A central focus of Maureen’s work is improving access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care for marginalized communities, including people who use drugs, sex workers, and queer and trans individuals. Her advocacy spans campaigns for essential HIV and TB services, harm reduction programs, and gender-affirming care. Maureen has also played a key role in developing and scaling up community-led monitoring systems, including Ritshidze in South Africa—the world’s largest community-led monitoring initiative. With a background in law, Maureen transitioned to grassroots activism to address the systemic inequalities she witnessed in her communities. Her early career included serving as an AVAC fellow, collaborating with people living with HIV and NGOs to expand access to treatment. Her impactful work earned her recognition in POZ 100 magazine as one of the most effective AIDS activists of 2014.

Maureen’s commitment to equity and inclusion has led her to become an Atlantic Fellow, focusing on the inequalities faced by key populations. She has also served as a member of the UNAIDS Advisory Group to the Executive Director and co-chaired a breakout group on key populations, further amplifying the voices of those most affected by HIV and systemic marginalization. Through her tireless advocacy, Maureen continues to drive transformative change, ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight for health equity and human rights.