Celebrating 12 Years of VIDA: Empowering the Latinx Community to Overcome HIV Stigma and Health Disparities

By Cesar A Reyes

As we honor Hispanic Heritage Month, we proudly celebrate 12 years of VIDA, a vital San Diego-based nonprofit dedicated to educating and empowering the Latinx community in the fight against HIV. VIDA’s mission is to reduce and ultimately eliminate HIV by breaking down the walls of stigma and to address the social challenges such as poverty, language barriers, and limited access to care that contribute to higher infection rates. Through health education, community partnerships, and advocacy, VIDA works tirelessly to promote awareness and provide resources that help ensure the Latinx community can live fulfilling, stigma-free lives.

One of VIDA’s proudest events is the annual LGBTQA+ Latinx Scholarship Award Luncheon, taking place this year on Friday, September 12 at Urban Mo’s Bar & Grill. At this special event, four Latinx students will be celebrated and awarded scholarships in recognition of their achievements. In addition to honoring these outstanding students, the luncheon will also recognize three Latinx community leaders for their dedicated work supporting the Latinx community. We had the opportunity to sit down with Esteban Duarte, VIDA’s founder, CEO, and Executive Director, as well as this year’s scholarship recipients (Paola Gonzalez, Adrian Dunne-Ramirez, Edna Lorquet, and Aldo Jacobo) and honorees (Max Disposti, Michelle Sandoval-Rosario, and Jason Cuneo). Get to know these inspiring Latinx individuals making a difference in our community. Mi Gente; Mi VIDA. Click on the image for the full interviews

Esteban Duarte

Paola Gonzalez

Adrian Dunne-Ramirez

Edna Lorquet

Aldo Jacobo

Max Disposti

Michelle Sandoval-Rosario

Jason Cuneo