On December 16, The LOFT hosted the TeensLIVE Youth Festival, where the seasoned organizers, experts in HIV and AIDS, extended an invitation to specialists from the “Real World, Real People” Social NGO. The organization's president, Zhenya Mayilyan, along with social workers Tatev Nalbandyan and Mariam Karapetyan, actively participated in the event. As part of the festival, Information Corners addressing HIV and AIDS, mental health, and bullying were set up. Engaging teenagers and young people, information on these topics was imparted through interactive games. Correct responses were rewarded with thematic gifts. Zhenya Mayilyan and Tatev Nalbandyan conducted separate sessions on the topic of HIV and AIDS for teenagers, young people, and their parents.
Initially, participants held misconceptions about HIV and AIDS, which were dispelled through the sessions followed by a question-and-answer session. It's noteworthy and encouraging that the topic of HIV and AIDS is incorporated into such festivals. Providing sex education and accurate information can empower adolescents, young people, and their parents to approach this issue more competently and thoughtfully.