The XVI International AIDS Conference is now in full swing. The organizers are using different forums for spreading the word about AIDS education. Getting the message to youth is also a big part of this event. The AIDS 2006 Youth Site has many events at this conference for teens. In addition to using music, blogs and celebrity voices, the conference has also include fashion as a way to engage young people.

Fashioning Change is a fashion show that features clothing made by youth and presents inspiring messages involving HIV and AIDS issues. There should be some interesting designs as the website says some items are "fashionably absurd." Absurd huh, that sounds like the good stuff to me. I found an article at The Toronto Star that mentions a dress that doubles as a petition. In this show the designers are the models.

Over 40 youths from Toronto, India and China are working with YouthCare and organizer Jennifer Hollett, a former MuchMusic VJ. She was took inspiration from HIV awareness clothing she saw in East Africa while filming a documentary for YouthCare. Hollett says, "Fashioning Change is an opportunity for youth to make a fashion statement while spreading the word about HIV and AIDS."

Public Show (Free!)
Tuesday, August 15, 2006, 12:00 - 1:00 pm
Yonge-Dundas Square (Dundas St. at Yonge St.)
Toronto, On

Conference Programme Show (Only Delegates)
Wednesday, August 16, 12:45 - 1:45 pm
Metro Toronto Convention Centre
Global Village, Youth Pavilion
Toronto, On

YouthCare - The purpose of YouthCARE is to educate Canadian youth about the issues faced by their peers in developing countries. YouthCARE aims at empowering Canadian teens to make a difference in their immediate communities and ultimately in the world.