The AIDS Secretariat, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, successfully hosted its “Teen Talk Seminar: My Life, My Choices”, engaging students from ten secondary schools across Antigua and Barbuda.

During the event, Minister of Health, Sir Molwyn M. Joseph, delivered a powerful address, urging students to use their willpower to abstain from risky behaviours, protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections, and seek guidance from trusted, knowledgeable individuals. He further encouraged the AIDS Secretariat to continue hosting informative and youth-centered educational sessions on an ongoing basis.

The seminar also featured motivational presentations and lectures from Dr. Margarethe Belle, Loretta Benjamin, Joy-Ann Harrigan, and Nikisha Smith. Remarks were delivered by CARICOM Youth Ambassador and Commonwealth Youth Peace Ambassador, Ms. Janet Simon.

Participants explored key topics such as: Understanding STIs, Sex and the Teenager, HIV and the Human Body, Self-Esteem and Media Literacy and Navigating Social Pressures.

The Teen Talk Seminar forms part of the AIDS Secretariat’s 2025 World AIDS Day Week of Activities.

World AIDS Day will be officially observed on Monday, December 1st.

The week of activities will conclude on Sunday with the Grand Red Ribbon Day and Street Parade through St. John’s.