"I want people to know that those living with HIV are no different from anyone else. We have the same rights to dream and achieve our goals”
|Algin shared his inspiring story with the Homeless World Cup Foundation of battling stigma, finding strength in sports, and chasing his dreams. Image: Anita Milas
Behind the action at the Seoul 2024 Homeless World Cup where Indonesia's Homeless World Cup team were involved in the 19th edition of this incredible tournament lies the extraordinary story of Algin Mawani.
Indonesia had a wonderful experience in Seoul, both on and off the pitch, creating new friends and demonstrating the power of football to create a lasting change, especially around the narrative of homelessness. They were involved in a thrilling semi-final with England, which displayed all the attributes that make the Homeless World Cup so special – goals, dramatic moments and at the end, sportsmanship.
The Indonesia team finished 4th in the Homeless World Cup Men’s competition and were one of the most entertaining teams to watch at the tournament, the first time it had been held in Asia.
It is Algin though who showed the true spirit of what the Homeless World Cup means to the players from across the globe who take part each year. Born with HIV, Algin has shown incredible determination in proving that HIV is not the end but the beginning of a meaningful journey.
Algin shared his inspiring story with the Homeless World Cup Foundation of battling stigma, finding strength in sports, and chasing his dreams.
Algin discovered his HIV status as a teenager. "I've been living with HIV since I was a child, but I started to understand my status in middle school," he shares. This journey has not been without challenges, mainly dealing with overwhelming worry and staying consistent with therapy.
"It's not easy - there's often a sense of boredom—but my family, especially my mother, has been my greatest source of strength."
Stigma and discrimination have been part of Algin's life, but he chose to face them head-on. "I focused on improving myself, maintaining self-control, and actively participating in community activities to prove that my status is just a label that doesn't define my capabilities," Algin explains.
||Indonesia finished 4th at the Seoul 2024 Homeless World Cup Image: Anita Milas
Through education and sharing his story, he aims to dismantle misconceptions about HIV. "I want people to know that those living with HIV are no different from anyone else. We have the same rights to dream and achieve our goals," he says. His message to those struggling with fear or shame because of their HIV status is clear: "Never underestimate yourself. Everyone has their unique strengths."
Algin's motivation to be a part of the Seoul 2024 Homeless World Cup and play at the tournament in Korea’s capital, came from his desire to fight stigma. "I saw this global tournament and event as a powerful platform for advocacy. I participated in the selection process year after year until I finally made it in 2024." he says with pride.
Representing Indonesia in Seoul was an emotional and rewarding experience for Algin. "I felt moved and proud, it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," he shares. For Algin, every moment with the team has been precious.
"We come from different backgrounds but share the same goal: Indonesia without stigma."
Football has played an important role in shaping Algin's life. "Sports, especially football, have helped build my character, learning about discipline, hard work, and communication." Algin hopes to see more continuous support for the ODHIV (people living with HIV) community, recognizing the vital role that community support plays.
|Algin watching on as Indonesia compete on the pitch in Seoul where he played a huge part in the team’s 4th place finish in the Men’s competition. Image: Anita Milas
His message to the world is simple but powerful: "Support, don't punish."
Everyone has the right to dream and turn those dreams into reality and the Homeless World Cup and the 70 global inspirational Member Countries like Indonesia give people the chance to do just that.
For young people who may feel hopeless, Algin offers encouragement: "Don't be afraid to dream and keep honing your skills." He believes that sports can be a powerful tool for social change, especially in breaking down stigma.
"Sports touch all aspects of life. The solidarity I've felt within the team isn't just about charity, it's about standing together for a shared purpose."
Algin Mawani is proof that an HIV status does not define a person. Through football, he has found a new family within his team and a platform to inspire and educate others.
|Algin and the Indonesia team at the Seoul 2024 Homeless World Cup Opening Parade
Indonesia are represented by Rumah Cemara they provide a range of services for people with substance abuse problems as well as a comprehensive football programme. They operate through a peer-to-peer approach, with over 80% of their diverse staff living with HIV.
Support players like Algin and donate to the Homeless World Cup.
Images: Anita Milas