Edward Cowley, also known as internationally-renowned drag diva Buckwheat, is to leave his role at the New Zealand AIDS Foundation on 5th October, after nearly nine-and-a-half years of service to the Auckland LGBT community. One of the Foundation's most recognisable faces, he says that after nearly ten years in his respective roles working for the Pacific Peoples Project and Gay Men's Health, it's time for a change of direction. Edward began work for NZAF full time in 1998, as one of the first community educators on the then-fledgling Pacific Peoples Project. He was involved in producing several safe sex resources which are seen around the world, and remain in high demand. “I'm also particularly proud of the inroads we made into the churches, talking openly about HIV and sexuality in what can be a difficult environment,” he says. Working with people has been “the greatest satisfaction” of his time at NZAF, he says, as well as a commitment to changing attitudes and behaviour. “Change can take a long time, particularly in Pacific communities,” he says. “Working in the gay community is a big job too, but if you're going to succeed you can't think of it like that. You have to take it in small steps.” Once finishing up with NZAF, he'll be expanding his work with Pacific communities with motivational training and projects for the Ministry of Social Development - and of course, continuing to glam up the skies as his alter-ego, Buckwheat. “Last year's Pink Flight to Sydney Mardi Gras from Auckland was really successful, so there's now going to be a second one from Vancouver and San Francisco,” he says. “I'll be making two trips next year!” Edward says he will continue to be involved in the Foundation's work, including a key role in helping promote the upcoming Gay Men's Health Safe Sex Poster Boy campaign, and the Love Life 2 Fono for Pacific “third sex” communities. NZAF Executive Director Rachael Le Mesurier says Edward has been “a remarkable asset” during his time at the Foundation. “We have been so appreciative of the groundwork he laid in respect to our relationships with Pacific communities and as community liaison for Gay Men's Health. He has built great relationships with gay businesses and the broader Auckland gay community. “He is such a loved member of the Foundation and we will miss him enormously. We are delighted that he will be continuing the strong relationship he has with the Foundation and our safe sex message.” Ref: NZAF (Press Release)