Over the period of November 18-21, the 2011 Caribbean HIV Conference, under the theme "Strengthening Evidence to Achieve Sustainable Action", will be held in Nassau, Bahamas. It aims to sharpen the focus on HIV in the Caribbean, which has the second highest HIV prevalence rate amongst adults. The conference is expected to present findings on new scientific research studies along with different methods of carrying out various techniques and should also aid in skill-building while creating many networking opportunities for meeting new passionate individuals who share the same zeal and ideals towards HIV related events.
The abstract shown below shows one of the abstracts chosen from Jamaica that will be presented at the Conference.

TITLE: HIV PREVENTION THROUGH PERFORMING ARTS IN RURUAL JAMAICA

Introduction
Youth Advocacy Movement (YAM) Jamaica is a group of young people who work in the field of HIV prevention through peer sensitization and community intervention. YAM utilizes drama, song and dance as major methods of disseminating information on healthy social and sexual living. The need for education and sensitization is great as results of the 2008 KABP showed that 61.5% of males and 16.8% of females between the ages of 15-49 reported having multiple sex partners within the last 12 months, but only 64.5% of males and 52.1% claimed they used a condom in their last sexual encounter. This paper will inform attendees on various audiences present in Jamaican communities (such as the domino players, shop keepers, hairdressers, and conservative vs outgoing females), and ideal methods of targeting them. It will also teach attendees how to utilize performing arts as an effective means of relationship building, community sensitization, and social behavioural change in communities.

Experience
While working with YAM, members were trained in advocacy through drama to spread messages about safe sex, HIV testing, having a single sex partner, gender based violence, and drug abuse through song, dance, and drama. They were also taught about the various social sub-groups in various communities, and the best ways and places to target them.

Good Practices
This medium enabled YAM members to discuss the causes of the various risky sexual behaviours and sexuality issues with individuals who refused to come to community centres and clinics. Barriers to sexual health, including condom accessibility and use, and condom negotiation skills were included in performances for follow-up visits to the community. Feedback showed that individuals were now more aware of the responsibility they have for their sexual health, and were now better able to protect themselves, especially following the condom-negotiation drama pieces.

Recommendations
Performing arts was a widely accepted and effective tool of disseminating information in the communities. Individuals who were initially reluctant to speak about sexual health issues were more willing to watch the drama pieces, and listen to the songs, and were more open in asking questions after the performances. Using performing arts is an effective strategy in prevention interventions and social behavioural change initiatives, and is adaptable for use in other communities.