About Us
Integrated Network for Community Empowerment
INFOCEM is a community-based organization (CBO) established in 2020. Its primary goal is to promote the development and empowerment of poor and marginalized communities who are at risk of HIV/AIDS. INFOCEM is committed to bringing meaningful and sustainable change in the lives of socially excluded and vulnerable populations.
The organization works particularly for the empowerment of highly marginalized groups such as sex workers, gender and sexual minorities, transgender persons, and people living with HIV/AIDS. INFOCEM focuses on strengthening individual and organizational capacities, developing leadership, and encouraging communities to take collective action against social injustice and discrimination.
INFOCEM implements a wide range of programs including institutional strengthening, leadership development, rights advocacy, health services, children's education, empowerment, and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Through innovative community-based approaches, the organization identifies and addresses issues that are often overlooked or underrepresented.
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The Beginning of INFOCEM
Mahesh's Journey
Mahesh's close friend, Akash (name changed), was diagnosed as HIV positive during a health camp screening. The stigma, misinformation, and deep-rooted fears surrounding HIV in society completely altered the course of his life. As a result, Akash was rejected by his own family and was forced to live in isolation.
As his health condition worsened, Akash approached a nearby government hospital for treatment. However, after learning about his HIV status, hospital staff showed negligence in providing timely and appropriate medical care, often citing various reasons. He faced discrimination, humiliation, and stigmatizing behavior within the healthcare system.
In search of better treatment, Akash visited several private hospitals but the high cost of treatment made it unaffordable. These circumstances took a severe toll on his mental and physical health. With no consistent medical support, Akash eventually passed away in 2019.
This tragic incident had a profound impact on Mahesh. He realized that Akash's story was not an isolated case, but a reflection of a larger, systemic issue affecting many individuals in the district. He observed that key populations such as MSM, transgender persons, sex workers, and their children—especially those living with HIV—were frequently denied proper healthcare services and subjected to stigma and social exclusion.
These experiences led Mahesh to take a decisive step. Along with like-minded individuals and friends, he resolved to establish a community-based organization aimed at improving the health status of marginalized and high-risk communities, and ensuring their access to equal rights and essential services.
INFOCEM Officially Registered in 2020
A powerful commitment to justice, dignity, and equal opportunities
Vision, Mission & Values
Vision
Universal access to rights, health, legal and social services for communities marginalised on account of HIV status, gender and/or sexuality.
Mission
To increase access to rights, stigma-free and inclusive health/legal/educational/social services through community support, information dissemination, networking, operational research, advocacy, training and other assistance services.
Values
Responses rooted in science and human rights; that directly engage with affected communities; and address issues of marginalization based on gender, sexuality and other factors influencing equitable access to quality care.
What Makes Us Different
INFOCEM is unique due to its deep-rooted connection with the communities it serves. Being part of the same movements, the organization works closely with grassroots groups and community leaders to design and implement community-led initiatives and campaigns.
- Community-led initiatives and campaigns
- Strong partnerships with government and civil society
- Direct engagement with affected communities
- Technical support for grassroots organizations
- Linking local issues with broader social movements