Project
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.
Using training and mentorship from AVAC Fellow Alumni and other seasoned advocates to prepare the next generation of HIV prevention advocates.
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.
Several key successes emerged from the Advocacy Navigators initiative. The program’s structured curriculum and user-friendly templates provided an effective foundation that enabled participants to engage meaningfully with their communities while developing essential skills in advocacy, networking, and project management. The financial support proved instrumental in bringing projects to life, covering critical expenses such as transportation, printing, and event logistics that allowed Navigators to gain hands-on implementation experience.
Beyond the practical elements, the program fostered a strong sense of purpose and impact among participants, who felt they were making meaningful contributions to advancing HIV prevention and sexual and reproductive health rights in their communities. The combination of mentorship opportunities and networking connections further enriched the experience, creating a comprehensive platform that not only equipped Navigators with valuable skills but also empowered them to drive real change in their advocacy work.
📣 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 [email protected].
This initiative is designed for new and emerging advocates looking to jumpstart or strengthen their HIV prevention advocacy.
In collaboration with their mentors, participants, will:
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.
Zambia
Kenya
Zimbabwe
Malawi
Zimbabwe
Tanzania
Sharing real-life stories from people living with HIV made my advocacy efforts more impactful and helped break harmful stigmas.
Working closely with traditional leaders allowed us to integrate sexual and reproductive health conversations into cultural dialogues, making our impact more sustainable.
Bringing mobile sexual and reproductive health services to remote areas showed me how much need there is—and how much change we can drive with the right resources.
Read more about past AVAC Advocacy Fellows and the work they’ve done.
factsheet
The Advocacy Navigator program is open to any individual interested in HIV prevention advocacy currently residing in Southern or Eastern Africa. This is a six month program with a three to four hour weekly time commitment. AVAC will provide online coursework in HIV prevention and advocacy and match participants with a mentor. Participants will receive a small project grant. More information at www.avac.org/navigator.
factsheet
The Advocacy Navigator program is open to any AVAC Alumni interested in serving as a mentor to emerging HIV prevention advocates currently residing in Southern or Eastern Africa. This is a six month program in HIV prevention advocacy. The mentor time commitment should be approximately one to two hours per week with the Navigator program participant.
factsheet
The Advocacy Navigator is an AVAC initiative combining training and mentorship to young and emerging advocates in the field of HIV prevention advocacy. Mentors will serve as advisors to the Navigators, supporting them as they go through their coursework and while they design and implement their Community Advocacy Project.
