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.
From Brussels to the World: Europe’s Power to Save Lives
From Brussels to the World: Europe’s Power to Save Lives
Investing €800 million in the Global Fund doesn't just prevent and treat deadly diseases - it secures the future for up to 1.2 million people facing AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria.
That's more than the entire population of Brussels. This is the impact of European action.
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.