** Next-Generation AVAC Fellows: A call for 2022 applications
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September 2, 2022

Dear Advocate,

AVAC is now inviting applications for its 2022 Advocacy Fellows Program ([link removed]). Read on for more about the program, what’s new in 2022, application details and upcoming informational calls.

DOWNLOAD APPLICATION MATERIALS HERE. ([link removed])
The application deadline is October 12, 2021.

AVAC’s Advocacy Fellows Program aims to expand and strengthen the capacity of civil society advocates and organizations to monitor, support and help shape HIV prevention research and rapid rollout of new effective interventions in low- and middle-income countries with high HIV burdens. At AVAC, we believe the most effective and sustainable advocacy integrates the interests and priorities of individuals and organizations, and prioritizes resilient partnerships. The Fellows program is guided by these principles.

Projects address locally identified gaps and priorities. Fellows receive training, full-time financial support and technical assistance to plan and implement a targeted 18-month project within host organizations working in HIV or related advocacy. Host organizations are critical partners in the program. Fellows’ projects can be an opportunity for an organization to further develop its own work in HIV prevention advocacy.

Since launching in 2009, 77 Fellows and 67 partner organizations from 14 countries have participated in the program. They have gone on to change policy, champion community perspectives, help strengthen healthcare systems, demystify HIV prevention research, and insist on fairness and transparency locally, regionally and globally. Read more about the work and achievements of past Fellows. ([link removed])

**What's New for the 2022 Program
The 2022 program reflects an intensive independent review of the program’s impact and contribution over the last decade. Responding to the recommendations from current and alumni Fellows and Hosts, AVAC is expanding the role of alumni support to Fellows in their countries; strengthening partnerships and capacity building with Host organizations; increasing support to Fellows in countries that do not have alumni networks; expanding training to prepare for post-Fellowship transitions; and increasing the Fellowship length to 18 months.

While HIV biomedical prevention advocacy will continue to be the focus, we encourage a strong focus on health equity, structural issues and linkages to COVID-19 and TB prevention efforts.

Priority will be given to applications from Eastern and Southern Africa where biomedical HIV prevention research is planned or ongoing or where there is an urgent need for the delivery or scale-up of proven biomedical interventions. To see where HIV research and rollout is being conducted, visit the Prevention & Research database ([link removed]) and the Trial Map ([link removed]).

**HIV Prevention Research Advocacy Fellows are:

* Emerging or mid-career community leaders and advocates interested in strengthening their advocacy skills and advocating for HIV prevention. While the primary focus is on HIV biomedical prevention interventions, applicants can also incorporate advocacy that includes COVID-19 and TB prevention.
* Individuals with experience or education in HIV and/or COVID-19 or other areas of public health, or in advocacy for key populations, such as sex workers, LGBTQ individuals and drug users, or in advocacy for social and economic justice.
* Individuals based in low- and middle-income countries with high HIV burdens and where HIV prevention research is ongoing or where new interventions are being introduced. Please note that for 2022 fellowships, the priority focus is on Eastern and Southern Africa.
* Proficient in written and spoken English.

**Learn More

Prospective applicants or host organizations who want to learn more or have questions are encouraged to:
* Watch two videos featuring past Fellows reflecting on their experience here ([link removed]) and here ([link removed]).
* Download the 2022 Advocacy Fellows Information Packet ([link removed]) and application materials.
* Visit AVAC's Fellows page ([link removed]) for more information on the application process and to learn more about current and alumni Fellows.
* Email the team at [email protected].
* Join one of two informational conference calls to learn more about the program. Visit www.timeanddate.com to confirm the time in your timezone):

+ Friday, September 10 at 3pm SAST/ 4pm EAT. Register here. ([link removed])
+ Wednesday, September 15 at 3pm SAST/ 4pm EAT. Register here. ([link removed])

Applications are due by OCTOBER 12, 2021, and 2022 Fellowships will run from April 2022 through Sept 2023.

Please share this information with your networks, and we look forward to receiving your application.

Best,
AVAC


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