Adrian, a Community Health Advocate at The Fortune Society, is a spokesmodel for the HIV Stops with Me campaign. The campaign aims to link people to HIV care and resources, build community and self-esteem among people living with HIV, and reduce stigma by sharing real stories and experiences.

A long-time advocate who first joined the campaign in 2018, Adrian continually looks for ways, professionally and personally, to uplift his community.

“This year’s theme is positive vibes, which I think goes perfectly with everything going on, because we need to come together more than ever and have our voices heard,” Adrian said. “It’s important to advocate for our communities, combat stigma, and, really, just to come together. And I thought this was the perfect opportunity to do that.”

Adrian was born with HIV and was once told he wouldn’t live past the age of five. Today, he shares his story of resilience to inspire others facing similar challenges.

“I think it’s important to always have a positive outlook on things,” Adrian said. “I dealt with stigma back in my high school years, being bullied when kids found out my status. But I think a big part of that is being able to navigate the challenges and barriers and keep a positive outlook, which is something I try to do every day.”

The campaign is also a powerful platform for education. Many people remain uninformed about HIV and the resources available to them, and Adrian works to correct that.

At Fortune’s Center for Research, Inquiry and Social Justice, Adrian connects participants to services tailored to their needs, including healthcare, housing, food access, and public benefits. He also links people to HIV care, PrEP services, mental health support, and substance use treatment.

Education is central to his role, so Adrian provides information on medications, PrEP options, STIs, and safe sex practices.

“I want people to know that you can live a long, healthy life with HIV,” Adrian said. “I’m living proof of that. I was born with it, and I’m still striving more than ever to shed light and love onto others and just spread positive vibes. Hopefully that message comes through.”