The CROSS PATC³H-IN Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is thrilled to begin a new chapter as it welcomes a vibrant and passionate leadership team for Year 2. This year’s transition brings both renewal and continuity: the YAB Co-Chairs were reelected by the YAB CRC members following a thorough review of their applications, reaffirming confidence in their leadership, while the Digital Lead was newly selected through the same rigorous process. Together, this team reinforces our commitment to ensuring that young people remain at the center of efforts to end HIV. The YAB continues to be a driving force for youth advocacy, uniting young leaders whose creativity, lived experiences, and fresh perspectives shape the future of HIV prevention, care, and research.
Leading this year’s team is re-elected Co-Chair Aishat Adedoyin Koledowo from S-I TEST, Nigeria. With a strong background in public health, particularly in infectious diseases and reproductive health research, Aishat has consistently championed youth empowerment and health equity. Now in her second year with the YAB, she remains committed to equipping young people with the knowledge, access, and confidence they need to take charge of their health. Her dedication ensures that youth voices are not only heard but meaningfully embedded in strategic decisions that impact communities across the continent.
Joining her as Co-Chair is re-elected Neale Nomujuni Natukwatsa from MUJHU, Uganda. Neale brings extensive experience in youth leadership, public health, and policy advocacy, along with a deep passion for inclusive youth participation. Known for advancing health rights and social accountability, he is committed to guiding the board’s strategic vision and fostering strong collaboration among members. Together, Aishat and Neale are well positioned to lead the YAB in ways that keep young people at the forefront of HIV-related initiatives across the PATC³H-IN project and its partner networks.
The leadership team also welcomes new digital lead, Nathan Raven from RISE, Kenya as Digital Lead. With a background in fine arts and design, Nathan brings a unique creative spark to the Board. His passion for storytelling and community impact aligns closely with the YAB’s mission of elevating youth voices through digital platforms. Beyond his artistic skill, he aims to bridge communication and advocacy by offering fresh ideas and authentic insights that reflect the realities of young people. His role will be central in leveraging digital tools to share youth stories, amplify key messages, and inspire collective action.
This new leadership team embodies the YAB’s core values of youth-led innovation and shared leadership. Together, they represent a vision where young people are not passive participants but active drivers of change in HIV advocacy, research, and policy. In the year ahead, the YAB plans to deepen youth engagement, strengthen networks, and address ongoing challenges such as stigma, misinformation, and limited access to care.
As the PATC³H-IN Youth Advisory Board begins another impactful year, the energy and dedication of its leadership promise new opportunities for growth, transformation, and meaningful progress. Their continued efforts will amplify youth voices and inspire change across communities.