‘I feel so happy to have attended the information workshop organized by Estrela+ Timor-Leste and UNFPA Timor-Leste, because this is the first HIV/AIDS information workshop that I have ever attended.’

Dr. Sidonio has been working at the Kailako Health Center in Bobonaro as a general practitioner for 4 years. He was a participant of the Basic Information about HIV/AIDS Stigma and Discrimination for the Health Personnel workshop organized by Estrela+ and supported by UNFPA Timor-Leste on the 24/4/2018. 

“The training really has increased my knowledge and that of my colleagues regarding HIV issues. It made me understand that in order to be able to provide help, and maximum care, to people living with HIV, health workers, need to shake off the stigma attached to people living with HIV, and also increase our knowledge on HIV/AIDS.”

He also mentioned that with continued socialization and dissemination of information regarding HIV/AIDS, the stigmatization and discrimination of people living with HIV will be reduced, both in the health sector and in the communities as a whole.  

In reducing the stigmatization and discrimination of people living with HIV, dr. Sidonio expressed that “it will contribute to prevent more people to be diagnosed with HIV, and also help the people living with HIV to realize that there is hope [for a life with dignity].”

“I hope that there will be more sessions to come and that all health workers in Timor-Leste will be able to take part”.

UNFPA Timor-Leste is actively promoting accurate information regarding HIV/AIDS in order to reduce stigma and discrimination of people living with HIV in Timor-Leste.