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Storytellers who share their lives to end stigma and fight the HIV Epidemic in Maricopa County
The Voices of Hope speakers bureau is a powerful platform where individuals living with HIV come together to share their personal stories, with the aim of breaking down stigma and increasing awareness and understanding about HIV. These speakers are a diverse and representative group, encompassing a wide spectrum of communities and experiences. By sharing their lived experiences, they contribute to ending the stigma surrounding HIV and promoting a more inclusive and knowledgeable society. Through their brave and impactful storytelling, the Voices of Hope speakers raise awareness about the realities of living with HIV and inspire hope and change in others. Click here to request a speaker for free today.
The impact of the Voices of Hope speakers on society is profound and far-reaching. By sharing their personal stories, these speakers humanize the experience of living with HIV and challenge the existing stigmas and stereotypes associated with the virus. Their stories help to dispel misconceptions and increase understanding about HIV, fostering empathy, compassion, and acceptance.
The Voices of Hope speakers act as powerful educators, bringing attention to the issues faced by individuals living with HIV and promoting the importance of HIV prevention, testing, and treatment. Through their firsthand accounts, they educate communities, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the general public about the realities of HIV, including its impact on daily life, relationships, and mental health.
Moreover, the Voices of Hope speakers inspire hope and resilience in others who may be living with HIV or facing similar challenges. Their stories of overcoming adversity and living fulfilling lives serve as beacons of hope for those who may be struggling with their diagnosis or feeling alone. Through their courage and openness, they empower others to seek support, access resources, and live their lives to the fullest.
Learn more about HIV in Maricopa County here.
Are you currently living with HIV? Now is your opportunity to bring light to common misconceptions and educate your community about the everyday realities of this condition. We encourage you to join the Voices of Hope Speakers Bureau to inspire and inform the public through your personal experience.
With authentic stories, educational presentations and engaging conversations, we can create a more inclusive environment for those living with HIV — and it all starts with courageous individuals like you using your voice for good.
No public speaking experience is needed. We will provide formal presentation training to all participants.
Please contact the Program Coordinator at
Christopher Hoops is a husband, father, and brand-new grandfather. He has traversed the HIV world as a survivor since 1993 and has gone through many trials and tribulations with a positive spirit. He has learned that joy and pain are not mutually exclusive and has joined the speakers bureau to share his story and help others deepen their understanding of what it means to be a long-term survivor with HIV. His new “coming out” experience with his disease is a unique look into the world of HIV stigma and how it affects people’s lives. He has been an improv performer and teacher for over nine years and brings his unique humorous, yet meaningful voice to this format.
“I look forward to helping reduce the stigma that HIV still has in society and helping others become more educated about this disease.”
My name is Jacqueline Field, Jacque for short. I was diagnosed with HIV in 2000 and from then until now, I have been educating myself in HIV prevention and living longer with HIV. I am active in the community, educating, and encouraging self-care and safer HIV sex practices. I am also the co-chair of the Ryan White Part D Community Advisory Board and part of the women’s group at Valleywise Health, and I am excited to be a partner in HIV education and prevention. I am the middle child of three children. I have a brother three years older than me, and a brother five years younger than me. I was born in South Carolina and moved to Arizona as a child. I have three children: two daughters and a son. They are all grown up now and have families of their own, which turned me into a proud grandma of five grandchildren who loves spending time with them.
Sheree was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, where she also birthed and raised her three children. Sheree became an active member of the HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) community and advocated for more than twenty-plus years. Sheree was inspired by those who came before her in their beliefs that education and communication are power. Although she was diagnosed and told she only had ten years to live, she did not let that stop her from living life. Sheree never thought HIV could have happened to her or this would be the life she would be living in addition to the challenges that came with it. For her, some of those were depression, seizure disorder, and getting the proper HIV medication after weight loss surgery. She feels exceedingly fortunate to have made it through these challenges because of treatment, care, and support while pursuing a degree in Public Health for her Bachelor’s. She graduated in December 2021. And continues her journey and gives back to the community that gave to her. Sheree currently works in Substance Abuse and Mental Health field as Case Manager. BHT, and CPSS, Public Health Advocate, Inspirational Speaker/HIV LGBTQ+-Activist.
