In a groundbreaking partnership, True My Voice, an initiative founded by internationally renowned poet and digital advocacy strategist Alhan Islam, is reshaping global health narratives through the power of poetry.

A 2024 UN SDG Awards finalist in the Creativity category, True My Voice has joined forces with Devex and the Gates Foundation to spotlight Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)—a widespread but often overlooked public health issue affecting millions worldwide. The initiative uses poetry-driven advocacy to amplify the voices of communities directly impacted by these diseases.

At the AHAIC Connected for Change Conference 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda, this innovative approach took center stage with the showcase of Ominira, a Yoruba-language spoken word piece performed by True My Voice poet Pariolodo. The performance highlighted the impact of localized storytelling in global health advocacy.

Alexander Cabaret, Vice President of Partnerships at Devex, emphasized the significance of this creative approach:

“Our partnership with True My Voice brings the fight against NTDs to life through powerful storytelling in the voices and languages of the communities most affected. It’s a creative force that’s helping Devex and the Gates Foundation reach new audiences, shift the narrative, and drive bold action toward eliminating these diseases by 2030. The response has been incredible—from viral social content to resonating performances on global stages.”

Speaking on this milestone, True My Voice founder Alhan Islam underscored the role of storytelling in advocacy:

“For too long, critical public health conversations have been confined to reports and data. But policy is not just numbers—it’s people, stories, and emotions. Poetry has the power to translate complex health challenges into deeply human experiences that move people from awareness to action.”

Islam’s approach has not only redefined global health communications but also strengthened the creative economy’s role in social impact work.

Beyond storytelling, True My Voice is pioneering a new model for creative advocacy—one that ensures young poets are both heard and economically empowered. The initiative:

Trains young poets in digital advocacy, equipping them with tools to engage in global conversations.

Secures paid storytelling opportunities, ensuring impact-driven content creation is a sustainable career path.

Provides micro-loans and content creation starter packs to support socially conscious creators.

Fosters partnerships aligned with SDGs 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), 8 (Decent Work & Economic Growth), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Arielle, Lead for NTD Policy & Advocacy at the Gates Foundation, highlighted the campaign’s broader mission:

“By integrating poetry into global health discussions, we are making these conversations more accessible, relatable, and ultimately, more powerful. This campaign aims to amplify awareness, address stigma, promote prevention, and foster community dialogue on NTDs.”

As the initiative continues to gain global recognition, True My Voice and Alhan Islam remain dedicated to expanding the intersection of art, policy, and economic empowerment. This partnership is just the beginning of a larger movement—one that elevates creative voices in public health and beyond.