Find out more about the award recipient

AKTA is a nonprofit organization based in Shinjuku Ni-chome, Tokyo, one of Asia’s largest gay districts. Established as a certified NPO in 2012, it evolved from a community group active since 2003 that worked to create safe spaces and promote HIV prevention through peer-led outreach and education among gay and bisexual men.

AKTA operates a community center providing sexual health information and support, particularly around HIV/AIDS prevention and care. It works closely with people living with HIV and those at risk, developing community-based prevention and support programs through collaboration with local partners.

In addition to outreach projects, consultation services, and public awareness campaigns, AKTA participates in government-commissioned research and public health initiatives on HIV, sexual health, and LGBTQ+ wellbeing. Guided by the belief that everyone shares responsibility for HIV awareness and stigma reduction, the organization engages in education, research, and digital health projects to enhance access and support for sexual minorities in Japan.

Located in central Tokyo, AKTA continues to serve as a vital hub for HIV/AIDS advocacy and community health services. Its director as of 2025 is Kota Iwahashi.

What one achievement your organisation has accomplished that you’re most proud of? Why?

One of AKTA’s proudest achievements is promoting early HIV diagnosis in Japan, where testing uptake has been low. AKTA collaborated with national and local governments to improve public testing facilities to be more accessible and welcoming to sexual minorities and other key populations. It also pioneered a community-led postal HIV testing project using community centers, which greatly expanded testing uptake. This successful model spread nationwide, leading to Japan’s government issuing official guidelines in 2025 allowing postal testing as part of public health services. This effort significantly increased testing rates and early diagnosis, helping to curb HIV transmission and strengthen community health.

What do you find most challenging about your organisation’s work? Why?

A key challenge for AKTA is overcoming societal indifference toward LGBTQ health issues. Despite progress, many in Japan remain unaware or unconcerned about the unique health disparities faced by sexual minorities. This lack of social attention exacerbates stigma, discourages HIV testing and care, and limits resource allocation. Combined with persistent discrimination and a complex healthcare system, these factors create barriers to effective prevention and treatment. AKTA continuously strives to raise awareness, educate both the public and healthcare providers, and advocate for inclusive policies and stronger community partnerships to improve LGBTQ health outcomes and equity across Japan.

What do you do to help your staff recharge their battery?

AKTA holds monthly in-person staff meetings where serious discussions are balanced with casual chats over snacks to boost morale. Since beginning its activities in 2003, the organization has prioritized good governance and compliance to create a safe, transparent, and trusting work environment. This year, AKTA is focusing on strengthening its organizational culture, preparing to raise staff wages, and improving internal systems that promote mutual respect, psychological safety, and collaboration. These initiatives ensure that all employees feel comfortable, valued, and motivated to sustain their vital work in HIV prevention, LGBTQ+ health promotion, and building an inclusive workplace community.

What is your ask of your government?

PrEP was finally approved in Japan last year, but significant regional and economic disparities in access persist. We urge the government to take concrete action to correct these inequities. Japan must formally integrate community-led HIV prevention strategies into national policy with sustainable funding. Key populations, including transgender people and foreign residents, must be explicitly recognized and supported. Additionally, the government should strengthen efforts to expand early HIV testing access and reduce stigma by improving the inclusivity of public testing facilities. Together, these measures will advance equitable access to HIV prevention and care, reduce new infections, and help Japan end the AIDS epidemic.

You have been nominated for the Community Organisation category. What was your reaction and please tell us why?

As community-based organization (CBO) activities remain little known in Japan, this nomination is a valuable opportunity to expand our network and raise awareness. Being acknowledged motivates our team and affirms community-led efforts in HIV prevention and LGBTQ+ health. Through this recognition, we aim to build stronger partnerships with other organizations, local governments, and communities, amplifying our collective impact. It also highlights the importance of equitable health access for key populations, including transgender people and foreign nationals. This platform will accelerate our mission and help secure sustainable resources to continue advancing inclusive and community-driven health initiatives nationwide.

Hopeful message for Asia Pacific communities

UNAIDS is currently facing a severe funding and organizational crisis, even more critical than ever. When AKTA served as the local chair for APACC in Tokyo this June, we witnessed firsthand the importance of global solidarity in addressing shared challenges. As a Japanese community-based organization, we have been actively advocating to the Japanese government for the 8th replenishment of the Global Fund. Now, more than ever, sustainable funding, stronger international cooperation, and the inclusion of community voices are essential to safeguard the future of the HIV/AIDS response and ensure continued progress toward ending the epidemic worldwide.

Anything else you would like to share? 

Ongoing partnerships across sectors—government, civil society, academia, and the private sector—are vital to foster innovation and sustainability in the HIV/AIDS response. We also strongly believe in deepening regional solidarity across the Asia-Pacific region to collectively address the epidemic’s persistent challenges. By expanding collaboration and sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices, we can further strengthen community-led approaches and ensure no key populations are left behind. Together, this united regional effort will accelerate progress toward ending AIDS, advance equitable access to HIV prevention and care, and build resilient and inclusive health systems that serve every community.

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