We recently caught up with PWN Greater Houston Area (GHA) chapter members Deborah Somoye and Selena Harbor to learn about their chapter’s mission, function, current projects, and how allies can support it. This month, we shine the Organizing Spotlight on this chapter’s fabulous work!


Selena Harbor is a proud “Houstonian,” and joined the GHA chapter in 2017, serving currently as its Community Outreach Coordinator. Deborah Somoye, originally from Nigeria and presently living in Houston, joined the GHA chapter in 2018. Last year, Deborah strengthened her leadership and commitment to the chapter and now serves as its Secretary. 

The mission of the PWN-GHA chapter is to prepare and involve women living with HIV, in all their intersecting identities, including gender and sexual expression, in all aspects of policy and decision-making that affect our lives. Deborah believes, “The mission statement of PWN is a driving force that represents the work I do in the chapter and as a woman.” According to Selena, the main function of the PWN-GHA chapter is to create leaders among women living with HIV in the Houston area, and share tools for women and HIV advocates, by mobilizing for strategic campaigns to change policies. 

How are you all working toward your mission together?

PWN-GHA member welcoming folks to their three day training in June 2022

Selena Harbor: In the GHA chapter we are launching a campaign called GOTV (get out to vote) and the theme is ”Fighting Suppression, Liberating Texas 2022!” This is a year-long campaign, and included a 3 day leadership training to prepare chapter members by educating on how voting suppression happens in Texas, and what PWN chapter members can do to alleviate the burden and encourage Houstonians to exercise their right through the voter engagement work. 

Deborah Somoye: The integrated voter engagement campaign is key to the work we do in the GHA chapter, it is our mission [in physical form]. 

Are there any current programs or projects we should be aware of?

Deborah Somoye: [In addition to] the integrated voter engagement program, we are working to expand our Texas Strike Force team. 

The PWN Texas Strike Force is a statewide, cross-movement coalition of individuals and organizations ready to take action on behalf of marginalized communities and change the face of politics in Texas. Texas residents’ interested in making an impact in the legislative session to stop HIV criminalization laws, protect reproductive rights, and defend the LGBTQIA community can join the Texas Strike Force here.

PWN-GHA members taking a picture break from assembling backpacks and school supplies for their Backpack Drive for Change in August 2022.


How can members and allies support the GHA chapter?

Deborah knows that allyship is important to advancing the mission and function of the GHA chapter, “to achieve more; we hope to see more members and allies bring in fresh ideas and more commitments. Being part of PWN has given me a voice and sisterhood of strong women.”

If you are a woman or person of trans experience living with HIV in the Houston area and are interested in joining or connecting with the GHA chapter, click here.

Thank you so much Deborah and Selena for your time and for sharing the amazing work that PWN-GHA has been doing!