Project

Advocacy Navigator

Preparing the next generation of HIV prevention advocates

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

Applications

Apply now! 📣 AVAC is accepting Advocacy Navigator applications!

Following a successful 2023 program, AVAC is delighted to launch the 2024 Advocacy Navigator program and invites applications from emerging advocates from Eastern and Southern Africa interested in strengthening their skills in HIV prevention advocacy. Applications for the Advocacy Navigator program are now being accepted through 8 March 2024.

For more information on the application process, visit here. And join us for an informational webinar on Tuesday, 13 February. Register here. For any questions, contact Hannah Nelson at hnelson@avac.org.

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. 

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.

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.