Brazilian transvestite researcher serves as mentor at IAS conference

At the 25th edition of the International AIDS Conference, held in Munich, Germany, the International AIDS Society (IAS) organized a mentoring space for girls and women in science. The initiative was attended by Alícia Krüger, advisor for Inclusion, Diversity and Health Equity Policies at the Brazilian Ministry of Health, who highlighted the historic milestone of being the first transvestite to act as a mentor at the event, an achievement for the LGBT+ community.

“I am thrilled because, for the first time, a trans woman, a transvestite like me, is part of this project as a mentor to other women and girls in science. Today, we have achieved the recognition of a transvestite as a woman in science,” said Krüger.

The mentorship program included other renowned professionals, including Sharon Lewin, president of the IAS; Reena Rajasuriar, from the University of Malaya, Malaysia; and Brenda Crabtree, from the National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition Salvador Zubirán, Mexico. Crabtree emphasized the importance of female representation in science, noting that inspiring role models help overcome personal and professional challenges.

Ruramai Lissa Chisango, a pharmacist from South Africa, participated in the event as a mentee and highlighted the importance of a female perspective in guiding HIV policies and strategies. “Sometimes in a man’s world, it is difficult to understand issues that we face as women, such as discrimination. Being part of this mentorship was inspiring and boosted my confidence,” she said.

The IAS initiative provides a valuable space for the exchange of experiences between established women in the field and those starting their careers, with the aim of strengthening female leadership in HIV research.

By Ezatamentchy