The Mulwade Foundation is built on the pillars of Support, Guidance, and Education, principles that have been a guiding light through my own journey with HIV. As the CEO and founder, my story is one of learning, resilience, forgiveness, and ultimately, a desire to give back to the LGBTQ+ community by creating a safe, supportive space for those affected by HIV.
In 2015, I experienced the shock and heartbreak of an HIV diagnosis that came unexpectedly and, as I later discovered, was the result of deceit. Initially, I felt isolated, betrayed, and like my world had been shattered. The stigma and shame were overwhelming, and I questioned my future, my relationships, and my place in the queer community. In that darkness, though, I found strength, and from that strength, the Mulwade Foundation was born. I knew I wasn’t alone in feeling these things, and I wanted to create a community where no one else would have to face these challenges alone.
The Mulwade Foundation’s Core Pillars
- Support: At Mulwade, we recognise that living with HIV is not just a medical journey; it’s an emotional and mental one too. Many people face immense stigma, which can compound feelings of isolation and anxiety. We offer free, compassionate counselling and a network of support that emphasises community and understanding. hrough our services, we aim to reassure each individual that they are seen, valued, and supported. Every year, we provide emotional support and practical resources, helping those affected by HIV find the resilience they need to move forward.
- Guidance: From the start, I knew Mulwade had to be a place where individuals could turn for more than just emotional support; they needed real, actionable guidance. Navigating life with HIV can be complex, especially when it comes to health, relationships, and sometimes the legal issues surrounding disclosure and discrimination. At Mulwade, we provide tools, information, and personalised guidance to help our community members make informed decisions and advocate for themselves confidently.
- Education: Education is at the heart of dismantling the stigma around HIV. Through outreach, workshops, and community events, we strive to share accurate information and counter harmful myths about HIV. Education opens doors to compassion, and by telling our stories and sharing knowledge, we foster a more inclusive society. Mulwade’s educational initiatives empower individuals to understand HIV in a holistic way, so they can live proudly and openly without fear or shame.
Riot Act: A Reflection of Our Mission
On World AIDS Day this year, we are presenting Riot Act, a solo performance by Alexis Gregory that aligns deeply with our mission of Support, Guidance, and Education. Directed by Rikki Beadle-Blair, Riot Act is more than just a play—it’s a moving chronicle of LGBTQ+ history and resilience. Gregory’s portrayal of key figures from the Stonewall uprising, early drag culture, and the AIDS crisis speaks to the journey of those who came before us, who fought bravely against stigma and struggled for equal rights.
For me, Riot Act is a reminder of why I founded Mulwade in the first place. It highlights the power of community, the importance of acknowledging our history, and the need to support one another. By showcasing this performance, we hope to continue our mission to educate the public about HIV, support those who are living with or affected by the virus, and guide individuals through their journey, reminding them they are not alone.
Attending Riot Act is more than just watching a performance; it’s an act of solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community, a way of honouring those who have faced HIV-related challenges, and a step toward breaking down the barriers of stigma. As someone who has been through the highs and lows of living with HIV, I can personally attest to the need for spaces that foster hope and resilience. The Mulwade Foundation, in hosting Riot Act, is here to provide that space—a place where everyone can feel safe, heard, and empowered.
On December 1st at 21 Soho, we invite you to join us for Riot Act. This event isn’t just a tribute to the past; it’s a beacon for the future, a chance to connect, learn, and strengthen the bonds within our community. Together, we can continue to fight stigma, provide essential support, and help individuals living with HIV find their light.
Riot Act is on 1 December 2024, 7:30 pm, at 21 Soho, 3-5 Sutton Row, London W1D 4NR, United Kingdom.
