ESTRELA +

Email: estrelaplus.easttimor@gmail.com

I. Istoria badak organizasaun

Estrela+ is a membership association of people living with HIV and AIDS (PLHIV) in Timor-Leste which works to improve the quality of the lives of all PLHIV in Timor-Leste through advocating for the recognition, respect and promotion of the rights of PLHIV at the local, national and international levels.

Estrela+ was established in 2009 by four HIV positive individuals on the basis of the belief that positive people must have a collective voice in addressing vital issues that affect their lives, and that PLHIV themselves must be responsible for decision-making within a PLHIV organisation. The Greater Involvement of People Living with HIV and AIDS (the GIPA Principle) is at the core of Estrela+' work. Estrela+ is run by HIV positive people for HIV positive people. All members of Estrela+ belong to the PLHIV community and it is governed by a HIV positive Board. Currently, Estrela+ has more than 100 members in its network throughout the country. Estrela+ is a registered NGO with FONGTIL (NGO Forum) and the Ministry of Justice Timor-Leste.

Estrela+ currently has 8 full-time staff in its Dili office and 6 part-time peer support group volunteers who are located in Suai, Maliana and Baucau.

By ensuring that the rights of PLHIV are upheld in Timor Leste, the work of Estrela+ contributes to Timor Leste’ national programme to reduce the risk and impact of HIV/AIDS by ensuring that PLHIV in Timor Leste are equipped with skills and knowledge about HIV and HIV related rights, treatment options and are able to access health care and other support services when required.

III. Visaun no Misaun oranizasaun

Our Vision

To see a community of PLHIV in Timor-Leste living healthy productive lives with respect and dignity, and free from discrimination.

Our Mission

Estrela+ aims to achieve its Vision through providing HIV and AIDS education, capacity building and advocating for the rights of PLHIV in Timor-Leste.