By Enalla Mnyenyembe
Global Network of Young People Living with HIV (Y+Network) has selected 21 year old Tanaka Chirombo to be part of the Y+ Global board members.
Global Network of Young People Living with HIV every year selects young people into its board of members and Chirombo is the first Malawian to be selected and will be representing Eastern and Southern Africa.
In an interview Monday, Chirombo, a second year student studying Public Health at University of Livingstonia (UNILIA), said he is honoured to be the first Malawian to be part of the Y+Global board members.
“I am honoured as I will be representing a great multitude of young people living with HIV and AIDS who actually represent most areas in the world affected by the pandemic,” said Chirombo.
Chirombo, who was also selected Global Youth Champion on HIV in 2018, said his area of focus will be meaningful engagements where young people living with HIV are equipped with adequate knowledge about HIV and AIDS.
“By doing that, it will allow to perfectly position experiences and expertise of young people living with HIV at the heart of the global AIDS response and ensuring that young people with HIV play a central role in ending the pandemic by 2030,” he said.
Tanaka advised his fellow youth to step up efforts in attaining the dreams, saying everyone has brighter imaginations but it only takes the brave to make them a reality.
On her part, National Youth Council of Malawi (NYCOM) Communications Officer, Kate Kujaliwa, said the council is delighted that Tanaka has been selected to such a noble position on an international platform.
“As NYCOM, we are glad that Tanaka, a representative from Youth and Society has been recognised on a bigger platform and already understands the role of collaboration which we encourage young people to do,” Kujaliwa said.
She added that Tanaka’s appointment will enhance his governance and leadership skills, which is key to the youth who represent others in decision making.
Kujaliwa further said NYCOM encourages young people to work with their peers in clubs or youth groups to equip themselves with relevant skills.
She said when opportunities like that of Tanaka arise they should be ready to represent their fellow youth well.
Global Network for Young People Living With HIV selected Enow Awah Georges,Tanaka Chirombo, Aishling McCormack and Korrion Garry who will be representing West and Central Africa, East and Southern Africa, Central Europe and North America respectively as Y+Global Board Members.
