LS&Co. Unzipped
Jun 19 2012
Ginan's Goal - Beating HIV/AIDS
Editor’s note: Levi Strauss & Co. Pioneer Award honors today’s pioneers in nonprofit organizations around the world. It recognizes the hard work and pioneering efforts of individuals working for or with these nonprofits. Our hope is that calling attention to the work of today’s pioneers will inspire others to join their march forward. We recently presented a Pioneer Award to Ginan Koesmayadi of Rumah Cemara, an organization dedicated to fighting the stigma around HIV/AIDS in Indonesia.
If you tested HIV positive, would you tell the world about it?
Twelve years ago, Ginan Koesmayadi did.
Despite an unyielding social stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, Ginan Koesmayadi disclosed his HIV status on national television.
He did so in a bid to “break the ice” – the stigma – around HIV/AIDS in Indonesia. Since then, Ginan has brought the issue of HIV/AIDS to the forefront of public policy and public health in the country through his organization Rumah Cemara.
Ginan has persistently fought for people living with HIV/AIDS in Indonesia and taken on some of the biggest issues our society faces: stigma, discrimination and poverty of the people living with HIV/AIDS as well as their access to free treatment.
His incredible journey and accomplishments are why we have presented him with a Pioneer Award.
In doing so, we’re also acknowledging Rumah Cemara’s successful Football for Social Change Program, which brings together soccer players recruited by Rumah Cemara to play with community teams – without telling community teams that Rumah Cemara players are HIV positive. Post-game discussions enable Rumah Cemara to educate the community about HIV/AIDS and available services
When I met Ginan last week, his commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS through education really resonated with me. I come away from the award ceremonyfeeling a strong sense of pride. I find great meaning in that we, as a pioneer tackling HIV/AIDS, are lending a helping hand to a fellow pioneer working towards a common goal – a world free of stigma of HIV/AIDS.
It’s worth noting that Rumah Cemara conducts HIV/AIDS workplace trainings for Levi Strauss & Co. As an employee, I am proud to work for a company that supports pioneers in my community like Ginan.
I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Ginan and Rumah Cemara – and hope pioneers like him continue to be an inspiration for all of us to create change in our communities.
Posted By: Glen Hanafiah, Marketing Manager, Levi Strauss Indonesia |
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Sumesh Wadhwa (not verified) - Jun 21 2012
It is worth noting that 12 years back, Indonesia was facing a major crisis and the awareness of HIV/AIDS was limited. During the era of crisis where the employment rate was at its ever low and it was a challenge to earn the daily meals, Ginan rose up to fight for the cause of HIV/AIDS. Truly a Pioneer!
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