Fashion is a powerful vehicle to send a message, and “HIV Unwrapped,” the global initiative reigniting critical conversations focused on eliminating HIV stigma, did just that through a runway show that took place on the Saturday of New York Fashion Week.

Amongst a backdrop of select AIDS Memorial Quilt panels, the event and runway show featured a world-first collaboration between emerging student designers from Parsons School of Design and cutting-edge HIV scientists. Tanner Fletcher, alumnus of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, served as the mentors to the designers.

“We loved getting to know this group of students and fellow designers, hearing about their designs, their personal stories and connecting over our shared fashion interests,” said the Tanner Fletcher team. “On top of that, we enjoyed getting to know more about this organization and being a part of an inspiring project.”

Models and guests included activist and actor of Hamilton Javier Muñoz, Demetre Daskalakis (former director of CDC’s Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases), singers Mary Gibson and Mila Jam, host of Taxi TV, John Friia, and more.

“HIV Unwrapped” is a global storytelling initiative transforming public health narratives through fashion, creativity, and media. Through immersive design collaborations and curated programming, the platform champions the scientists, advocates, and individuals rewriting the future of HIV.

Following international editions in Australia, Rwanda, and the UK, the U.S. edition is sponsored by Gilead Sciences, and presented in partnership with GLAAD, ASHM, and EqualPride with additional support from the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA).

“HIV Unwrapped” will stream as a +Life original broadcast special on November 30, timed to World AIDS Day (Dec. 1) on Hulu. The special will feature exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the conception and production of featured garments, previous global iterations, and interviews with up-and-coming designers and groundbreaking scientists.