Cafe Positive: Giving HIV+ Communities a Shot in Life

About This Project

Summary

Our Better World, the storytelling platform of the Singapore International Foundation, features people creating a positive impact in Asia to inspire action. Through the voices of HIV-positive staff employed at Kolkata social enterprise Cafe Positive, our film gives viewers a glimpse of the social stigma they face. It also shows how gainful employment as frontline service staff can help break down negative perceptions of these individuals and enable them to live in dignity.

Goals & Objectives

The film seeks to raise awareness as well as encourage support and empathy for HIV-positive individuals. The narrative underscores Cafe Positive's grounding belief — that if we act with compassion and conviction, we can break the stigma blighting this marginalised group.

Results & Impact

The film garnered more than 3 million views, and over 1500 people took action after viewing it. Cafe Positive also shared feedback on its positive outcome, including a heightened awareness of their initiative.