Mary Joy a local, non-government organization that works on general care and support for people living with HIV/AIDS was one of the finalist for the red ribbon award given at Toronto International AIDS Conference. "Red Ribbon Award: Celebrating Community Leadership and Action on AIDS" is an inaugural award, which is integrated into and prominently featured at the conference.
The award, organized by UNDP in partnership with UNAIDS provides a unique opportunity to support and publicize the most outstanding and least recognized actors who are finding innovative and effective ways to address HIV/AIDS and secure livelihoods around the world.
Mary Joy established in 1994, has been successful in providing economic support to people living with HIV/AIDS through a range of income generating projects. The organization works on a variety of projects and has approximately 100 care providers who offer home-based care on a volunteer basis. Mary Joy also provides vital support to orphans and children.
Konjit Taye who covered the AIDS conference talked to Mary Joy founder and director, Zebider Zewde along with community leaders Gette Abebe and Legesse Anore. (Listen to the interview in Amharic)
