Dr Nicoletta Policek, the Chairperson of UK-CAB and the new Executive Director of the European AIDS Treatment Group (EATG), is a beacon of resilience and advocacy. With 30 years of extensive experience in social and criminal justice, she has dedicated her life to policy, research, systems thinking, management, education, and training. Nicoletta’s work spans diverse geographical and legal settings, where she has revolutionised governmental policies to address human rights violations, focusing on interpersonal violence, sex work, sexual and reproductive rights, prison, and migration/statelessness.

Diagnosed with HIV in the early 1980s, Nicoletta has lived openly with her condition, transforming her journey into a relentless campaign for services, programs, and projects that guarantee access to testing, treatment, care, and support. Since moving to Scotland in 1991, she has been a powerful advocate both locally and nationally, ensuring that the voices of HIV-positive women are not only heard but acted upon.

Throughout her career, Nicoletta has tirelessly worked to improve the relationship between patients and healthcare practitioners. She has led numerous initiatives addressing HIV victimisation, stigma, and discrimination, offering leadership and governance to various HIV charities. Until 2021, she served as the Chairperson of HIV Scotland and is currently a community representative on the BHIVA Guidelines.

Nicoletta’s personal encounters with HIV stigma are a testament to her courage and determination. Recently, during a COVID-19 booster vaccine appointment, a nurse loudly announced, “We have an HIV patient here; can we put her at the end of the list?” In another instance, an anaesthetist suggested she be scheduled to last for a surgical procedure. Nicoletta firmly responded, informing the doctor she has contributed as a community representative to several guidelines with BHIVA. The doctor claimed they needed more time to ensure everything was correct; she insisted they could do so when it was her turn. Her formal complaint to the hospital resulted in an apology with flowers and chocolates, underscoring her unwavering stand against stigma and discrimination.

Nicoletta Policek’s story is one of unyielding strength and commitment to justice, transforming personal adversity into a powerful force for change.