With the approval of the composition of the NGO delegation for the 2024 term, the Programme Coordinating Board (PCB) of UNAIDS ushered in a significant moment today. Alongside the election of Kenya as the Chair, Brazil as the Vice-Chair, and the Netherlands as the Rapporteur for the period spanning from 1 January to 31 December 2024, the PCB introduced two new NGO delegates poised to infuse fresh perspectives and drive impactful change.
The NGO Delegation warmly welcomes Shamin Mohamed Jr., the representative for LetsStopAIDS, and Fionnuala Murphy, Head of Global Advocacy at Frontline AIDS, as the two incoming delegates for Europe and North America, respectively.
Shamin Mohamed Jr.: Empowering Youth Leadership in the HIV Response
Shamin Mohamed Jr., an eminent activist renowned for his substantial contributions to youth involvement in the global HIV response, founded LetsStopAIDS at the age of 15. This youth-driven Canadian charity, now the country’s largest Youth-HIV organization, operates in over 72 countries. Shamin’s leadership has expanded LetsStopAIDS’ reach, promoting comprehensive sexual health education and empowerment among youth aged 15 to 29.
Apart from his activism, Shamin is an accomplished entrepreneur and co-founder of DECIEM, a multinational skincare company. His diverse background in health sciences and business offers a unique perspective on policy development and program implementation, establishing him as a proven change-maker and thought leader.
Fionnuala Murphy: Championing Advocacy for HIV, Human Rights, and Gender Justice
Fionnuala Murphy, with two decades of experience in campaigns and advocacy on HIV, human rights, and gender justice, brings her expertise as the Head of Global Advocacy at Frontline AIDS. Her work has yielded significant wins: inequitable access to HIV medicines, COVID-19 technologies, and commitments to harm reduction.
Growing up in Northern Ireland amidst conflict and colonialism, Fionnuala draws upon her personal experiences to shape her advocacy approaches. Her educational background in Law and Journalism enhances her ability to foster impactful partnerships and advocate for marginalized communities.
Both LetsStopAIDS and Frontline AIDS play pivotal roles in the global HIV response, with LetsStopAIDS focusing on youth leadership and awareness while Frontline AIDS champions community-based solutions and human rights advocacy.
The NGO Delegation expresses gratitude to departing delegates Christian Hui and Erika Castellanos for their invaluable contributions. As the new term commences, these fresh appointments promise a continued commitment to advancing the global fight against HIV/AIDS.