HOKISA turned seven on World Aids Day 2009 and along with this we celebrated one of our children’s 7th birthday.
World AIDS day is a special day all over the world. For us as HOKISA it is even more special. We celebrated HOKISA’s 7th anniversary. In terms of HOKISA as an organization this day means looking back at where we come from. Looking at how much we have achieved thus far. We remember when stigma was still so rife in our community that one could feel that by the disgusted look from people. Much of that has changed now. People look at us and realize how much change we have brought in these children’s lives. HOKISA has changed many people’s perceptions about HIV and AIDS. The road we have traveled so far was not easy but it was worth it.
World AIDS day does not only coincide with HOKISA’s birthday, it is also one of the boys’ birthday. As we were celebrating the opening HOKISA in 2002, his mother gave birth to him. He is a very special (like any other child) boy. He enjoys life and is always jovial. He always makes sure that no one forgets his birthday (not that we do). He knows it’s a very special day.
