Silvia Petretti’s journey is one of extraordinary courage and resilience, marked by her determination to reshape how the world perceives HIV and those living with it. Born in Rome, she moved to London in 1987, carrying with her both the trauma of her mother’s passing and a deep sense of purpose. Her life took a dramatic turn in 1997 when, at 30 years old, she was diagnosed with HIV. But rather than letting this diagnosis diminish her, Silvia transformed it into a catalyst for action. She set out on a path not just to survive but to challenge back against the fear, isolation, and stigma that so often surround HIV.

Her activism with Positively UK began in 1999 when she started as a volunteer offering peer support to women in vulnerable positions—many dealing with addiction, incarceration, or the trauma of a new HIV diagnosis. Through this work, Silvia connected with often overlooked individuals, discovering the transformative power of community and visibility. Her experiences allowed her to support these women with empathy and understanding, helping them reclaim their strength and agency.

As her advocacy grew, so did her role in Positively UK. By 2019, Silvia had risen to the position of CEO, steering the organisation with a focus on empowering people living with HIV, particularly women, to take the lead in shaping their futures. She launched initiatives such as PozFem and the SHE+ toolkit, which offer peer support and leadership opportunities to women across Europe, furthering her mission to challenge the status quo and dismantle HIV stigma.

What makes Silvia’s story even more profound is the profoundly personal nature of her work. Having lived with HIV for nearly 29 years, Silvia uses her journey to connect with others who are walking similar paths. She has become a voice not just for herself but for all people living with HIV, advocating on international stages like the World Health Organization to ensure they are seen, heard, and respected. From her early volunteer days to her current leadership, Silvia’s work has always been about creating a more compassionate, inclusive world where HIV is not a source of shame but a call to solidarity and action.