Using the power of soccer to fight HIV/AIDS

On 22nd September 2009, Vijana Amani Pamoja, VAP conducted a scale up training of trainers’ TOT course at Kiragu social hall.A total of 15 peer educators went through a TOT that emphasised on Skills of using the power of soccer in the fight against HIV.The training also included HIV/AIDS biology and was all about a new revised curriculum dubbed’Skillz curriculum”.Skillz curriculum now contains 10 sessions with some new and simple activities that are well tailored made for youth ages 11-20 years. “Am proud to attend the TOT as well as adapting the new curriculum. The lessons and activities that I have learnt will go along way towards empowering me and the youth that I will be teaching.” Said Edwin Ochieng, VAP peer educator.Skillz participants will be entitled to finish the entire curriculum for them to be graduated with certificates that empower them to become HIV/AIDS ambassadors and teach their peers and families.

OUR SUCCESS!

Soccer has been like a universal language, simply arriving on any field or any open space with a soccer ball, wins INSTANT friendship. For communicating life changing messages, VAP has been using soccer as the most effective conduit because the sport: attracts youth, provides role models; key for behaviour change and it’s universally understood. VAP peer educators have so far graduated 4,300 youth from our community centres and schools and are optimistic of reaching out to 7,500 youth by the end of 2010, the year that brings global football attention to South Africa. “My participation in the Skillz program has been of great impact to my life, and the lives of my friends whom I have taught. Now I can make a wise decision about my future life. “Said, 14 years old Winnie Wambui, a program participant from Church Army primary school.

2010 WORLD CUP AND OUR TARGET

As the world is warming up for the biggest football extravanza, World Cup 2010 in South Africa, VAP is appealing to your continuous financial support as they strive to reach their 2010 vision of reaching out to 7,500 youth by the end of 2010.VAP hopes to empower these young people who will also be empowered to conduct peer education activities within their community, reaching out to thousands more through formal and informal educational sessions.