Mark Shaheel Lal has become the first person since 2015 in Fiji to publicly declare his status as a person living with HIV.
He came forward at a World Aids Day celebration in Nadi yesterday.
In a social media post, he stated for too long, he has lived in silence.
“But today, I am stepping out of that silence and into the light. I am the first Indian gay man in my community to come out as HIV positive, and it is with great pride that I share this truth with you,” Mr Lal said.
“HIV is not a death sentence; it is not a mark of shame, and it certainly does not define me. I am not my diagnosis. I am my courage, my love, my strength.”
“For every tear I’ve shed, for every fear I’ve faced, I have emerged stronger, more whole. I stand tall today, not in spite of HIV, but because of it. It has been the fire that forged me, the storm that shaped me.”
Country Director Fiji and the Pacific for UNAIDS, Renata Ram also praised Mr Lal for speaking out.
“Mark, your bravery and strength in putting a human face to this epidemic is nothing short of extraordinary. Your voice will inspire hope, challenge stigma, and ignite change. I am incredibly proud of you and deeply grateful for your courage,” she said.
