Christopher Zacharie
Sexual Health Educator & Curriculum Developer
Credentials & Training
- Certified HIV Prevention Specialist
- B.S. Interdisciplinary Studies
- 13 Years Teaching Experience
- Curriculum Designer
Professional Bio
Christopher Zacharie is a sexual health educator, curriculum developer, and certified HIV Prevention Specialist dedicated to reframing sexual health education as a positive and empowering experience. As the creator of The HARNESS Project, he draws on over a decade of experience as a classroom teacher and his specialized training in HIV/STI prevention to create educational tools that are accessible, non-judgmental, and grounded in real-world application.
With a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies and 13 years of experience as a third-grade teacher, Christopher possesses a deep understanding of curriculum design, pedagogy, and how to make complex information engaging and understandable. This foundation in education, combined with his work as an HIV Prevention Specialist, allows him to bridge the gap between clinical health education and emotionally resonant, practical learning.
The Journey to HARNESS
Christopher's work is informed by lived experience and professional expertise. His approach to sexual health education moves beyond fear-based messaging to center empowerment, autonomy, and harm reduction. He believes that education should meet people where they are—without judgment, shame, or assumptions—and equip them with the knowledge and confidence to make informed choices about their bodies and relationships.
Through The HARNESS Project, Christopher has developed a comprehensive ecosystem of educational tools including an interactive web app, the book "Fearless, Aware, and Protected," a complete facilitator's curriculum, visual toolkits, and workshops. His signature MATCH Framework (Medications, Awareness, Tools, Communication, Habits) provides a holistic approach to SafER sex that acknowledges the complexity of real-life decision-making.
Teaching Philosophy
Christopher's teaching philosophy is rooted in several core principles:
- Sex-Positive Education: Sexual health education should celebrate pleasure, connection, and autonomy—not just focus on risks and consequences.
- Harm Reduction Over Abstinence: Meet people where they are with practical strategies that reduce harm, rather than demanding perfection.
- Visual and Metaphorical Learning: Complex topics become accessible through powerful visuals, metaphors, and storytelling that engage both heart and mind.
- Centering Marginalized Communities: LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and those most impacted by HIV/STIs deserve education that honors their experiences.
- Building Confidence Through Knowledge: Information is empowerment. When people understand their options, they can advocate for themselves and their partners.