JENNIFER

Jennifer, as always, we are kicking off our interview by asking “who are you?”

Hello, I’m Richard Keldoulis, though you might know me better as Jennifer Hopelezz, the Amsterdam drag queen. Originally from Sydney, Australia, I’ve proudly called Amsterdam my home for over three decades. I am presently co-owner of Club Church and Sauna NZ in Amsterdam.

Beyond my involvement in the nightlife scene, I am deeply passionate about HIV activism. For the past eight years, I have volunteered for the PrEPnu group, advocating for broad access to PrEP in The Netherlands. It’s an essential cause close to my heart.

I use my drag alter ego Jennifer in my activist work as she gives me a much larger stage to get my message across. On a personal note, my partner Elard and I have been happily married for an incredible 30 years. Together, we share not only our life but also our businesses and passions. It’s been an exciting journey filled with love and support.

What makes you unique and how do you share this with others?

I think what is unique about me is that I survived – more than 20 years of doing drag and 30 years involved in the Amsterdam LGBTQ+ scene! I enjoy organizing, and I think that is probably what made us successful in the beginning. We organized many queer parties and festivals and that experience allowed us to start up our two businesses.

I love sharing my knowledge, especially mentoring younger people and that’s probably why I have also created this gigantic drag house called the House of Hopelezz with more than 30 active drag artists who have also taken up my passion of combining art and activism.

How long and in what way you have been personally affected by HIV?

My personal journey with HIV has spanned almost 4 decades, and it has had a profound impact on my life in various ways. I came out in the mid-80s, just as the AIDS epidemic was making its presence felt in Australia, where I grew up. So HIV and its consequences have always been intertwined with my personal experiences and my approach to sexuality. Sadly my first boyfriend succumbed to AIDS in 1991, which deeply affected me. Since then, I have had many friends who are HIV positive, and their experiences have further sensitized me to the challenges and struggles faced by those living with the virus.

Given my businesses’ nature as gay sex-on-premise venues, I recognized the critical importance of promoting safe sex practices from the very outset. So we always actively engaged in safe sex education and collaborated closely with health departments on various campaigns to raise awareness about HIV prevention. Im proud to say that both our venues have always supplied unlimited free condoms for all our guests, which is unique in Holland.

Throughout the years, we’ve worked alongside major organizations in the Netherlands dedicated to advocating for safer sex practices and I have spoken at many HIV conferences. Our House of Hopelezz even hosted The International Aids Conference Global Village in both 2018 and 2020.

What motivates you to share your story about how you are affected by HIV?

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of knowing and supporting many friends, colleagues, and staff members who live with HIV. Witnessing their resilience and the challenges they face due to stigma and shame has deeply impacted me.

In my opinion, it’s crucial to keep open conversations about HIV ongoing and break down the misconceptions surrounding it. As part of the queer community, particularly in running LGBTQ+ venues, festivals, and parties, I believe we have a responsibility to place HIV activism at the forefront of our efforts. Some may feel hesitant to address HIV in such settings, but I believe it’s precisely where we should engage in these discussions and create awareness.

We cannot pretend HIV doesn’t exist or hope it will go away on its own. It’s a reality we must face and address with compassion and understanding. Our duty extends to educating the younger generation and standing up against the stigma faced by those living with HIV. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, we can make a positive difference and contribute to a more compassionate society for everyone.

Why is it important for other people to hear your story?

All of us involved in the LGBTQ+ community, especially those earning a living within it, have a role to play in fighting HIV. Whether it’s through educating our community or combating ignorance and stigma, each one of us can make a difference.Whatever role we take on, big or small, it can make a difference. Together, we can create a more informed, compassionate, and supportive community that stands strong against HIV.

Do you have a life motto? Could you share one inspiring quote with us?

My life motto? Well, always wear fresh underwear for a start! Ha ha ha! But on a serious note, I truly believe that every one of us can make a difference. It doesn’t matter if it’s among our group of friends, in our community or our own city  – we all have the power to influence others and make things better.