BENGALURU: For many, an HIV diagnosis may feel like the end of normalcy, but in Bangalore, it’s an inspiring transformation through sport. Founded in 2008 by sports management expert Elvis Joseph, Champion in Me empowers children living with HIV to break through stigma and embrace inclusivity.
What started with just 20 children has now supported over 3,000 individuals across Karnataka. Although Elvis originally focused on immunity and psychosocial needs, he recognized children’s potential in sports. “They went from being spectators to being competitors, and that changed everything,” he said.
TOI spoke to several HIV-positive runners ahead of the Inclusive Sports Meet 2024 to be held here on Sunday.
marathon runner
Sanjay, a 20-year-old runner from Ramnagar, has run over 50 marathons around the world and overcome prejudice and discrimination. Despite being rejected by society and his family, sports became his sanctuary, teaching him discipline, resilience and self-respect. “HIV is just a health condition. You can live a normal life,” he says. Currently working as a human resources professional, Sanjay aims to become India’s Youth Ambassador to raise awareness about HIV and prove that determination, not diagnosis, determines one’s identity .
push the limits
Manik, a 24-year-old runner from Bidar, has turned social prejudice into a triumphant story by competing in global marathons in Boston, Thailand and Sri Lanka. Manik, who represented India at the International Children’s Games in the Netherlands in 2015, demonstrated the transformative power of sports. “Sports has given me the strength to prioritize my health and build my future,” he says. Beyond his law firm role, Manik actively fights HIV-related discrimination and advocates for improved social education and government initiatives.
How fast can you run?
Sonica, a 25-year-old from Bangalore, balances her full-time job as a call center employee with her true passion: running. She recently won third place in the Kolkata Marathon, which she calls her “biggest achievement”. But Sonica’s story isn’t just about running, it’s also about breaking down barriers. “Sport has given me an equality that I don’t always find in other places. At work and in society people judge you, but on the track it’s all about how fast you run,” she says. She lost her parents to HIV, was diagnosed with the disease, and became an orphan. She said, “Despite being infected with HIV, I am standing tall. “Sports unites us and gives us hope,” she declares, urging others to reject judgment and embrace resilience.
Sports taught her to fight back
For Malava, a 20-year-old from Belagavi, sports became a means of fighting back. Her passion expanded to basketball, football, and ball throwing, where she found joy and discovered her independence and strength. She also continues to challenge prejudice, saying, “This disease is not spread by touching or being close to someone. Still, discrimination persists.” Mahlabva won his first major marathon in Ranipet, Tamil Nadu, igniting his dream of becoming a leader for people living with HIV and an activist for inclusion through sport.
it’s free to run
When Ashwini was just 18 years old, she ran a blistering 10 kilometers in Jerusalem in 50 minutes. “Running gives me a sense of freedom and keeps me healthy and active. Running gives me a purpose to live and love,” Ashwini said. But life threw hurdles in front of her. Since 2019, she has been away from the circuit due to family restrictions. Ashwini, who currently lives in Bidar, has not given up on her passion and is making a comeback. “I want to get back on the track, train and run,” she said.
