Janine Brignola is a nationally recognized activist, speaker, writer, and systems disruptor whose work spans over two decades of lived experience and more than 12 years of visible, unapologetic advocacy since being diagnosed with HIV. What began as a fight for her own survival quickly became a lifelong mission to amplify the voices of those too often silenced—especially women, mothers, and communities marginalized by systemic stigma.
She has spoken at major conferences across the U.S. and been featured in articles internationally, sharing stages with leaders and changemakers while challenging institutions to center lived experience in policy and practice. Janine has been featured as a keynote speaker, panelist, and trainer at colleges, universities, public health summits, and advocacy events—including her work with Hope's Voice, on the Board of Directors for the ADAP Advocacy Association in Washington, D.C, and the South Texas Health Equity Board.
Janine currently serves on the Duke Collaborative Community Council, where she helps shape research and public health initiatives through a community-driven, equity-centered lens. Known by many as "Wonder Woman," her strength lies in her unshakable commitment to carrying the torch for others—often before they even realize they're worthy of one. Whether through public speaking, blogging, consulting, or curriculum development, her work consistently centers healing, justice, and transformational change.
Her personal mantra says it all: "It is both a privilege and a responsibility to serve — past, present, future generations and the planet herself. Just as those before me paved the way, it is my honor to ensure the path remains open and stronger for those who come after."
Today, Janine lives in Durham, NC, where she works as a Prevention Training Specialist, consults on systems change and inclusion initiatives, and continues to write, speak, and advocate. She's a recurring contributor to A Girl Like Me via The Well Project, and her voice has been featured across platforms including MTV's Staying Alive Campaign. She just copyrighted her first written work "The Puppetized Framework".
Above all, her proudest title is "Mom." Her son is her greatest teacher, daily reminder of purpose, and the inspiration behind everything she does.
Why Janine wants to be part of A Girl Like Me: Blogging for A Girl Like Me is not just a contribution—it's a return home. After stepping away from the frontlines of advocacy to navigate personal and professional transitions, I'm stepping back into the light with renewed purpose. My voice is my tool, my story is my offering, and my mission is clear: I want to be the reminder, for others as well as myself, that even in silence, strength still breathes—and that healing begins the moment we feel less alone.
