Panch
Panch
Occupation: Community Educator
Location: Mexico City, Mexico
The Sex in My Business: I’m the coordinator of the Community Education and Engagement Unit for Infectious Diseases at the Salvador Zubirán National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition. I facilitate projects on human rights, HIV/AIDS, youth development, and sexual education. HIV and STI prevention are intrinsically linked to our sexual lives. When I teach and facilitate sessions, I focus on risk reduction, yet instead of preaching about fear and guilt, I talk about self-care, self-love, and pleasure. Another aspect of my work is community outreach, and I organize programs in places where people are selling sex, which distribute condoms, masks, and hand sanitizers to sex workers in need.
A Typical Day: When I arrive at the HIV Clinic in the morning, I check emails, and send documents. Afterward, I plan and host community activities, where I interact with clients and HIV studies participants.
The Best Part: I truly enjoy engaging with people in the community, hearing their concerns, and connecting them to the healthcare services appropriate to their needs. It’s a pleasure to help people.
The Worst Part: Engaging with the complex healthcare system in Mexico can be frustrating and difficult. There are three public healthcare institutions in the country, each with its own regulations, services, and resources. This can be extremely confusing, and that sometimes prevents people from accessing the help and support they need.
How I Got Here: I've been in the field of human rights and sexual education for a large chunk of my adult life. I initially worked with NGOs and other government institutions, until I took a position at the University of Washington satellite program in Mexico, where I focused on LGBT communities and public health. After three years, I received an offer to be part of the HIV research team at my current place of work.
What Society Thinks: Some people think it’s difficult to work with HIV patients because of their pain and suffering. Pain and sadness are, indeed, sometimes a part of having HIV/STIs, but there’s also resilience, community support, love, and a thirst for life in many of the people I work with.
When I’m Not at Work: During my downtime, I like to watch movies, cook, and explore new places. I also enjoy reading.
Published in Issue X: Clash of Ideologies