In 2013, 610,000 young people across the Asia-Pacific region were living with HIV. But a group of youth HIV activists there are working to end stigma and change the status quo for an AIDS-free future. Here are a few of their stories.
"As an adolescent, I was violated, harassed and bullied because I was ‘too feminine’ as a boy. I even stigmatized myself. During the bad times I knew it wasn't just me, so I decided if I didn't start voicing these problems no one would, so that’s why I started.”
-Setia Perdana, 25, of Indonesia
"I face many challenges in life. I've been called 'HIV guy' by people. I asked them why, and it was because I was working with the HIV community...I would like to see more investment in HIV services and counselling rooms, and for these to be more friendly towards young people if they want to use them."
-Myo That Oo, 20, of Myanmar
©UNICEF EAPRO/2014/Jingjai N