Laverne Ward was born in Newark, NJ where she attended public school, married, and raised her children. Laverne has two children and eight grandchildren.
After raising her children, she divorced and moved to North Carolina where she met her second husband, who unfortunately preceded her in death. She then relocated to the west coast where she now resides — in Phoenix, AZ. Working in the field of healthcare, Laverne found her passion for serving others.
Laverne joined Positive Women’s Network USA in 2018, where she holds office as co-chair. In her role, she leads training, education and advocacy for HIV awareness and prevention. Laverne’s mission is to support young trans women in becoming leaders in HIV advocacy. In her free time, Laverne enjoys outdoor activities, cooking and just relaxing.
My name is Mark Blocksom. I was diagnosed with as HIV Positive in 1996, just months prior to the first round of the fast-tracked antiretroviral drugs becoming available. I was working as a counselor in a rehabilitation facility for substance abuse when I learned of my diagnosis. It was devastating news to receive because at that time, having HIV was still considered a death sentence. Although there were promising ARVs already manufactured, the first doctor I saw suggested that I think about getting my affairs in order. After that, I went through the process of educating myself about HIV. I wanted to know what my options were and better understand how to be in a serodiscordant relationship as I just started dating someone. Initially, my partner had reservations about staying in a relationship with me. We ended up going through relationship counseling to help her come to the decision to stay with me and understand how things could work out.
Amidst all the life changes I experienced; I continued my work in substance use support services as well as volunteered with Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation (SAAF). I became an educator and activist with the HIV/AIDS community and was later hired on as SAAF’s Wellness Program Coordinator. I managed the Ryan White programs: MAP (Medication Assistance Program), DAP (Dental Assistance Program), and Complementary Therapies Program. I became engaged in the community helping with AIDS Walk and organizing other fundraising events and doing public speaking and educational events. My connections to the community and the support I received were critical for me coming to terms with my illness. I experienced many adverse side effects associated with the early ARVs available to me and struggled with quality-of-life issues.
At one point, life became overwhelming which subsequently led me to a relapse and other high-risk activities. I ended up going to prison and was in the Arizona Department of Corrections (ADOC) for 19 out of the past 20 years. While incarcerated, I encountered discrimination and stigma associated with being HIV-positive. After disclosing my positive HIV status, I was verbally threatened, physically attacked, and forced to relocate to other prison yards. Since my release 14 months ago, I became involved with the community again as a positive voice. I anticipate sharing my 28-year journey in hopes of educating others about prevention, reducing the stigma of HIV, and providing insight on how to make positive life choices.
Meet Marcellus Toro, the vibrant and enthusiastic Program Specialist for CAN Community Health, where he/they work tirelessly to make a positive impact in the community. Armed with a knack for problem-solving, a dash of creativity, and a boatload of positivity, he/they tackle his/their work with gusto. When not busy conquering his/their field of expertise, you can find Marcellus sweating it out at the gym, sculpting his way to fitness goals. Beyond work and workouts, he/they love exploring new cafes for the perfect cup of tea, cracking jokes with friends, and spreading joy wherever he/they go!
In his/their downtime, Marcellus indulges in his/their love for anime, diving headfirst into captivating storylines and fantastical worlds. An unabashed anime nerd, he/they can often be found binge-watching the latest series or passionately discussing plot twists and character development with fellow enthusiasts. Additionally, Marcellus is deeply fascinated by the occult and spiritualism, finding solace and inspiration in exploring the mysteries of the universe. With a heart full of curiosity and a spirit brimming with enthusiasm, Marcellus embraces life’s adventures, both big and small, with open arms.
