At AIDS 2024, I had the profound privilege of meeting an extraordinary individual, Aryelle Freeman. In a moment of courage, I approached her to ask if I could photograph her and share the story behind the documentary I am creating about People Living with HIV. I assured her that her HIV status was not something I needed to know; I wanted to capture her essence through a portrait.

Aryelle, now 43, shared that this was her first time publicly discussing her HIV journey. She revealed that at the tender age of twelve while living in Jamaica, she experienced childhood trauma, an ordeal she had never disclosed to her mother. Aryelle believes that speaking about her trauma can provide solace and strength to others facing similar challenges.

As a child, Aryelle dreamed of becoming a doctor. However, discovering her HIV status altered her path, and she redirected her aspirations towards helping others. She began volunteering at the first AIDS hospice and has since become an influential advocate for HIV awareness and prevention. Known also as Aryelle Foster, she serves on the board of Global Black Gay Men Connect (GBGMC), where she significantly contributes to HIV prevention efforts for key European populations.

Aryelle’s work centres on dismantling HIV stigma and educating others about PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) to prevent HIV transmission. Through her platform as a performer and model, she raises awareness and combats the stigma surrounding HIV. She masterfully integrates activism into her drag performances, using her stage presence to deliver powerful messages of hope and resilience to those living with HIV.

Her dedication extends beyond the stage; Aryelle actively participates in conferences and global initiatives to end HIV/AIDS. Her advocacy highlights the necessity of inclusive healthcare practices and ensuring access to preventive measures like PrEP for all at-risk populations, irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, or ethnic background.

Aryelle Freeman Hopelezz, or Aryelle Foster, is a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community, renowned for her tireless work in HIV prevention and advocacy for marginalised groups. As a board member of the KP Advisory Group of GBGMC, she focuses on HIV prevention within key European populations, emphasising the intersectionality of race, gender, and sexuality and highlighting the unique experiences of Black and trans individuals.

A distinguished performer with the House of Hopelezz, Aryelle is celebrated for her avant-garde and inclusive approach to drag and performance art. She has participated in significant events and discussions, such as the “Black Joy” screening at The Black Archives, exploring themes of Black liberation and its resonance with trans identities. Additionally, she is a frequent speaker at educational events like “Queerness Throughout History,” where she delves into the historical and cultural perspectives of queerness from a non-white viewpoint.

Aryelle’s journey and advocacy inspire many, reminding us of the power of resilience, the importance of community support, and the unyielding spirit of those fighting against HIV stigma daily.