Project

Advocacy Navigator

Preparing the next generation of HIV prevention advocates

The Advocacy Navigator program mobilizes a cohort of ambitious individuals and provides them with resources to build their knowledge, skills and confidence to meaningfully advance HIV prevention advocacy in their communities and countries. Navigators are paired with mentors, alumni of AVAC’s Advocacy Fellows program to provide support and guidance.

2024 Advocacy Navigators

Jessica Booysen

South Africa

Takunda Clement Chanetsa

Zimbabwe

Gcebile Yvette Dlamini

Eswatini

Rita Nyaguthii Gatonye

Kenya

Nawanyaga Gloria

Uganda

Madalitso Juwayeyi

Malawi

Joseph Robert Linda

Uganda

Renny Mulala

Zambia

Rumbidzai Munhanzi

Zimbabwe

Nicole Ondisa Oduya

Kenya

Sharon Ramantele

Botswana

Elizabeth Zahabu

Tanzania

Using training and mentorship from AVAC Fellow Alumni and other seasoned advocates to prepare the next generation of HIV prevention advocates.

Support for Advocates is Essential

Since 2009 with the establishment of the AVAC Advocacy Fellows program, AVAC has recognized the imperative to support HIV prevention advocates globally. They represent a global movement of seasoned veterans and passionate newcomers, who call out neglect, insist on equity, monitor commitments and identify solutions. Now the Advocacy Navigator program is leveraging the strength of this extraordinary program and its alumni community to expand and strengthen the network and continue to support and engage advocates for the long-term.

The Advocacy Navigator combines training and mentorship to young and emerging advocates in the field of HIV prevention advocacy. The program will mobilize a cohort of ambitious individuals and provide them with resources to build their knowledge, skills and confidence to meaningfully advance HIV prevention advocacy in their communities and countries. The program includes online coursework, personalized mentorship, and opportunities to directly apply learning through a community advocacy project. The program begins with three months of coursework and project development, followed by three months when advocates implement their plans. 

Applications

📣 AVAC is not currently accepting applications for our Navigator program.

For reference, application materials are available here. The recording of an informational webinar is also available. Any additional questions may be directed to Hannah Nelson at hnelson@avac.org.

Who The Program Is For

This initiative is designed for new and emerging advocates looking to jumpstart or strengthen their HIV prevention advocacy.

What The Program Entails

  • Curated coursework
  • Personalized mentorship
  • Intentional networking
  • Experiential learning

How The Program Works

In collaboration with their mentors, participants, will:

  • Connect with AVAC’s global network
  • Bolster existing HIV prevention campaigns
  • Fuel new advocacy efforts

The first three months include structured, self-paced coursework, followed by a Community Advocacy Project for the following three months. The focus of the project is decided by the participants in consultation with their mentors in order to match their interests with community needs.

Current Mentors

Chilufya Hampongo

Zambia

Simon K’Ondiek

Kenya

Cleopatra Makura

Zimbabwe

Eric Mcheka

Malawi

Anna Miti

Zimbabwe

Dr. Lilian Benjamin Mwakyosi

Tanzania

In the Words of our Navigator Alumni Network

Here are just a few of our notable alumni:

The program has profoundly reshaped my perspective on advocacy and my role as an agent of change. I’ve come to understand that advocacy transcends mere participation in meetings or visits. It entails active engagement with the community in decision-making processes, ensuring their full representation.

Fortune Erimma
2023 Advocacy Navigator (Nigeria)

It’s been eye-opening to witness how empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills to advocate for their rights and educate their peers can be a catalyst for change.

Doreen Moraa Moracha
Advocacy Navigator 2023 (Kenya)

Before the programme, despite working in creating change for adolescents and young people, I did not have the advocacy skills to do more. With the programme and implementation of the CAP, I not only have the skills but also the confidence to use my position to influence change.”

Rhoda Msiska
2023 Advocacy Navigator (Zambia)


Read more about past AVAC Advocacy Fellows and the work they’ve done.

Contact

Interested in joining the next group of Navigators or want to hear more about the project? Contact Hannah Nelson at hnelson@avac.org.