Rural Voices Driving Change: The Impact of Aya Contigo on Rural Sexual and Reproductive Health
- Roxana Vivas
- Oct 22
- 3 min read
(Series 1 – Stories of Transformation from the Ground)
In one of the most remote corners of Venezuela—where internet access is scarce and silence still surrounds conversations on rural sexual and reproductive health (SRH)—a powerful network of transformation is thriving.
This four-part blog series amplifies the rural voices leading change every day, ensuring access to sexual and reproductive health education for all.
In this first story, we share the experience of Ángel Véliz, a facilitator in rural sexual and reproductive health and gender-based violence prevention at Fundación Servyr. From his work in rural communities, Ángel reveals how Aya Contigo has not only transformed the local information landscape but also touched lives, reshaping how people understand their sexual and reproductive rights.
Education and Companionship in Rural Health Settings
Working in rural communities means much more than sharing information—it means listening, adapting, and building trust where access is limited.
Ángel’s work begins with community conversations, workshops, and film forums, but extends far beyond: to one-on-one support, where adolescents and young people find a friendly, reliable, and safe voice talking to them about rights, care, and bodily autonomy.
In a context marked by power outages, low connectivity, and social tensions, accessing accurate information on rural sexual and reproductive health can be an act of resistance.
When Aya Contigo arrived, it was a turning point—a digital tool adapted to complex realities, offering not only guidance but also companionship, emotional support, and clarity at times when fear and misinformation prevail.
Breaking the Silence: Talking About SRH Without Fear
One of the most powerful moments Ángel recalls happened in Ribero Municipality, during a session with health students.
As the discussion turned to reproductive autonomy, the group fell silent. Then came a painful truth: the recent death of a young woman following a clandestine abortion. The moment sparked a collective reflection on the dangers of criminalization and the urgent need for safe, evidence-based information.
“Aya Contigo was created to prevent, to inform without criminalizing,” Ángel explains.
After that session, what began as shock turned into motivation—the group committed to exploring the app and continuing the dialogue in future meetings.
Evolving Perspectives, Empowered Rural Communities
For Ángel, Aya Contigo has not only transformed communities—it has transformed him. It helped him expand his perspective, overcome fear, and feel part of a collective movement for social change in rural SRHR.
With the launch of Aya Contigo 2.0, new possibilities are emerging—such as interactive forums where users can share experiences, learn together, and build knowledge collectively.
Technology becomes a tool for empathy, empowerment, and health equity.
Aya as a Bridge of Trust in Rural Sexual and Reproductive Health
Aya Contigo has become much more than a digital tool—it’s a virtual companion, a guide through difficult decisions, and a symbol of care in action.
Through voices like Ángel’s, we’re reminded that rural SRH access is not an abstract goal—it’s a matter of justice, safety, and dignity.
Across every rural community, every school, and every organization, stories like this one remind us why it’s urgent to keep talking, creating, and accompanying.
By Roxana Vivas, Venezuela Country Lead, Vitala Global Based on an interview with Ángel Véliz, SRHR and Gender-Based Violence Facilitator, Fundación Servyr.