Two young women who participated in a groundbreaking HIV study as infants recently made a significant impact at the AIDS 2024 Conference in Munich.

Juliana Marais from Bellville and Kwezi Ndaba from Khayelitsha were both enrolled in the Children with HIV Early Antiretroviral Randomised (CHER) trial 18 years ago. Earlier this year, they were invited to join researchers from Stellenbosch University's Family Centre for Research with UBUNTU (FAMCRU) at the AIDS 2024 Conference in Munich.

The CHER study, led by Prof Mark Cotton, focused on babies born with HIV and demonstrated that early antiretroviral treatment saved lives. Dr Sharon Kruger, a psychologist and researcher at FAMCRU, explained: "These two young women were the first babies who went on treatment at birth."

“They have been followed up longitudinally at FAMCRU and were part of a buddy peer support group run by FAMCRU for adolescents who are research participants," Kruger continued. “They were identified in that group as being great HIV advocates. They are very comfortable about disclosing their status, and about sharing information with others."

At the conference, Marais and Ndaba participated in panel discussions, sharing their experiences as CHER participants and addressing crucial topics such as HIV transition from paediatric to adult care, treatment interruption, and hopes for a cure. Their personal stories reminded scientists of the human aspect behind the data and highlighted the benefits of a supportive research environment.

The young women's involvement extended beyond the conference. Marais was featured in photographer Steven Doyle's Instagram documentary on people living with HIV, and both met individuals known to have been cured of HIV.

Dr Kruger praised their performance, stating, "They were excellent HIV ambassadors. They spoke openly to other participants about their experiences in a way which encouraged others to speak out about their challenges."

This event marks a significant milestone in the journey of these young women, showcasing their growth from study participants to influential HIV advocates on the global stage.

Caption: Juliana Marais and Kwezi Ndaba joined researchers from Stellenbosch University's Family Centre for Research with UBUNTU (FAMCRU) at the AIDS 2024 Conference in Munich.