Developing peer-led youth camps for HIV prevention and youth development in South Africa: The camp "sizanani (help each other)" program

Introduction: “Sizanani”, translated from a Zulu word, means to “help each other”. Youth with stronger support system and life skills are likely be more successful at staying HIV free. Methods: Global Camps Africa (GCA) partners with a regional certified NGO providing HIV services, and the University of Georgia to change the lives of HIV-affected youths by providing HIV prevention education through high impact day- and residential- camp experiences. Results: The Camp Sizanani program has built strong relationships among partners in South Africa and U.S. to develop this peer-led youth camp model for HIV prevention. This session describes the process of placing HIV/AIDS education within the camp context based on GCA's ten years of leadership. Topics include: (1) process of finding a local partner to offer HIV prevention program delivered via camp mechanism, (2) overview of the HIV prevention camp program development and implementation, (3) strategies related to staff recruitment and training, and (4) program evaluation to document and refine the process. In addition, “purpose-driven” icebreaker activities with guided debriefing sessions designed to capture attention and focus will be introduced. A day at camp Sizanani involves five core curriculum modules, including the life skills, the single most important segment that provides peer-led HIV prevention curriculum. Conclusion: This session discussed how building partnerships and incorporating local assets and cultural values can successfully develop this interdisciplinary international HIV prevention camp program to equip young people with life-skills that will support them in becoming safe and productive adults who have hope for the future.