Open Paths Athens is delighted to share the exceptional achievements of the Mi-Health HIV Partnership, of which we are a dedicated participant, at the Gilead Community Awards 2023 held in Madrid, Spain. The Partnership emerged victorious in both the Impact and People's Choice categories, marking a significant milestone for our collective efforts.
Impact Award: Shaping Health Equity Through Targeted Initiatives
Open Paths Athens played a crucial role within the Mi-Health HIV Partnership, contributing to the Impact Award. This recognition underscores our success in engaging "hard-to-reach" migrant populations for HIV testing and care. The meticulous data collection efforts have revealed critical disparities in healthcare and social determinants for migrants in precarious circumstances. Utilizing these insights, we have been at the forefront of data-driven advocacy, launching a position paper, and presenting our findings at esteemed international conferences.
People's Choice Award: Peer Recognition for Open Paths Athens
Voted by event attendees, the People's Choice award signifies the preference for the Mi-Health HIV Partnership among 16 finalists. This accolade affirms our commitment to delivering culturally sensitive services and overcoming challenges to positively impact migrant communities in Athens and beyond. It is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team in addressing the unique health needs of migrant populations.
Joint Statement from Mi-Health HIV Partnership: "We are elated to receive the Impact and People's Choice awards for our collaborative work within the Mi-Health HIV Partnership. These accolades validate the concerted efforts of  Mi-Health HIV Partnership in our diverse communities. We extend our gratitude to Gilead for their unwavering support, commitment to health equity, and for providing us with a platform to address the common challenges facing migrants in Athens."
Judicial Recognition: Open Paths Athens' Strategic Approach
Judges specifically commended Open Paths Athens for its strategic approach in addressing critical issues faced by migrants at risk of or living with HIV. Establishing local partnerships and initiating precise outcomes and program monitoring from the project's inception were highlighted as exemplary practices.
Charities Aid Foundation Recognition
We are proud to have been recognized by independent judges from the Charities Aid Foundation for this award – it speaks to the collective power of our Partnership and demonstrates the need for a more coherent approach to addressing the HIV-related needs and health outcomes of migrants across Europe.
Gratitude and Commitment to Excellence
We express our sincere appreciation to Gilead for their continuous support, reinforcing our commitment to health equity. These awards underscore the impactful role of Open Paths Athens in addressing shared challenges and promoting positive health outcomes for migrant populations in Athens and across borders.