On March 1st, Positive Women Inc. was invited to do HIV and Syphilis rapid testing at the Mapu Maia event, “Together We Thrive”, held at the Northcote War Memorial Hall on the North Shore, Auckland. This initiative was part of our ongoing collaboration.
Mapu Maia is dedicated to providing holistic services tailored to individuals, families, and communities, ensuring they are both culturally appropriate and effective. Their mission is to empower people through free, professional, and confidential counselling services, as well as educational outreach. “Together We Thrive” aligns with this mission by offering a platform that encourages health awareness, fosters community connections, and promotes well-being. The campaign places a strong emphasis on celebrating cultural diversity, ensuring that health and wellness are approached in an inclusive and supportive manner.
The event itself was a vibrant and dynamic gathering that featured a range of health services and engaging entertainment. Attendees had access to various support organizations, including Harbour Sport, Bowel Screening, Well Women and Family Trust, and many more. These groups provided essential health checks and information, ensuring that community members could take proactive steps toward maintaining their well-being. In addition to health screenings, the event was an opportunity for people to learn about available resources and connect with professionals in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
The entertainment segment was equally lively and engaging, featuring energetic Zumba classes that had participants moving enthusiastically, as well as beautiful performances of traditional Samoan dance. The fusion of cultural expression and health promotion created an inviting atmosphere where attendees felt encouraged to participate and learn.
Our testers on the day where Benji who is a part time tester for Positive Women Inc. and Samora from the Burnett foundation. They both commented on how warm and inviting the event was, noting the genuine friendliness of those in attendance. From the enthusiastic community members taking part in activities to the dedicated volunteers and healthcare professionals, the positive energy was palpable. The event successfully fostered a sense of unity, breaking down barriers and ensuring important health services were accessible to all.
Through our participation in “Together We Thrive”, Positive Women Inc. continues to strengthen our commitment to community health, education, and support. We look forward to future collaborations that will allow us to further our mission of promoting HIV testing based on a “Status Neutral” approach.
