners to shine a light on stigma and inequity

The National Association of People with HIV Australia (NAPWHA) and Gilead Sciences Australia have announced the recipients of the 2024 Community Champions Awards. This year, five remarkable individuals have been honoured for their advocacy, support, and dedication to improving the lives of people living with HIV.

The Community Champions program – now in its fourth year – was created by NAPWHA and Gilead to recognise the unsung heroes working tirelessly to reduce stigma, advocate for the needs of their communities, and guide individuals through the complexities of the healthcare system, HIV prevention, and treatment.

As World AIDS Day approaches on 1 December, NAPWHA President Scott Harlum shared his thoughts on the significance of the awards.

“As an organisation, NAPWHA is constantly looking to our communities to exemplify our vision: namely a world where people with HIV live their lives to their full potential, in good health and free from discrimination. Often this vision seems distant and almost impossible.

“But at this time of year, when we hear about so many people who have made it their life’s work, when we are touched by their stories and see the impact they have made… this vision becomes closer to reality,” Harlum said.

Jennifer Hoy, the Ally Community Champion, has over 35 years of experience in HIV research. She played a pivotal role in the establishment of The Alfred Hospital’s HIV Clinical Research Unit in 1996 and was appointed the inaugural Professor Director of HIV Medicine at The Alfred and Monash University in 2008.

Reflecting on her work, Hoy said, “When I started at the beginning of the pandemic, we had no treatment and little hope. Today, thanks to research, people with HIV can lead fulfilling lives, and I’m grateful to have played a part in that progress.”

Wayne Hornsby, the Enduring Community Champion, has dedicated his life to advocating for heterosexual men living with HIV.

“Long-term survivors need support now more than ever. We’re ageing, facing new health challenges, and sometimes feel left behind in the narrative. This is a huge priority for me,” Hornsby stated.

Sonya Weith, the First Nations Community Champion, is recognised for her work in supporting people living with HIV to overcome stigma and achieve self-acceptance.

“It’s my joy to give a voice to the voiceless and support people to transform, to become empowered and know their absolute potential regardless of any diagnosis,” Weith said.

Michelle Skehan, Senior Director of Public Affairs at Gilead Sciences Australia and New Zealand, expressed her gratitude for the partnership with NAPWHA.

“Working with NAPWHA on the Community Champions program is truly rewarding. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the exceptional efforts of individuals while raising awareness of the ongoing challenges faced by people living with HIV.

“Through the many nominations received this year and across the last four years, we have seen how personal dedication can lead to meaningful change, and we are delighted to be able to amplify these often life-changing contributions.”

Melania Mugamu, the Migrant Community Champion, was recognised for her courage in using her own story to empower others living with HIV.

“I know what it’s like to feel alone and afraid. I became an advocate because no one should face this journey without hope, without someone by their side,” Mugamu said.

Billy Suyapmo, the Young Community Champion, has been an advocate for the empowerment of people living with HIV, offering support through education, employment assistance, and outreach.

“I’m here to support people living with HIV to advance their own quality of life. Everyone deserves to be seen, to be themselves, and to be understood,” Suyapmo remarked.

Skehan concluded, “For over 35 years, Gilead Sciences has collaborated with healthcare professionals, academic institutions, community organisations, and advocates to improve outcomes for people living with HIV. We remain committed to working together with communities toward a future free from HIV stigma and inequity.”

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