History of the course

This method has been used by over 600 peer educators in companies such as Mercedes Benz S.A. Pty (Ltd), McCain Foods Pty (Ltd), S.A. Metals Pty (Ltd), Dairy belle Pty (Ltd) and Meadow Feeds Pty (Ltd). The approach has also been used by Aids Response, health care workers working for TB/HIV Care Association, Ma Afrikatikkun and other NPO’s in their peer education and community outreach programmes. The HWSETA awarded Call the Rain cc an ISOE grant because of this learning method’s unique outcomes in order to build into its success and expand its base of trained storyteller facilitators.

The assessment process

In order to successfully complete the course the following is required of learners:

• Conduct at least three storyteller workshops in classroom time where they prove proficiency in exploring the effects of HIV and TB in story.

• Complete a Portfolio of Evidence out of class time and document that they have told at least 100 people the One Bokkie Story©.

• Document in their Portfolio of Evidence their experiences in conducting this unique behavioural change method which will then be assessed for competency.

This learning as accredited against the following unit standards US 14656: Demonstrate an understanding of sexuality and sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS. NQF level 1 (5 credits) US 119560: promote an awareness of sexually Transmitted infections (STI’s) in the community. NQF level 1 (2 credits) US 116999: Apply accurate information about HIV & AIDS to everyday life. NQF level 1 (5 credits) US 119564: Assist the community to access services in accordance with their health related human rights NQF level 1( 5 credits) US 119561: Support clients who are receiving Anti-Retroviral Treatment (ART) NQF level 1(6 credits) US 117017: Provide information about Tuberculosis and directly observed treatment (DOTS) NQF level 1(3 credits) Outcomes A person who completes this learning program me will be able to facilitate small group discussion around HIV/Aids and the need for testing: ARV adherence; the relationship between HIV/Aids and TB; as well as PMTCT. The qualified learner will be able to in story explain: The concept sexuality; describe the nature, transmission and prevention of sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS, Explain how HIV/ Aids can be prevented and treated. This would include mother to child transmission, the relationship between Aids and TB, as well as ARV adherence The listening group will be able to appreciate the rights of individuals living with HIV/ Aids and other sexually transmitted infections as well as develop means to cope and deal with sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS The story method helps people understand how HIV/Aids are affecting communities and their individual role in combatting HIV by decreasing societal stigma. Who should attend? This learning is particularly suited to health educators, peer educators, and those in the training field who need a fresh approach to HIV/ Aids Awareness training Training material includes a story kit, course notes and a portfolio of evidence.

Some comments from storyteller facilitators:

Elizebeth:

“ Before becoming a storyteller I viewed people living with HIV as being ‘somewhere out there’, far removed from me. I realised during storytelling however how this has changed, for now they were sitting in front of me and next to me. They were is some cases my audience or loved ones, connected to the audience. And they were like me – who in my youth engaged in irresponsible sexual behaviour. They literally became my brothers and sisters.

Becoming more knowledgeable and aware of HIV itself, I necessarily had to become more aware of those living with HIV during storytelling. I realised I could make a difference in the lives of those affected with HIV – and in the lives of their neighbours, family, friends, co-workers etc. It was very powerful to me.

I truly found that HIV is an “equaliser”. I told the “One Bokkie” story to deaf students, hearing youth, black, coloured, white people, working and unemployed people. The “One Bokkie” story was absolutely effective for all audiences – the questions, fears and misbeliefs were the same throughout – plus the stories that audiences related to about loved ones and acquaintances living with HIV shared the same thread of sadness, yet incredible courage and bravery. I realised that even with HIV and TB, we are all more alike than we are different.”

Mandisa:

“After telling the story to a group of Mozambican young men on a campus it opened the way for us to discuss and engage on the issues of HIV/AIDS. I was surprised when I received a call from one of those individuals to say that after the conversation he had gone to get tested. He said, ‘thank you for making this thing so real, the characters felt as if I knew them and I did not want to end up the same.’ The transformative power of the story in that context left me in awe.

This has helped me to realise that although there is a lot of information about HIV/AIDS people are still not aware of what they need to do. It has helped me to understand some of the challenges they are faced with a lot better.”