The HIV awareness campaign “Forget AIDS” kicked off on December 1, 2025, in observance of World AIDS Day. The initiative by Self-Help-Express e. V. aims to bring the topic HIV/AIDS back into the public consciousness despite modern treatment options, reduce stigma, and motivate people to test regularly. Now the campaign enters its second phase: with the motto “Mirror, Mirror on the Wall — I Hold My HIV Test in My Hand” and a new script “the project tears down the last walls of shame and taboo,” the organizers announced.
After Season 1 of the outreach effort (tagline: “I know my HIV status and you?”) sought to break the silence surrounding HIV, the current push shifts to promoting HIV testing itself. Celebrity backing for the scripts comes from TV personalities Micaela Schäfer and Julian F. M. Stöckel, who are well known to a broad audience, among other appearances, from the Jungle Camp.
“From now on: enough with the hypocrisy — HIV self-tests are like brushing your teeth!” the message proclaims. Instead of “dusty educational brochures,” the campaign aims to depict a “high-gloss reality.”
30-Second Spot Aims to Grab Attention
In a new 30-second advertisement, Micaela Schäfer stands in an uncompromisingly pristine luxury bathroom, while Julian F. M. Stöckel—surrounded by extravagant glitter aesthetics—demonstrates their self-tests. The message is clear: to get tested isn’t a taboos breach but pure hygiene and self-care. The spot will run on television, in theaters, and across social media.
“Of course I test regularly. Darling, it’s like brushing your teeth. Simple, normal,” says the openly bisexual Julian F. M. Stöckel in the spot. And Micaela Schäfer adds, “Mirror, Mirror on the wall — I hold my HIV test in my hand.”
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At the same time, the viral challenge “#ANDTHEONEYOULO VE” is planned to generate attention on social media. Under the motto “Spread love, not fear,” it’s no longer about debate but about nominating, testing, and posting. Those interested can find the association’s website at vergissaidsnicht.com for more information and ways to support the cause.
