K W O N      L A B

FRESH was established in 2012 as a longitudinal study to address HIV infection and HIV acquisition risk in adolescent girls and young women in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Based in the Umlazi Township of Durban, FRESH recruits groups of 20-30 young HIV negative women (age 18-23) who reside at the epicenter of the HIV pandemic, where 66% of women will contract HIV by the age of 23.

 

FRESH focuses on this population because they have often been overlooked in other studies. These women are followed for 9 months and undergo frequent biological sampling during their enrollment. Participants who acquire HIV during the study are provided early treatment to reduce viral reservoirs. These samples provide vital scientific insight into the earliest stages of HIV infection and the immune response.

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In parallel, FRESH integrates a comprehensive education and empowerment program aimed at addressing structural drivers of HIV risk. Participants attend classes twice weekly throughout the study period in a safe, supportive environment that promotes physical and emotional health, addresses gender-based violence, and provides practical skills training for workforce entry or return to education. Notably, approximately 80% of FRESH graduates secure employment within one year of program completion.