This article was written by RK, former Penta Young Reporter and current YR mentor. It is taken from the Penta 2025 Annual Report.
I am RK, an adolescent peer supporter and public speaker from Kampala, Uganda, working with young people to improve their adherence, engagement in care, and understanding of how to live well with HIV.
I joined the Penta Young Reporters Programme to strengthen my voice as a youth advocate and learn how to communicate research and health information in ways that young people can easily understand.
Participating in the programme has been a defining milestone in my advocacy journey. It strengthened my ability to translate complex HIV research into clear, accessible, youth-friendly narratives, while also giving me the confidence to contribute meaningfully in global health spaces. Through mentorship and storytelling, I experienced both professional and personal growth.
As a participant from Uganda, I witnessed how the initiative brought together young people from different regions. Learning from other Young Reporters across the world helped me better understand the diverse challenges young people face in accessing HIV care, as well as the creative ways they advocate for youth-friendly services in their communities.
In 2025, the project received significant recognition, including being Highly Recommended at the Pharmaceutical Market Excellence Award (PMEA) and winning the Communiqué Awards for Excellence in Patient Engagement. These achievements reflect the passion, creativity, and dedication of everyone involved.
Most importantly, I returned to my community better equipped to amplify young voices and promote meaningful youth engagement in HIV research and care. I feel proud and grateful to have been part of such an inspiring experience – one that continues to grow, creating opportunities for new Young Reporters and expanding its reach across the globe.
Now, I am honoured to be part of the new edition of the programme as a Young Reporter Mentor, supporting and guiding the next group of participants. It is incredibly meaningful to help other young advocates grow their confidence, share their stories, and begin the same powerful journey that shaped my own.