Nkosi Johnson was born on February 4, 1989 and would have turned 31 this year. He died of Aids-related complications on June 1, 2001, at the age of 12. At the time, Johnson was South Africa’s longest surviving HIV-positive-born child. He rose to international prominence in July 2000 when he delivered his self-written address, televised worldwide, to 10 000 delegates at the 13th International Aids Conference in Durban.
“Hi, my name is Nkosi Johnson,”. I am 11 years old and I have full-blown Aids. I was born HIV-positive. We are normal. We have hands. We have feet. We can walk, we can talk, we have needs just like everyone else. Don’t be afraid of us, we are all the same. Care for us and accept us, we are all human beings,” he said at the conclusion of his speech.
“Audiences around the world heard his speeches, which helped destigmatize the global perspective on those affected by the disease. Together with Gail, they established Nkosi’s Haven, an NGO still active today that provides a safe home and healthcare for families affected by Aids.”
He is remembered as an Aids activist who challenged the South African government’s Aids policies and united millions of South Africans in the fight against the disease. Johnson’s legacy continues to live on through Nkosi’s Haven, which was named after the young boy and continues to cater and support HIV-positive mothers and children. “Nkosi Johnson would have been proud of the high number of patients on ARV’s said Gail Johnson Nkosi’s adopted Mother.
“Today’s doodle honours the life and legacy of a voice of change heard by millions around the world. Audiences around the world heard his speeches, which helped destigmatize the global perspective on those affected by the disease. Together with Gail, they established Nkosi’s Haven, an NGO still active today that provides a safe home and healthcare for families affected by Aids,” said Google
