'Drive Out AIDS' Raffle Series: Kiesha Johnson Wins Round-Trip Flight to Australia
As one of the early-bird prize winners for the Drive Out AIDS, Win a New Car raffle series, New Jersey resident Kiesha Johnson won a round-trip flight to Melbourne, Australia, for the International AIDS Conference. Johnson connected with The Black AIDS Institute at the 2013 United States Conference on AIDS in New Orleans, where the Institute entered participants who had completed at least 10 activities—such as preconference, roundtables, seminars, workshops and booth visits—into the Roadmap Challenge raffle. We asked Kiesha a few questions about her experience.
Tell us about yourself.
I currently work as the program manager of the Women's HIV Prevention Program at a federally qualified health center in New Jersey; we have several sites throughout Essex County. I started with my organization after graduating from the University of Florida with a degree in psychology. With my free time, I enjoy bowling, movie nights and a nice jog.
How did you connect with The Black AIDS Institute?
I have always been familiar with The Black AIDS Institute—mainly on the work and reports that they release. Additionally, I was more familiar with the advocacy work Phill Wilson has done for those living with HIV.
What was your experience at the Roadmap Challenge?
The Roadmap Challenge enhanced the conference experience. Although there were a great deal of things happening and being presented, I feel the planned workshops highlighted some of the key topics presented.
How do you feel about the trip to Melbourne for the International AIDS Conference?
The trip will be very helpful for my work! Essex County is one of the most poverty-stricken counties in New Jersey. The clients that come through our doors are underserved and marginalized. As I continue my education and training, I increase my connectivity to my community and to the world. And I am continually striving to grow professionally and personally.
One of my favorite quotes is from Helen Keller, and it speaks to success, experience and strength: "Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired and success achieved."
Continue to support the fight to end AIDS! Purchase your tickets for the Drive Out AIDS final raffle for the 2014 Kia Forte or another Carnival Cruise for two, which will take place on May 20, 2014 at the 15th Annual Heroes in the Struggle gala, by calling 213-353-3610, ext. 107, or sending an email to
Gerald Garth is a Los Angeles-based writer, actor and accountant who works for The Black AIDS Institute.