On the 26th and the 27th of March 2025, middle and high school students gathered at the Sexual Wellness & HIV Health Fair, an event intended to educate youth about the importance of sexual wellness and STI prevention. Over two days, we had the privilege of reaching approximately 650 students, showcasing the diversity of Suriname’s youth. They came from urban and interior regions of Suriname, highlighting the wide reach and inclusivity. At the Fair, attendees engaged in interactive activities, discussions, and learning experiences designed to provide them with knowledge, awareness, and tools to make informed decisions about their sexual health.
From left to right: Yagee Jahmay Gill speaking about various STIs and
Yagees Chevurcely Pika, Latifa Houthakker and Jahmay Gill
At the YAG booth, we created an interactive and engaging space where students could learn through games and quizzes. We began by introducing our organization and its mandates, emphasizing the importance of consent, family planning, and making informed decisions when choosing a partner.
One of the highlights of the booth was our condom demonstration, where students learned about proper condom use and its role in preventing hiv and other STIs. We also had an open discussion on STIs, including their symptoms, transmission, and prevention, to debunk myths and break the stigma around sexual health conversations.
To encourage personal reflection, students wrote down qualities they look for in an ideal partner—both physical traits and character attributes. This exercise led to deeper conversations about choosing a partner wisely, recognizing red flags in relationships, and understanding the role of mutual respect and communication in a healthy relationship.
Knowledge Through Play: Kahoot Quiz & Student Engagement
One of the most exciting moments at the booth was the Kahoot quiz, where students and visitors competed in a fun and educational game to test their knowledge about sexual health, consent, and rights and had the chance to win fun prizes from UNFPA. The participants shared their enthusiasm, expressing how much they enjoyed learning in this interactive format. Many stated that they had gained new knowledge about their rights, the importance of consent in relationships, and the realities of sexual health.
During the event, we shared a shocking statistic:
In Suriname, at least one girl aged 10-14 gives birth every week, totaling approximately 52 young mothers per year—and this number only accounts for live births, not pregnancies.
This information sparked significant conversations among both students and adults about the need for open discussions on sexual health at home. Parents and educators reflected on the importance of talking to children about sex, including biological aspects, proper terminology for private parts, and reproductive health.
We emphasized that Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) plays a crucial role in ensuring that young people are equipped with the correct information to make safe, informed choices. CSE helps reduce teen pregnancies, prevent unwanted pregnancies, and empower youth to excel in their education and future aspirations.
Creating a Future of Informed & Empowered Youth
The Sexual Wellness & HIV Health Fair was eye-opening, engaging, and impactful. Through interactive activities, educational discussions, and authentic conversations, young people retain valuable knowledge to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.
By continuing to create safe spaces for dialogue and education, we can work together to eradicate stigma, prevent early pregnancies, and empower youth to lead healthier, more informed lives. The fair was a fantastic initiative, I'm sure the attendees are already looking forward to the next edition!
