Positive Encounters – Boundless [and] in Solidarity – The Opening Ceremony

We welcome participants to the 23rd Positive Encounters, taking place in Magdeburg for the first time. The theme suggests that we aim to look far beyond our own horizons—starting with the opening event.

We will connect live to Kenya, Turkey, Argentina, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom to learn what issues are affecting people living with HIV in those countries.

Performing for us will be musician and human rights activist Angel Maxine, who advocates for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. She is recognized as Ghana’s first transgender musician and gained international attention for using pop music as a form of resistance against legislation targeting the discrimination of LGBTQ+ people in Ghana.

The Independent Federal Anti-Discrimination Commissioner, Ferda Ataman, will provide her patronage and send a welcome message. Additionally, the Mayor of Magdeburg, Simone Borris, will personally welcome us to her city.

As the host, the Board of the German AIDS Service Organization naturally has the first word—in this case, represented by Sven Warminsky, who also serves as the Managing Director of the local member organization. However, the final word goes to the outstanding team of representatives from the HIV-positive community, who have shaped the content of this conference for you. They now hand over the conference to you with their best wishes.

Sophie Kortenbruck will guide you through the event.