1 September 2010:
BONELA Director to Receive International Award

The Director of the Botswana Network on Ethics, Law and HIV/ AIDS (BONELA) has been named a 2010 Junior Chamber International Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World (JCI TOYP) recipient in the category of contribution to children, world peace and/or human rights. This award is in honour of his extraordinary work on human rights for people living with HIV and AIDS.

Ndadi, who is among 10 recipients of this award and one of only two Africans will be honoured at a ceremony to be held on Wednesday, November 3 at the JCI World Congress in Osaka, Japan.

BONELA Chairperson, Tshiamo Rantao, said the organization is proud to have at its helm a dedicated and world acclaimed leader who is passionate about the plight of those who are infected and affected by HIV/AIDS as well as those that are ostracized by society due to their sexual orientation. He added that “Uyapo is a dynamic, passionate and motivated young man, who has pushed the limits of what is possible for his generation to achieve in the realm of human rights and HIV and AIDS. BONELA is very proud of him and hope he will continue in his pursuit of justice for the marginalized.”

Part of Ndadi’s citation for the award reads: “Ndadi has challenged preexisting stigmas and pushed for increased equality among all Batswana, regardless of medical condition or sexual preference. By working with BONELA, Ndadi advocated policy changes within the government that abolished employment discrimination based on HIV status. He is also fighting Botswana’s decision to deny foreigners and inmates antiretroviral drugs for HIV and AIDS. Being a member of the National AIDS Council, Ndadi has used his experience and success to advocate policy changes in front of a broad audience. He has been featured throughout Botswana on radio and television programs, speaking on sensitive issues and legal matters, including HIV/AIDS and recently participated in a panel discussion organized by JCI Botswana about HIV and human rights policy. His advocacy for those affected by HIV/AIDS is a challenging journey as he strives to provide medical interventions to all in need.”

JCI (Junior Chamber International) honors ten outstanding young people under the age of 40 each year. These individuals exemplify the spirit of the JCI Mission and provide extraordinary service to their communities. Whether through service, innovation, determination or revolutionary thinking, these young active citizens create positive impacts in their communities.