The first Latino to win in the “Project Runway” franchise talks about the stigmas of HIV in the Latino community and how his new partnership with Merck can help those affected with the disease build healthy relationships with their doctors.
When designer Mondo Guerra first announced he was HIV positive, it was during one of the episodes of Project Runway’s Season 8. Although producers were aware of his health condition, it was agreed not to bring it up during the show. But something inside Guerra made him release the information that he had been hiding from his family for almost ten years. At that time, it was not his desire to be a poster boy for HIV awareness. He himself was just learning to live with the disease, so being an advocate for it was not in his plans.
But life has a funny way of playing things out. Now, the Latino designer is just that—a spokesperson for an HIV awareness campaign that encourages open communication between patients and doctors. In partnership with Merck, Project I Design allows Guerra to make public appearances where he shares his personal journey with the disease. As spokesperson for the campaign, Guerra also encourages those affected by HIV to visit Projectidesign.com for information on how to find the right treatment plan and tips on how to live a fulfilling life with HIV.
Just recently, the Latino designer talked to a group of youth at the City of Hope’s Sixth Annual HIV/AIDS Action Summit in Duarte. This fall, his designs will be available at Neiman Marcus. He’s also helping choose contestants for the new season of Project Runway. So I’d say that Merck found the ideal poster boy to get people who are HIV positive on a health plan to combating the disease and ultimately live a fulfilling, healthy life. Guerra shares his story with us below.
Interview with Mondo Guerra
What made you sign on to Project I Design?
It’s my responsibility to share my story because I think a lot of people can learn from my mistakes. When I was first diagnosed I wasn’t taking care of myself. I had to hit rock bottom before I realized that I needed to combat the disease and take responsibility for my own health. So when Merck approached me about doing the Project I Design campaign it was an immediate yes for me. I completely identify with its’ mission to promote communication, conversation and participation between patient and doctor, and I think this is my opportunity to prevent others from making my mistakes.
Why do you think so many members of the Latino community make excuses to not see their doctors?
Because we grow up with certain traditions and ideas. In my case, it took me a while to snap out of denial and tackle the issue. But when I did, I made it a point to talk with my doctor about everything and really take care of myself in general.
How do you suggest Latino families start the dialogue about prevention and care?
Being a Latino male, I was brought up in a very traditional home. HIV was never even brought up as a topic of conversation. Even then I always thought it was just a gay thing but it’s not; it doesn’t discriminate against race, sex, etc. So it was very difficult to talk about it, which is why I didn’t tell them for years.There was that sense e of embarrassment and shame so I understand the fear of talking about it. But families need to be as open about the issue as soon as possible so that they can begin to take the proper care. It really does begin with that one conversation.
And then there’s also emotional care…
Yes. One of the questions I get asked frequently is “what do you say to someone who has just been diagnosed?”, and speaking from personal experience, the best thing you can do for that person at that time is let them know that they are still loved and that they still have self worth. They need to be surrounded by people they can trust and by people they can be honest with.
How does all of this play a role in your work as a designer?
Well, to start, my collection is all about honesty. What drives my designs is the same honesty that liberated me when I announced my being positive. My designs are also minimal, beautiful, sophisticated, functional and approachable. It’s all about individualism and giving people the freedom to play with what they already have in their wardrobe. It’s about finding who you are through fashion and being completely comfortable with it. It’s very pop-ish as well, even though I’m more into rock.
Really, what type of rock?
Classic rock. I love David Bowie! I know its kind of strange but classic rock really drives me. I often get asked what designers inspire me, but for me it’s more about the music.
For more info check out Projectidesign.com
