2016 AIDS conference South Africa

My name is Nestor Josue Rogel. I was born HIV positive in Compton, California, a city known for its underprivileged youth and gang violence. It was not a place where one would thrive, unless you had the will to live a better life. I am still in disbelief that I have made it this far. It is my will to live, and passion for activism that has carried me.

I recently received a once in a lifetime partial scholarship to attend the 2016 International AIDS Conference in Durban, the largest conference on any global health or development issues in the world. Never in my young life did I ever imagine that I would have the opportunity have an impact on a global scale, as well as acquire the necessary tools to make a difference in the world. However, I lack the funds to make this dream a reality. It is my belief in people’s kindness and commitment to making the world a better place that keeps my dream alive. It is through your kind donation that you will help me in perusing the dream of one day living in an AIDS free generation.

All funds raised will be used for the flight, accommodations and other cost associated with travel. I firmly believe in the mission and opportunity that this conference brings not only to me, but to the millions of people affected by this epidemic.

In addition I will be given the unique chance to give a panel discussion about the documentary "We're still here" about the lives and struggles of people born with HIV, to an international audience.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=spNGh_Is3_w



This opportunity will help me further grow as an HIV activist, and on a personal level. I do not have much in this world to offer, but my eternal gratitude. This is a matter of responsibility for me. "Your rights aren’t given, they are earned"-Junta 21