HIV HERO Honourees
Supported by our Community Partner – APN+
Ferdinand James Macam
The Philippines
Ferdinand James Macam, 32, is a part of a workgroup helping to cultivate an environment that empowers individuals; and supports the PLHIV community (HACG-HIV Awareness Campaign Group Philippines). Since being diagnosed with HIV in 2016, Ferdinand has been using his platform to share their experiences living with HIV, in order to make a difference in stopping the HIV epidemic and stigma. Additionally, Ferdinand volunteers to travel across the Philippines as a resource speaker, and as a social media moderator to raise HIV and AIDS awareness.
“I know that behind this nomination is not just about an honor but also a responsibility. This nomination means so much to me, and words are not enough to express my gratitude to the whole organization. It only shows that the hard work that I put into has been recognised and I will cherish this for the rest of my life.”
Nazarius Celsus Dorus
Malaysia
Diagnosed with HIV in 2004, Nazarius Celsus Dorus is currently one of the board members and focal point of myISEAN, a network for MSM and transgenders of Malaysia. He is also running a Facebook group called the HIV and AIDS Awareness Malaysia Group, with over 4000 members world wide. Nazarius uses their platform to help countrymen who had difficulties with their ARV overseas and in Malaysia itself through networking and partnerships.
“I was surprised because I don’t believe I would get such an honour. To be honest, I don’t have anyone that is my inspiration apart from myself. I have lived with the virus for over 16 years, so I am my own inspiration. I have lived the life that made me who I am today. As my motto is ‘Forget yesterday, it will never come again. Don’t look at the future because it does not have certainties, but live for today.”
Sriyal Nilanka
Sri Lanka
Sriyal Nilanka has been living with HIV for the past seven years and is currently living and generating awareness to fight the stigmatisation and discrimination PLHIV persons face in Sri Lanka. He is a programme officer on a GF funded regional grant in Sri Lanka. Having started working around HIV a few years ago—as a response to being harassed online—he has led a number of campaigns that initiated an online appointment booking system for an HIV test at the National STD Clinic.
“I was extremely happy to know that I was nominated for the HERO Award because to me it’s an acceptance of who I am and an acknowledgement of my work. Certainly, this surely helps amplify the work we do in Sri Lanka and help us share a piece of our experience.”
