AIDS Dinner gets youth ambassador

Stage actress Jasmine Certoma has been named the Youth Ambassador for the World AIDS Day Dinner at Sydney’s Paddington Town Hall on December 1.

Event director Eric Nair said Certoma reflected the young and indiscriminatory face of HIV/AIDS and the important role of youth in breaking down the stigma that was once associated with it.

Certoma has starred in theatre productions in the UK and Australia and teaches acting in Sydney schools — giving her exposure to future stars of the stage and screen, and the ability to increase social awareness of HIV/AIDS among the next generation.

As an active member of the LGBTI community, Certoma said she had a personal interest in HIV/AIDS awareness and community projects throughout Australia.

“People with HIV/AIDS should not feel socially isolated and vilified in 2011,” Certoma said.

“I am incredibly proud to bring a new face to HIV/AIDS support and totally eliminate the negative prejudice that people once had.”