We created this space to honor individuals lost to HIV, celebrate the significant progress we’ve made through science and advocacy, and uplift the people living and thriving with HIV today. We especially gathered to respond to the months of ongoing political attacks and threats to our communities’ progress.
Panelists outlined what it will take to move HIV advocacy in North Carolina forward. Experts across clinical research, healthcare practice, community services, and public health policy named the key policy gaps that NCAAN commits to prioritizing and addressing in 2026.
Our communities’ urgent message was clear: we’ve come too far to turn back now. Speakers focused on practical steps people can take to get Ready to Rise to this moment and stay dedicated to a North Carolina where everyone living with and impacted by HIV have consistent, barrier-free access to the essential care and services they need.
Moderator Chelsea Gulden, MSW (RAIN), led a powerful discussion with a wide range of community and healthcare leaders, including:
- Adriana Faldo Adams, Executive Director of Triad Health Project
- Maria Rosales, Executive Director of FaithAction International
- Brad Lockwood, Community Engagement Manager at ViiV Healthcare
- Dr. LeShonda Wallace, Advanced Practice Nurse at Novant Health and Executive Director of SEEDS of Healing
- Ciara Zachary, Assistant Dean for Master’s Programs at UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health
- Dr. Shuntai Zhou, Clinical Researcher at UNC-Chapel Hill
We are grateful to collaborate with Viiv Healthcare, which sponsored this event.
