HomeNews & stories‘Not all super heroes wear capes’ – the story of Peaches
HomeNews & stories‘Not all super heroes wear capes’ – the story of Peaches
‘Not all super heroes wear capes’ – the story of Peaches
Last updated on: 27 August 2025
Peaches, a peer educator from Johannesburg, shares her powerful journey from surviving abuse and criminalisation to becoming a source of support and hope for others. This video was created through a participatory process, with Peaches having full creative control over what to share and how to share it. She chose the format and content herself, ensuring the story reflects her voice, experiences, and journey.
The story of Peaches
Her story sheds light on the realities of sex work in South Africa, the violence many face, and the importance of rights, dignity, and community. Through her work, Peaches helps others access health services, report violations, and build safer lives. “You know what they say, not all superheroes wear capes, and I feel like that is me.” Meet Peaches!
The Hands Off programme
70% of sex workers in Southern Africa report experiencing violence. Reducing violence can lower their risk of HIV by 25%. Through the Hands Off programme, Aidsfonds and its partners in Southern Africa work towards supportive laws and protective services, care and support to secure the safety and wellbeing of sex workers – ultimately reducing their risk of HIV. The programme is funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Mozambique.
330 organisations call for EC pledge ahead of Global Fund board meeting
330 organisations call for EC pledge ahead of Global Fund board meeting
On November 21, donors fell short of the Global Fund’s USD 18 billion target - a disappointing outcome at a time when increased support for HIV, TB and malaria is urgently needed.
Now, 330 organisations worldwide are urging the European Commission to confirm a €800 million pledge ahead of the February 2026 Board Meeting. This would help ensure timely funding for country programmes and unlock €400 million in US matching funds.
The Nov. 21 outcome fell short, but a stronger result is still possible - and the European Commission and EU Member States can play a key role, in line with Europe’s leadership in global health.
Identification of children for HIV treatment: Call for proposals 2026-2028
Identification of children for HIV treatment: Call for proposals 2026-2028
This open call for proposals invites community-based partners, medical institutions and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to implement effective evidence-based approaches and interventions to reach new children and adolescents living with HIV (0-14) through testing and linking to anti-retroviral treatment and care in Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania and Nigeria.