Beyond Stigma

Say it louder - self-love is NOT selfish
So often we pour into everyone around us and leave nothing for ourselves. But you can’t show up fully for others when your own cup is empty. Choosing yourself isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. You deserve the same love you give so freely to others 💚

We were deeply honoured to be joined by Beyond Stigma Wakakosha Coaches and Zimbabwe-trained Coaches of The Work of Byron Katie, including Sophie Dillimitis, Vongai Chikono, and Anastasia Gada, who spent meaningful time connecting with young people and Community Adolescent Treatment Supporters (CATS) at Zvandiri house.

With so much warmth, compassion, and wisdom, they helped us challenge the limiting beliefs we sometimes carry in silence and reconnect with a truth that every young person deserves to hear and believe:

You are worthy. You are enough. You always have been.

Our Community of Practice created a brave and beautiful space for reflection, healing, and self-compassion through “Dear Me” letters — heartfelt messages written to ourselves.

Stigma doesn’t just come from others- sometimes it lives within us💔
Research shows that internalized HIV stigma has a deeper impact on treatment behaviors and outcomes than other forms of stigma, including anticipated stigma, perceived community stigma, and enacted stigma.
When people living with HIV absorb society’s judgments as their own, it directly affects whether they seek and stay in care. Breaking the stigma starts with changing the narrative in our communities and within ourselves

Your self love journey starts with the small steps 💛
Move your body. Spend time with loved ones. Believe in yourself. Eat well. Make time to relax.
This is Wellness Wednesday, Beyond Stigma reminds you that taking care of yourself isn’t selfish- it’s essential.
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Building on yesterday’s momentum, Nadine, CEO of Beyond Stigma, met with Mather, Head of Programmes at Zvandiri, to review the Wakakosha project and share key updates. Together with the team, they reflected on progress, challenges, and lessons shaping the journey ahead.

Despite funding uncertainties, meaningful opportunities remain to stay connected through virtual spaces, self-worth collectives, and local communities of practice.

Yesterday kicked off on a high note as Beyond Stigma CEO Dr Nadine Ferris France, all the way from Ireland 🇮🇪, joined CATS, YMMs, and coaches to strengthen the Wakakosha intervention in Zimbabwe.

Six coaches and 18 young people engaged in an energising refresher on facilitation, Inquiry, and Beyond Stigma principles, creating a safe space to explore real-life challenges and their deeper stories.

Through honest conversations, light moments 😊, and reflection, participants challenged limiting beliefs and discovered new perspectives rooted in resilience and self-worth.

Work-life balance looks different for everyone. Some days you’re focused on work, other days you need rest, connection or time alone.
This wellness Wednesday, remember that balance is not a perfect split; it’s a practice of listening to yourself and adjusting with kindness

Courtesy stigma doesn’t only affect people living with HIV — it can impact their families too.
Gossip, rejection, and isolation can ripple through a household, creating fear and silence.
When we challenge stigma, we protect not just individuals, but entire families.

We successfully conducted an Alumni Inquiry Circle, bringing together CATS, YMMs, and beneficiaries who have received Wakakosha support since 2021. The session provided a safe space for young people to reconnect, reflect on their journeys, and deepen their inquiry practice.

A total of 82 participants attended and were divided into 6 groups, each supported by a Wakakosha Mentor to allow for more focused engagement. The session complemented ongoing weekly virtual inquiries and strengthened peer support, mentorship, and personal growth.

Through Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (IBSR), participants explored and questioned stressful thoughts that had persisted beyond previous sessions. Creative activities and group reflections further strengthened connection and shared learning.

A reflection from Loving What Is by Byron Katie helped participants understand the importance of noticing thoughts that take them away from a place of peace.

By the end of the session, participants showed a deeper understanding of inquiry tools and how to apply them in daily life, with many highlighting the importance of “staying in their own business.”

“I used to believe every negative thought I had, but now I pause and ask myself if it is really true. I feel lighter and more in control of my life.” — Participant

ViiV Healthcare Zvandiri Right to Care South Africa UNAIDS

The way we talk to ourselves shapes how we move through the world. A gentle reminder today; you are allowed to celebrate your progress, honor your efforts and start fresh whenever you need to. Choose words that lift you up
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