In this episode, our host, Selma Ndasilohenda Iyambo, sits down with Tuwilika Elias, a trailblazing public policy analyst, HIV and gender-based violence advocate, survivor, and Fulbright alumna. In commemoration of World AIDS Day, Tuwilika shares her journey of resilience and triumph as a young woman living with HIV.

Tuwilika recounts the moment she thought her dreams and life had ended after being diagnosed with HIV in high school. She takes us through her experience of denial, refusing medication, eventually starting treatment, and the profound impact it had on her mental health. She also details how she began her advocacy journey to support others facing similar challenges and celebrates her personal and professional milestones.

Her story is one of hope and empowerment. Together, they explore common misconceptions about HIV, strategies for building supportive communities, and advice for living a fulfilling life beyond an HIV diagnosis or experiences of abuse. Tuwilika highlights the importance of disclosing one’s status to trusted friends and loved ones to build a support system—something she wishes she had in her early years as she struggled to navigate societal expectations and personal fears alone.

Tune in for an eye-opening and uplifting conversation that illuminates what it means to live a life filled with purpose, love, and fulfillment despite the challenges.