HIV AIDS charity ball hopes to reach out to Coventry's black African community - The Coventry Observer

HIV AIDS charity ball hopes to reach out to Coventry's black African community

Coventry Editorial 1st Dec, 2016   0

AN HIV-positive pastor will bravely speak of her experiences living with the disease at a charity event in Coventry.

Pastor Elizabeth Kalonga, who grew up in Malawi, will speak at The Champions of Change Ball about the stigma she has faced from both black African and faith communities for living as a church minister with HIV.

The event, organised by the leading HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust, hopes to reach out to Coventry’s black African communities to show that the fight against the disease is not over.

Gospel singer Sharon Dee will be performing and all attendees are being encourage to wear a red ribbon so show their support for the charity.




Clara Chindodo, Champions of Change project coordinator at Terrence Higgins Trust, said: “This World AIDS Day 2016, we’re still fighting, still caring and still wearing our red ribbon with pride.

“We won’t forget, we won’t give up, because it’s not over yet – but with your help, it could be.


“We’re hosting the ball to enjoy great food and entertainment with Coventry’s African communities and to wear our red ribbons in unity.

“Together we can end HIV transmission, improve sexual health and empower people to live well with HIV.”

Pastor Elizabeth Kalonga will speak at the event about the stigma she has faced for living as a church minister with HIV. s

Pastor Elizabeth Kalonga will speak at the event about the stigma she has faced for living as a church minister with HIV. s

The Champions of Change project works with the city’s black African residents to showcase ‘champions’ from within their communities who address stigma and prejudice around HIV to encourage others to get tested and know their status.

The Champions of Change Ball is on Saturday, December 10 at 7pm.

Tickets are free from www.tht.org.uk/wearitdinner and include a three-course meal, music and dancing.

Terrence Higgins Trust in Coventry is based at Coventry Point and provides support, information and advice services for those living with HIV and affected by HIV or poor sexual health.

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