By Thomas Abidoye
US-born sex educator and HIV advocate, Zora Barnwell, popularly known as Zoravoyce, has urged people living with HIV to love themselves and be open about their health status, noting that self-acceptance is key to confidence and a better life.
Zoravoyce made this known during an exclusive virtual interview with Thomas Abidoye on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
Zoravoyce
The educator, who revealed that she was born with HIV, said she discovered her status at the age of nine.
She explained that being public about her condition helped her build self-confidence, despite facing stigma and negative perceptions from others.
Zoravoyce
According to her, living with HIV does not define anyone’s sex life, stressing that intimacy remains a natural and beautiful part of life.
She added that with proper care, communication, and necessary precautions, people living with HIV can still enjoy healthy sexual relationships.
Zoravoyce, who began her HIV and STD awareness campaign in 2020, highlighted that her mission is to ensure people receive proper sexual education before engaging in sexual activity.
The sex educator emphasized that everyone, especially those living with HIV, needs to be conscious of sexually transmitted diseases.
Zoravoyce
She noted that one of her major challenges in the advocacy journey is funding, as she prefers not to rely on big organizations to avoid being influenced or used to push misleading narratives in the media.
The activist also pointed out that gaining acceptance within minority communities, especially among black populations, has been difficult, as many people often prioritize financial survival over conversations about sexual health and education.
Zoravoyce said she has contributed significantly to her community through awareness programs and support for people living with HIV.
She added that she plans to contest a political position in her New York community in the future but is currently focused on her HIV advocacy.