#HIVTalk Google Hangout: Using social media for HIV awareness

MANILA, Philippines – Social Media can be used to spread word about campaigns and advocacies, so how do we use it to amplify messages about HIV?

Much has been said about the exponential rise of HIV in the Philippines in recent years. The UN Global AIDS Report showed that while the rest of the world has managed to bring down their rate of HIV infection, the Philippines is one of 7 countries in the world where HIV continues to rise. Perhaps more alarming is the concentration of new HIV infections among the youth (ages 15-24).
 
In our last #HIVTalk Google hangout, we talked about how the rise of HIV can be linked to social media.

In this episode, we will look at how social media can be used to create and amplify messages about HIV in a way that is accessible to the youth. We will also discuss how social media can move people to action.

Joining our host and Rappler’s resident sex writer Ana Santos will be guests Niccolo Cosme and Mario Balibago.

Cosme is a fashion photographer. He started Project Headshots Clinic 5 years ago with the seemingly simple concept of using a profile picture with an HIV statement and uploading it on one’s social media page. He has combined elements of cutting edge fashion photography and Facebook to increase awareness of HIV.  
 
Balibago is the Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Programme Associate of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). He will share case studies on how local governments and youth groups have turned to social media to reach out to the youth using their language and their medium. 

Join the conversation! Help us influence people to make informed choices. Watch the Google Hangout below. Use and monitor the hashtag #HIVTalk on Twitter to join the conversation. – Rappler.com