Project AIDS Aware helps people living with HIV in Nigeria
By Princewill Onyekah, Rotaract Club of Medilag Golden, Lagos State, Nigeria
As a member of Rotaract, I’ve had the opportunity to make meaningful impacts in my community. I applied to join my club when I was entering medical school in 2018.
One of the first things I learned as a Rotaractor was The Four-Way Test, which is an integral part of Rotary. This test involves evaluating the things we say or do based on four criteria: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? By adhering to these principles, Rotaractors strive to make ethical and responsible decisions that positively impact their communities.
During my time as project chair, I was responsible for organizing and overseeing community service projects. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we were able to carry out meaningful projects that made a difference in our community.
Later, I was elected club president. This leadership position allowed me to take on new challenges and responsibilities, continuing to make a positive impact in my community through service to humanity. Our club was named the best institutional club in the district.
Currently, I serve as the Rotaract District 9110 Medical Director and chair a committee focused on the Disease Prevention and Treatment area of focus. Our medical team organized Project AIDS Aware, which aimed to encourage young students in tertiary institutions to get tested for HIV. We partnered with organizations like DKT International and Peace First and worked with other Rotaract clubs in the district to carry out this project.
We distributed 1,000 HIV self-testing kits and gave souvenirs to those who received the kits to encourage others to get tested privately. We also carried out a red ribbon campaign to show solidarity with people living with HIV and to raise awareness about the inequality facing adolescents and young people living with HIV.
My experience as a Rotaractor has been rewarding and meaningful. I’ve found a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to making a positive impact and serving others. Being in Rotaract has allowed me to make a difference in my community and grow personally and professionally. We are people of action. If you’d like to experience this too, join us.
https://blog.rotary.org/2023/02/14/finding-purpose-in-rotaract/