Imbizo celebrates World Aids Day

Ms Yvette Raphael was the “star lady of the night” as many of her friends, colleagues and family members spoke about her selfless work and ambassadorship in championing HIV/Aids projects.

Ms Raphael was honoured during a gala dinner held at Imbizo Shisanyama Busy Corner on World Aids Day.

Her journey began 15 years ago after being tested HIV positive.

The Imbizo Shisanyama Busy Corner’s event was graced by the deputy director of Public Safety in the City of Joburg, Eazy Gaompotse, local business people, activists and friends of Ms Raphael, who came from as far as KwaZulu-Natal.

Speaking at the event, Mr Mogale Mashiapata who was the master of ceremonies, said they were celebrating the life of someone who has been through difficult times but has managed to pull herself up.

Meanwhile, Ms Rita Zwane, the owner and founder of Imbizo Shisanyama, said they have lost many of their friends and relatives as a result of Aids.

Ms Raphael founded the Philani Support Group, an organisation for people living with HIV and Aids, which based in Ivory Park, and the Tshwaranang Care Centre for Aids patients in Midrand.

As an activist, she also adopted a child who was placed under the care of the late Mamorwesi, who was her foster parent.

She also worked as the HIV and Aids coordinator for Sasseta.

Later, Ms Raphael was also promoted to the position of Aids ambassador for the greater Midrand area.

“My life changed completely after I tested positive. I was forced to sell my house in Ebony Park and I relocated to Midrand. I fought endlessly with insurance people along the way. I lost friends who were very close to me but my family remained my pillar of strength,” said Ms Raphael.

She thanked her sponsors, The Ring Study and International Partnership for Microbicides.