World AIDS Day Ball at the Downtown Cultural Arts Center

As a student, there is nothing I love more than a SIDE QUEST. This time, going downtown for the World AIDS Day Ball felt like stepping into a completely different part of Baltimore. Hosted by Maryland Safe Haven at the Downtown Cultural Arts Center, the night immediately felt very welcoming and rooted in community rather than feeling like a typical formal event.

The energy in the room was something I noticed right away. People were dressed confidently, and the atmosphere felt alive. This wasn’t a “ball” in the traditional sense, but one connected to LGBTQ+ ballroom culture, where performance and self-expression are central. Throughout the night there were performances that crowd was fully involved in, cheering people on and reacting in real time. It felt like a space where everyone was encouraged to show up as themselves.

                                                   

The night felt especially meaningful to me because my posters for the “Why She PrEPs” ad contest were displayed during the event. I was grateful to win the contest and receive the $500 prize, but seeing my work shown in a ballroom space made it feel personal in a way I didn’t expect. Knowing the posters were part of an event focused on HIV awareness and prevention made the work feel connected to real people and experiences, not just a design project.

Of course, after the event, I put my prize money to good use and stopped by Rod Dee Thai, which is open until 2 a.m. After such an emotional and high-energy night, grabbing spring rolls and pad thai felt like the perfect way to wind down. Sitting there late at night, still processing everything from the ball, made the whole experience feel even more real. It was a small moment, but it tied the night back into everyday Baltimore life in a way I really appreciated.