Zay is a 15-yr old, nonbinary youth who is also asexual (ace.) Zay was interested in this interview to learn more about Pre-exposure Prophylaxis, and our PHRESH Interviewer is here to help! Zay is a well-known youth member here at The Attic, and while Zay is young- their lived experience has shown them the importance of safety.

Interviewer: Good afternoon! Thanks for doing this interview with me! Can you tell me your name, age & pronouns?

Zay: hello my name is Zay, my pronouns are any and all respectfully (he/she/they/etc,) I’m 15 years old.

Interviewer: So, are you currently sexually active?

Zay: No, I am a child of God.

Interviewer: Lol ok, is it safe to say that you are asexual?

Zay: Yes.

Interviewer: So how knowledgeable are you of safer sex options? We all know about condoms, of course…But what do you know about PrEP?

Zay: Not much, I just know it protects you from sexually transmitted diseases

Interviewer: PrEP actually only protects you from a potential HIV infection, it doesn’t protect you from other STI’s such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis.

Zay: That’s why the girls gotta stay safe out here in these streets

Interviewer: Correct, and that is why when using PrEP it is recommended to use condoms, so that you can protect yourself from all STIs.

Zay: That makes sense. So what should I do if I’m ready to be sexually active?

Interviewer: I would recommend that you always keep condoms with you. But if you are also interested in taking PrEP, I can connect you to a Community navigator, physician, or nurse practitioner who can assist you with that process.

Zay: that would help me out so much! I’m still gonna be Ace for now, but I am glad I have this extra knowledge…you know just in case

Interviewer: Knowledge is power, and in this case- protection! Thanks for interviewing with me today.

Zay: No problem, thank you!