In August 2024, Munich, Germany, became the epicenter for global discussions on AIDS care and disaster management at the International AIDS Conference. Among the notable contributors were Tabish Hamid and Daniyal Abdullah, both representing Pakistan and showcasing the intersection of disaster management with HIV care.
Tabish’s Journey:
Tabish Hamid, the President of Young Leaders Society Pakistan (YLS-P), received an invitation to conduct a workshop at the conference. Fully funded, this opportunity was a recognition of his extensive work in public policy and youth activism, particularly his focus on integrating disaster management with HIV prevention and care in flood-affected areas of Pakistan. The workshop, titled “Inclusive HIV Prevention Support During Natural Disasters,” was a resounding success. It aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure that HIV prevention efforts are not sidelined during disasters. Tabish’s workshop covered essential topics such as understanding the intersection of HIV and disaster response, identifying vulnerable populations, and developing disaster preparedness plans. The workshop’s success was marked by its interactive nature, including role-playing exercises and collaborative planning sessions, which helped participants develop practical strategies that they could implement in their respective regions.
Daniyal’s Journey:
Daniyal Abdullah, a key member of YLS-P, was also invited to AIDS 2024 with full funding. Daniyal was selected to present a poster on his research on the integration of HIV care within disaster management frameworks, a topic that has gained increasing importance in the wake of frequent natural disasters in Pakistan. His poster presentation, which drew from his research and field experiences, highlighted the gaps in current disaster management practices concerning HIV care. Daniyal’s work underscored the need for a more comprehensive approach that not only addresses the immediate needs during disasters but also ensures the continuity of care for those living with HIV. His presentation was well-received, sparking meaningful discussions among attendees about the challenges and opportunities in integrating health care services during crises.
A Shared Vision:
Both Tabish and Daniyal’s contributions at AIDS 2024 were deeply rooted in their shared vision of a world where health care, particularly HIV prevention and care, is resilient even in the face of disasters. Their participation underscored the importance of proactive measures in disaster management to ensure that vulnerable populations are not left behind. Moreover, their work brought international attention to the challenges faced by Pakistan, a country often hit by natural disasters, and the innovative solutions being developed to address these challenges.
Their journey to AIDS 2024 was more than just an opportunity to share their knowledge; it was a chance to connect with global leaders, exchange ideas, and bring back insights that could further strengthen their work in Pakistan. As they returned home, Tabish and Daniyal carried with them not only the accolades of their peers but also a renewed commitment to advancing the cause of inclusive health care and disaster management in their country.
Their involvement in AIDS 2024 exemplifies the crucial role that young leaders can play in shaping global health policies and disaster management strategies. Through their efforts, they have not only highlighted the intersection of HIV care and disaster management but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations that can lead to more resilient health care systems worldwide.