Tshewang Nidup, commonly known as the ‘CONDOM MAN’, was awarded the SAARC Champion Award 2012 for his efforts to raise awareness on HIV/AIDS, today.
He received the award in Thimphu. The father of three described the moment as being “beyond his expectations”.
Tshewang is, regularly, seen driving a mobile van covered with messages on HIV/AIDS, and distributing condoms.
An associate lecturer with the Royal Institute of Health Sciences, he began his journey as the Condom Man in 2007.
Tshewang says the name Condom Man is a form of advocacy, “I like it when people call me Condom Man instead of my real name. Condom, this word makes people question: what is the use of a condom? Why do we need to talk about it? This name sends a message to every individual.”
In five years, Tshewang has distributed over a hundred thousand condoms. In 2011, he also received an award of appreciation, during World AIDS Day from the Health Ministry.
