Beyond Zero embarked on a road show to some of its implementing partners in the   Free State and Eastern Cape provinces, to document raw and authentic programme implementation stories from adolescent and young people (AYP), men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender individuals in locations where programmatic recruitment and service delivery takes place, these vibrant and dynamic environments served as the perfect backdrop for recording our thought-provoking podcasts.

Beneficiaries engaged in deep conversations exploring their challenges, successes and impact that programmatic service delivery has on them as individuals and their communities. These discussions aimed to promote an understanding, acceptance, and the dismantling of stereotypes and barriers that individuals are faced with when accessing health services. The resilience and determination of these individuals stand as a powerful testament to the importance of ongoing health services provision that is tailor made to suite the needs of each population group.  During this podcast journey, we will walk you through Adolescent and Young People Safe Spaces as a key component in providing essential support, resources, and a sense of belonging to the AYP in marginalised communities, emphasising their role in promoting HIV prevention, mental well-being, economic strengthening livelihoods and resilience.

Conversations went beyond surface-level discussions, beneficiaries unpacked topics such as safe sex practices, the benefits of psychosocial support, and the barriers and enablers to healthcare service uptake. The podcast series will address pervasive issues like stigma, discrimination, post-violence support, HIV care and treatment and human rights.

The podcast series will feature 13 episodes, each dedicated to amplifying the voices of marginalised communities, particularly AYP, MSM, and transgender individuals. The goal is to spark dialogue, inspire action, and advocate for more inclusive and supportive environments for these key and priority populations.

The team also had the opportunity to visit Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) funded by Beyond Zero, gaining valuable insight into the incredible work they do and the diverse communities they serve. It was inspiring to see how these dedicated organisations are making a difference in their local communities. The impact of the training provided by Beyond Zero was evident in the increased capacity of the CSOs to address pressing challenges within their communities and efficient operations.  These documentation of the work done on the ground provides for stories of hope, resilience, and the power of collective action.

Don’t miss out on these powerful stories! Follow, like, and subscribe to the Beyond Zero YouTube channel for the podcasts for raw, unfiltered conversations and gaining insights into the ordinary lives of AYP, TG, and MSM community members, and be inspired to advocate for suitable and each population specific health service provision that is sensitive to human rights.