From poetry to presidents:Shifting Perceptions of HIV
Through Activism and Artistry

Originally published November 11, 2023 | 1-MINUTE read

Kayla Quimbley is a poet with a powerful perspective—she was born with HIV. Now, as the youngest member of the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS, she has become a fierce advocate for people who acquired HIV through vertical transmission (passed from mother to child). Kayla spoke on her lived experience in a performance during the Gilead plenary session at USCHA 2023. Kayla is shifting perspectives, challenging the narratives that surround HIV, and showing people what it means to live and thrive with HIV through her artistry. Check out her performance in the video above and learn more about her personal story here to discover how her strength and courage helped her become a champion of HIV advocacy.

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