Patience G. Byakatonda

Speaking at today’s launch, Miss Mary Bobman of the US Embassy said the United States Government remains committed to supporting high-quality health care systems in both the public and private sectors. She noted that the Government of Uganda is in the lead, together with local organisations. The role of the United States is to continue supporting that leadership and to ensure that the voices of young people and communities are heard. #YPlusPageant26 #WhenYouthLead #INTER4SUSTAIN

Speaking at today’s launch, Dr. Dan Byamukama described the Y+ Beauty Pageant as an opportunity for young people living with HIV to gain knowledge about HIV, treatment, and sexual and reproductive health. He noted that many people see only the catwalk and miss the real purpose. The pageant gives participants the chance to learn about reproductive health and rights, mental wellbeing, and how to support others. They then take these skills back to their communities. #YPlusPageant26 #WhenYouthLead #INTER4SUSTAIN

Dr. Byamukama also addressed a misunderstanding that has sometimes surrounded the initiative: the claim that awards given to winners living with HIV might encourage others to contract the virus in order to receive recognition. He called this argument far-fetched and said no responsible public health programme would encourage HIV infection. The pageant recognises leadership, courage, knowledge, advocacy, and service among young people who are already living with HIV. The award honours the person and their contribution. It does not reward infection. #YPlusPageant26 #WhenYouthLead