Community Organisation
Honouree
CARMAH
Vietnam
CARMAH is a non-profit organization based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam with the mission is to conduct the quality and standard research, to improve the health and life quality of LGBTQI+ community through the application of effective and evidence-based health interventions. CARMAH aims to empower LGBTQI community with necessary capacity in providing health services and intervention for the community to enhance quality of care, with responsibility in thoroughly evaluating those activities for efficacy.
Our vision is to become the leading research center of, by and for LGBTQI+ community in Vietnam on sexual health, and wellbeing. For ten years, with a total of nearly 30 Research/Projects and international scientific publications in the collaboration with US Academic Institutions, APCOM/Elton John Foundation, Gilead Sciences, UNAIDS, US CDC..
CARMAH has been a pioneering research center, aiming to address the unique health challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, our work is more than data and statistics. Our research endeavors delve deep into the center of these challenges, seeking not only to understand them but also to find solutions that create positive change. Our research hasn’t just stayed on paper. It ignites policy changes, creates environments that are more inclusive, understanding, and responsive to the needs of the LGBTQI+ community.
- Our website can be found at:https://carmah-vn.org/
- and our social media fan pages as following: https://www.facebook.com/carmahvn/?locale=vi_VN
- also at: https://www.facebook.com/testsgnclinic/
What one achievement your organisation has accomplished that you’re most proud of? Why?
One of our most significant achievements that fills us with pride is our commitment to provide mental health services to the MSM community. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by this community, we have initiated a comprehensive mental health screening and enhancement program.
Notably, using a people-centered principle, we provide services in a one-stop-shop model to maximize engagement. This strategy plays a pivotal role in breaking down the barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking help.
What do you find most challenging about the organisation’s work? Why?
The most challenging aspect of CARMAH’s work is addressing social stigma experienced by MSM, which often directly and indirectly hinder healthcare delivery. That is, many MSM are reluctant to seek healthcare due to societal prejudice and/or discrimination towards their sexual preference or orientation, often resulting in delayed diagnoses and unaddressed health issues. CARMAH is committed to dismantling these barriers by promoting awareness, destigmatization, and an inclusive healthcare environment, ensuring that MSM individuals receive equitable care and support, free from judgment or discrimination.
What do you do to help your staff recharge their battery?
We prioritize staff well-being by offering flexible work arrangements, mental health support, and regular annual Retreat. Our generous leave policies, professional development opportunities, and team-building activities promote work-life balance. Recognizing achievements, setting clear expectations, and encouraging open feedback further enhance staff morale and motivation. We are committed to providing a supportive environment that helps our team recharge and thrive.
What is your ask to donors?
The donors will make contributions in key resources to our programs and initiatives, allowing strategic development and growth in key areas that would foster a long-term impact on LGBTQI+ health and well-being. For example, we are keen on developing the next generation of leaders. Partnerships remain integral to CARMAH’s approach. We are actively seeking collaboration with organizations, agencies, and experts who share our vision. By pooling resources and specialized knowledge, we can foster change with wider coverage and greater effectiveness. The road ahead may present challenges, but with steadfast support, there are no limits to what we can achieve.
You have been nominated for the Community Organisation category. What was your reaction and please, tell us why?
This year, CARMAH celebrates 10 years of founding: A DECADE OF COMMUNITY HEALTH INNOVATION. Being nominated for the Community Organization category is an incredibly humbling and exciting moment for our team at CARMAH. It reaffirms our commitment to LGBTQI+ health and well-being. This recognition serves as validation that our work is making a positive impact. It motivates us to continue our advocacy and research efforts, knowing that our dedication to the community is being acknowledged.
What is a warm/hopeful message that you would like to share with the communities in the Asia Pacific?
We at CARMAH celebrate our 10-year achievements. Founded in 2013, CARMAH has consistently demonstrated its unwavering commitment to combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic through innovative research and practice. As we gather to celebrate the APCOM Hero Award, we extend our deepest gratitude to all the heroes among us—the individuals and organizations who have paved the way for change. And here’s to a future where HIV/AIDS is but a distant memory.
At CARMAH, we believe in celebrating love, diversity, and equality every day. We believe in the power of a people-centered approach. By fostering an environment that is inclusive, understanding, and supportive where everyone deserves to be heard, validated, and respected. We believe that stigma and discrimination have no place in our society. Together, we can create a future where every individual is accepted and celebrated for who they are, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.
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