Fighting TB, One Story at a Time: A Conversation Between Two Advocates

On World TB Day, we bring you a conversation between two inspiring women, Ani Herna Sari from Indonesia and Olya Klymenko from Ukraine. Both mothers, both TB survivors, and both tireless advocates, Ani and Olya have dedicated themselves to fighting stigma, supporting their communities, and ensuring no one faces TB alone. Here, they share their journeys, what drives them, and the vital role communities play in the fight against TB.

Ani: Olya, I always find it so interesting how we both came into advocacy not because we planned to, but because of what we went through. For me, having survived both drug sensitive and drug-resistant TB, I saw how damaging stigma can be. People don’t just fight the disease, they fight judgment, misinformation, and isolation. That’s why I started speaking out.

Olya: I couldn’t agree more. When I completed my treatment, I felt somewhat lost about the future. Finishing treatment and returning to an active life, these are different stages, especially in the context of tuberculosis. Because I was fighting post treatment depression, I started talking to other people who were still on their path to recovery, supporting and motivating them. With the support of the Global Fund, we managed to grow from an informal group of “people who overcame the disease” into a strong patient community with established partnerships at the national level and real opportunities to help thousands of people currently facing TB. I never set out to become an advocate, I sincerely wanted to help people and change something to reduce suffering. And it was through this path of support and care that I eventually became an advocate for change.

Ani: That’s the power of community, isn’t it? When people come together, support one another, and push for change, we see real progress, whether it’s breaking stigma, improving services, or ensuring dignity for those affected by TB. In this difficult global health landscape, I find so much hope in how more survivors are speaking out, challenging stigma, and changing the way people see TB. We know how isolating and challenging the journey can be, especially with the discrimination many of us face. Every story shared and every stigma challenged brings us one step closer to a world where no one has to suffer in silence. Every time someone shares their story; it chips away at the fear and shame that surround this disease.

Every time someone shares their story; it chips away at the fear and shame that surround this disease.

Olya: Absolutely! And for me, hope is also personal, my hope comes from Nadiya, , which means hope in Ukrainian, that’s the name of my younger daughter, who is almost three years old and my older daughter Vera, short for Veronika, meaning faith in victory. My inspiration is the future in which our children will live. There are so many tragedies and injustices around us that are hard to change, but tuberculosis is a disease of social inequality, and it is also curable, so we can change this. My children and the thousands of people who are fighting for change today, they are my hope and motivation.

Ani: And we are changing it. When I see someone who once felt unheard finally share their story, or when a person facing TB gets the support they need, I know our advocacy is making a difference. One of my proudest moments was when another survivor, who was too afraid to speak up, finally found the courage after seeing me do it.

Olya: I’m so proud of how much our communities have been able to achieve. Just look at how much the fight against TB has transformed! With the support of the Global Fund and others, we’ve built real programs that provide not just treatment, but dignity and rights for people with TB. Our community-led monitoring programs provide a unique evidence base for improving services and policies. Today, people with TB have real opportunities to seek help when they need it. And believe me, that is a significant achievement over the past ten years. We’re proving that those of us affected by TB aren’t just patients, we’re experts in this fight.

Ani: Exactly. That’s why I always tell new advocates, your voice matters. You don’t have to be an expert in policy. Your experience, your story, and your willingness to speak up are powerful tools for change. Advocacy is not about knowing everything, it’s about standing up for those who feel unheard. We know that change starts with courage. Keep learning, keep sharing, and never be afraid to challenge misconceptions. Even small actions can make a big difference. You are not alone in this journey, and together, we can create a world with less stigma and more support for those affected by TB.

Olya: I agree. Be brave and persistent. We still have a lot of work to do, and TB remains a challenge for humanity. So don’t be afraid to take action. Unite your efforts, strengthen collaboration, encourage investment in healthcare and social policy programs and then, together, somewhere in the future, we will all be able to say the long-awaited and cherished words: Yes, we have defeated tuberculosis!