Collette Kongai shares her inspiring journey of overcoming rejection and bullying after being born HIV-positive. Supported by her loving single mother, she transformed her pain into strength, eventually advocating for others and embracing her uniqueness. Love and resilience defined her path to success.

At 12, I learned my HIV status and faced stigma and discrimination. In 2022, I auditioned for Uganda's Network of Young People Living with HIV/AIDS (UNYPA) and became Miss Y+ 1st Runner Up. This empowered me to become a role model, advocate for awareness, and promote positive living among young people living with HIV. My goal is to reduce new infections and empower others in the community. Thank you, UNYPA, for helping me find my voice and confidence!

Born in August 2000 in Kasese with HIV, Micheal faced immense challenges after losing his father at four and living on the streets for four years. After being adopted and starting ART at 11, he excelled in school despite stigma. In 2019, he became the National Winner of UNYPA, transforming his life. Now a national youth representative, he leads the Kasese Network of Young People Living with HIV, impacting lives and advocating for change. Micheal has dined with prominent leaders and continues to inspire others, proving that anyone can rise from adversity.

Before joining the Y+ Beauty Pageant, Emojel was a dedicated student pursuing a bachelor's degree in Social Work. He faced significant stigma and discrimination as a young person living with HIV, often struggling with rejection and bullying. His advocacy began at university, volunteering with organizations like YAPS and Uganda Cares. Winning the Y+ Beauty Pageant transformed his life, providing him with a powerful platform to fight stigma and inspire others. Emojel has connected with high-profile advocates and participated in impactful conferences, committed to ending AIDS by 2030. He emphasizes the importance of empowering youth and believes in the capacity of young people to lead change.

"Joining the Y+ Beauty Pageant at 20 transformed Hillary’s life. Initially a peer educator, she overcame stigma related to her HIV status and became an advocate. Winning the pageant opened doors for leadership roles, empowering her to support young people living with HIV"

"Nawanyaga Gloria, born with HIV, faced immense stigma and struggles throughout her life. Despite early challenges, she became an advocate for young people living with HIV, inspiring others through leadership roles and achievements, eventually graduating as a lawyer committed to fighting for human rights."